Local News Archives

Volkswagen Malaysia Launches CNY Campaign with Exclusive Deals

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has kicked off its Chinese New Year campaign, featuring a range of enticing deals across its entire model lineup. Running until the 29th of February, the campaign presents substantial savings of up to RM18,888 on various Volkswagen models, including the Golf GTI, Tiguan Allspace range, and the Arteon R-Line.

Here are the details of the savings offered during the campaign:

Tiguan Allspace Life (IQ.Drive): RM2,888 savings, priced at RM174,102
Tiguan Allspace Elegance (IQ.Drive): RM8,888 savings, priced at RM197,102
Tiguan Allspace R-Line (IQ.Drive): RM8,888 savings, priced at RM250,102
Arteon R-Line (IQ.Drive): RM18,888 savings, priced at RM281,102
Golf GTI (IQ.Drive): RM3,888 savings, priced at RM249,102

As part of the campaign, Volkswagen is offering a comprehensive ownership package for all its models. This includes 5 years of free maintenance, a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, and 5 years of roadside assistance. The Chinese New Year campaign not only brings exclusive savings but also enhances the overall ownership experience for Volkswagen customers.

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Chery Eco Run 2024 Draws Over 3,400 Runners

In a remarkable turnout, more than 3,400 runners participated in the inaugural Chery Eco Run 2024, themed ‘A New Journey To A New Green Life.’ The fun run event kicked off at Dataran Wawasan in Putrajaya and featured two categories: the 5KM and a more challenging 10KM category for seasoned runners.

YB Senator Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), flagged off the 10km category runners alongside Chery Malaysia President Leo Chen. Notably, Tengku Zafrul actively participated in the run. The 5km category runners were flagged off by MITI Secretary-General Dato’ Hairil Yahri Yaacob.

Chery Malaysia President Leo Chen highlighted the significance of the Chery Eco Run, stating, “Chery Eco Run serves as a significant stepping stone for us as we stride towards a future where electric vehicles and green technology seamlessly integrate with today’s active lifestyle, fostering a healthier living environment.”

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Severe Flooding Paralyses Kota Tinggi City Centre

The heart of Kota Tinggi ground to a halt as floodwaters, rising over a meter, inundated the city centre. The situation was intensified due to a collision between the floods and the high tide phenomenon.

Semanggar Road leading to Jalan Tun Habab Secondary School has become impassable, submerged by swift-flowing water. Jalan Tun Sri Lanang, covering a distance of 650 meters, is closed for all vehicles with water levels reaching 0.6 meters.

A survey conducted by Utusan Malaysia in the city’s commercial district revealed water levels between one to 1.5 meters. Numerous routes, including Jalan Indah, Jalan Jaafar, Jalan Niaga Utama, Jalan Johor near Arked Mara, Taman Kota Mas, and Jalan Tambatan, have been severely affected.

The Bandar Religious School and Bandar National School are also grappling with rising waters, adding to the distress in the region.

Chief of Kota Tinggi District Police, Superintendent Hussin Zamora, reported that 112 civilians trapped by the sudden rise in water from 9 pm to 4 am were successfully rescued. Overcoming initial difficulties as victims were initially hesitant to move, the rescue agencies demonstrated professionalism, evacuating all trapped individuals to nearby relocation centres.

Superintendent Hussin Zamora urged the public to heed rescue agency instructions during flood situations, emphasising the need for cooperation for a safe and efficient evacuation.

In response to the crisis, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) announced the shutdown of electricity supply in 25 areas in Kota Tinggi for the safety of affected residents. The situation remains tense, with authorities and rescue agencies working diligently to manage the aftermath of the flood and ensure the well-being of the community.

Iconic MG Brand Set To Return to Malaysia In Q1 Of This Year

Depending on your age, you may or may not have heard of the MG brand. It is widely regarded as one of the most iconic automotive brands and has been around since the 1920s.

The British marque, arguably as iconic as Jaguar, was once known for its lightweight open-top two-wheel sports cars, and is one of a must have brand for any self-respecting classic car collector.

MG may be a classic brand and it was in Malaysia for many years even before independence, but these days the brand is no longer the same as what we know it.

MG is now owned by Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), a Chinese state owned company, and has a strong presence in many markets. However, despite its popularity in markets such as Thailand, it has been absent from Malaysia.

Not for long though.

There have been spyshots of some EV models testing in Malaysia, and there are growing rumours that the brand is making a strong comeback into our market, and soon! (more…)

Public Calls for Lemon Law in Malaysia Gain Momentum

A strong public demand for the implementation of a Lemon Law in Malaysia has surfaced, driven by a recent survey by Sinar and concerns regarding consumer rights in the automotive industry. The proposed law, already in place in several countries, aims to protect car buyers from financial burdens arising from faulty vehicles within the warranty period.

According to a report by Sinar Daily, Dr Mohd Shahremy Ikmal Shahbudin, a senior lecturer at Universiti Sains Malaysia, emphasised the comprehensive protection the law offers to vehicle buyers, ensuring their long-term use satisfaction. He noted that such laws incentivise manufacturers to continually enhance the quality and productivity of their products.

Hakshey Kumar Jeya Brakash, a private sector employee, highlighted the importance of Lemon Law in making consumers aware of their rights and protecting them from unscrupulous sellers. The law would enable consumers to receive equivalent replacement vehicles or refunds if the product is damaged within the warranty period.

Nurain Hafizah Mohamed, a clerk, advocated for Malaysia to follow the lead of countries like Singapore, the Philippines, South Korea, China, and Japan, which have successfully implemented Lemon Laws. She pointed to recent issues, such as the Perodua Bezza case, as instances where consumer rights need stronger protection and urged Malaysian authorities to implement the law promptly.

Perodua Agrees To Repurchase ‘Bezza Gula’ At Full Price

Following a publicised complaint by a clerk in Segamat, Nagakanni Subramaniam, about issues with her Perodua Bezza, the car manufacturer, Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua), has agreed to repurchase the car at its full price. Nagakanni, who purchased the car on October 17 from a Segamat dealership, had previously expressed dissatisfaction on social media, highlighting that she was still required to make monthly payments despite the car being stranded at the service centre due to damages.

In response, Perodua issued a statement explaining that the engine damage was caused by contaminants like sugar in the engine compartment. However, the company assured that they prioritised resolving the issue and denied claims that no action was taken to address the matter.

Now, with Perodua’s decision to repurchase the Bezza at its full price, Nagakanni no longer has to make monthly payments and previous payments will be refunded. Perodua has also given her the option to purchase a second car at the same monthly loan rate or decline the offer and choose a different car, with a seven-day window to make a decision. Nagakanni expressed gratitude for Perodua’s decision and also thanked netizens for their significant support in asserting her rights as a consumer. The post garnered positive reactions from satisfied netizens who applauded the unity displayed by the community in supporting Nagakanni.

Jaecoo J8 Showcased In Malaysia, Launch Expected in October 2024

Jaecoo Malaysia showcased the Jaecoo J8 alongside the Jaecoo J7. The J8 was revealed in Doha, Qatar, in October last year in both two- and three-row seating configurations, depending on the market.

This SUV measures at 4,820mm in length, 1,699mm in height, and 1,930 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,820mm, making it slightly larger than the J7.

Under the hood, the J8 packs a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine producing 245hp and 385Nm of torque. This powerplant is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and buyers can choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive options.

While the previewed unit was a left-hand drive and not indicative of the model for the Malaysian market, it still showcased several features. Notable elements include 20-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, dual 12.3-inch displays for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, dual-zone climate control with rear vents, and controls, along with a head-up display.

The interior revealed leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a 14-speaker Sony sound system, air-cooled wireless charging, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, and a powered tailgate. While the previewed unit was configured for five seats, the J8 is available with six or seven seats.

However, the J8 will be launched much later this year as we still await the official launch of the J7 which is expected to be sometime in March.

Nissan Unveils the Stylish 2024 Almera KURO (Black) Edition

Nissan is ushering in the new year with sophistication as it unveils the enhanced Nissan Almera KURO (Black) Edition. Boasting elevated aesthetics that radiate sporty poise, the 2024 model introduces the trendy Glacier Grey exterior body colour.

The Nissan Almera KURO (Black) Edition sets the stage with factory-fitted styling enhancements, featuring gloss black front grille cladding and black alloy rims as standard equipment across all three Almera variants. Elevating the stealthy theme, customers can opt for either the KURO Package or the KURO GT Package, both significantly enhancing the vehicle’s appearance.

The KURO Package builds on the Almera Turbo’s aerokit developed exclusively by TOMEI Japan, incorporating elements such as a Gloss Black Front Bumper Spoiler, Gloss Black Rear Bumper Spoilers, Gloss Black Side Skirts, and Gloss Black Boot Lid Spoiler. The package also includes practical accessories like ICE Cool Tinting Film, Sport Pedals, Kicking Plate, Door Handle Protector, and Door Visor.

For enthusiasts seeking the ultimate styling, the KURO GT Package takes it up a notch by adding the distinctive TOMEI GT Wing and 16-inch IMPUL Racing alloy rims, providing a complete stealth treatment.

Under the hood, the Nissan Almera Turbo is powered by technological innovations, including Nissan Intelligent Mobility and Nissan Safety Shield 360 initiatives. It features Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) and Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking (IFEB) as standard, with the top VLT grade adding Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Intelligent Around View Monitor (IAVM) 360° camera with Moving Object Detection (IMOD).

Achieving an impressive fuel economy rating of 18.4km per litre, the Almera Turbo boasts a turbocharged engine using Mirror Bore Coating technology from the iconic R35 Nissan GT-R. Paired with the ultra-efficient XTRONIC Continuously Variable Transmission with D-Step Logic and Sport Mode, the Almera Turbo delivers exceptional performance.

Inside, the Almera Turbo features a contemporary instrument panel design inspired by a ‘Gliding Wing,’ complemented by premium materials, a flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel, and a 7-inch semi-digital meter cluster. The cabin provides comfort and connectivity with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display supporting Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM.

The new Nissan Almera KURO (Black) Edition starts at RM83,888, with a launch promotion offering RM1,000 for the KURO Package and RM1,500 for the limited edition KURO GT Package (limited to 300 vehicle sets). Additionally, low monthly instalments starting from RM658 are available. The Almera KURO (Black) Edition is now available for viewing and test drives at all Nissan showrooms nationwide.

Jaecoo J7 Closer To Launch: What We Know About It So Far

Jaecoo, a brand under Chery, has just shown us its premium urban off-road SUV, the J7. The brand is making its mark in the fiercely competitive automotive market with its “Born Global” philosophy, emphasising its commitment to global performance and standards.

The J7 has dimensions of 4,500mm in length, 1,865mm in width, and 1,680mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,672mm, making it slightly smaller than the third-generation Range Rover Sport. It also features 19-inch Aurora-inspired aluminium alloy wheels.

Promoted as an outstanding urban off-road SUV in the premium category, the J7 boasts a ground clearance of 200 mm, an approach angle of 21 degrees, a departure angle of 29 degrees and a wading depth capability of 600mm. For those prioritising practicality, the J7 offers a generous boot space measuring 412 litres, a maximum towing capacity of 1,300kg, and a roof load capacity of 75kg.

The available features encompass LED headlamps, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment touchscreen measuring 14.8 inches, wireless compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a head-up display, a hands-free powered tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, rear air-conditioning vents, a powered driver’s seat, front seats with heating and ventilation. The transmission shifter has an avant-garde fighter-inspired design. It also has a safety provision of up to 10 airbags, and an extensive array of advanced driver assistance systems such as:

AEB: Automatic Emergency Braking
FCW: Front Collision Warning
LDW: Lane Departure Warning
LDP: Lane Departure Prevention
ELK: Emergency Lane Keeping
IES: Intelligent Evasion System
CSA: Curve Speed Assistance
DAI: Departure Ahead Inform
ACC: Adaptive Cruise Control
IHC: Intelligent Headlamp Control
TJA: Traffic Jam Assist
540° Panoramic Camera
Parking Assistance
RCW: Rear Collision Warning
RCTA: Rear Cross Traffic Alert
RCTB: Rear Cross Traffic Braking
BSD: Blind Spot Detection
LCA: Lane Changing Assistance
DOW: Door Opening Warning

The heart of the J7 is a 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine with 194hp and 290Nm of torque. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and an intelligent 4WD system, the J7 achieves a 0-100km/h acceleration in eight seconds. According to WLTP ratings, the fuel consumption stands at 7.48 litres per 100km.

More information such as pricing and packages will be available soon during the official launch in the first-half of 2024.

Rawang KTM Station Construction Mishap: A Costly Lesson in Negligence

In a startling incident on December 12, 2023, negligence by contractors involved in the multi-level parking project at Rawang Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) station resulted in losses exceeding RM2.4 million. The aftermath saw a construction crane collapsing on the track between Rawang and Kuang, triggering widespread disruptions that affected more than 20,000 train passengers.

Contractor Warnings and Freezing of Approvals

According to NST, transport minister Anthony Loke disclosed that KTMB had issued warnings to the contractors, leading to the freezing of approvals to the Public Works Department (JKR) and Railway Assets Corp (RAC) due to unauthorized construction work near KTMB’s operational track. The revelation sheds light on a disregard for safety protocols that could have averted the catastrophic incident.

The freezing of approvals indicates a systemic failure in oversight and raises questions about the efficacy of regulatory checks in preventing unauthorised construction activities.

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Local News

Volkswagen Malaysia Launches CNY Campaign with Exclusive Deals

Chery Eco Run 2024 Draws Over 3,400 Runners

Severe Flooding Paralyses Kota Tinggi City Centre

Iconic MG Brand Set To Return to Malaysia In Q1 Of This Year

Public Calls for Lemon Law in Malaysia Gain Momentum

Perodua Agrees To Repurchase ‘Bezza Gula’ At Full Price

Jaecoo J8 Showcased In Malaysia, Launch Expected in October 2024

Nissan Unveils the Stylish 2024 Almera KURO (Black) Edition

Jaecoo J7 Closer To Launch: What We Know About It So Far

Rawang KTM Station Construction Mishap: A Costly Lesson in Negligence

Volkswagen Malaysia Launches CNY Campaign with Exclusive Deals

Chery Eco Run 2024 Draws Over 3,400 Runners

Severe Flooding Paralyses Kota Tinggi City Centre

Iconic MG Brand Set To Return to Malaysia In Q1 Of This Year

Public Calls for Lemon Law in Malaysia Gain Momentum

Perodua Agrees To Repurchase ‘Bezza Gula’ At Full Price

Jaecoo J8 Showcased In Malaysia, Launch Expected in October 2024

Nissan Unveils the Stylish 2024 Almera KURO (Black) Edition

Jaecoo J7 Closer To Launch: What We Know About It So Far

Rawang KTM Station Construction Mishap: A Costly Lesson in Negligence

Archive

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East Coast Rail Line (ECRL) Progress Update: Phase One and Two Completion Dates Announced

Hyundai’s Remarkable Milestone: 100 Million Cars Produced, With Eyes on the Next 100 Million

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