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Proton X50 to Come Standard with Touch ‘n Go RFID in New Mobility Partnership

Proton has entered into a strategic partnership with Touch ‘n Go Sdn. Bhd. to equip every unit of its newly launched Proton X50 with built-in RFID technology. The collaboration, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marks a major step forward in Malaysia’s push towards a more connected mobility ecosystem.

Under the agreement, each Proton X50 will roll off the production line already fitted with a Touch ‘n Go RFID tag. This integration will give drivers immediate access to Malaysia’s growing network of RFID-enabled highways, eliminating the need for separate installation and promising greater convenience for motorists.

The MoU signing took place at Proton’s Centre of Excellence headquarters in Shah Alam. Proton Edar was represented by Deputy Chief Executive Officer Zhang Qiang, while Touch ‘n Go Sdn. Bhd. was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Praba Sangarajoo. Witnesses included Ong Chee Wooi, Head of Sales at Proton Edar, and Jarrod Wong, Sales Director at Touch ‘n Go.

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Proton Rides Sales Surge with Strong July Performance

Proton has entered the second half of 2025 on a high note, recording a marked rebound in sales as the Malaysian car market recovered from a sluggish June. The national automaker registered 13,518 units sold in July, a 22.1 per cent increase over the previous month, bringing its year-to-date total to 85,674 units. This performance has secured Proton second place in the national sales rankings.

The company’s market share for July is estimated at 19.2 per cent, with the year-to-date figure standing at 19.3 per cent – an improvement of 0.6 percentage points compared with the full-year share of 18.7 per cent achieved in 2024, a record-breaking year for the Malaysian automotive industry. The Total Industry Volume for July is projected at 70,545 units, representing a 28.7 per cent rise from June and ranking as the second-highest monthly figure for 2025.

The newly launched Proton X50 was a major driver of last month’s growth. Introduced on 24 July, the B-segment SUV saw 999 units delivered in its first week, contributing to a total of 2,068 units for the month – the third time this year the model has surpassed the 2,000-unit mark.

With an updated exterior, enhanced interior, new intelligent features, and a marketing push aimed at younger buyers, the X50 has quickly gained momentum both online and in showrooms. Production is expected to reach 5,000 units by the end of August, with bookings approaching five figures, setting the stage for another strong month ahead.

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Johor Pushes for Tougher Laws on Foreign Vehicles Using Subsidised Fuel

The Johor state government has renewed calls for the federal administration to tighten existing laws to enable direct action against owners of foreign-registered vehicles caught purchasing subsidised RON95 petrol.

According to NST, Johor’s Investment, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources executive committee chairman, Lee Ting Han, stated that the proposal had been put forward to the federal government four months ago. He explained that under current regulations, enforcement measures can only be taken against petrol station operators, leaving foreign motorists who breach the rules largely untouched by legal consequences.

Lee stated that the state government intends to persist in lobbying for an amendment that would grant officers from the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry the authority to penalise offenders directly. He stressed that such changes are necessary to protect national resources and ensure compliance with Malaysian law.

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Over 1,000 High-Risk Road Areas Identified for Urgent Safety Upgrades

The Ministry of Public Works (KKR) has identified more than 1,000 localities across the country as high-risk areas, or “black spots”, requiring immediate infrastructure and road safety improvements.

According to Harian Metro, Minister Datuk Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the majority of these areas are located along federal roads and are characterised by sharp bends, insufficient lighting, and damaged road surfaces. He confirmed that the government is prioritising remedial works to address these hazards.

As part of ongoing measures to improve safety in accident-prone zones, 300 solar-powered street lights have recently been installed along the Gerik-Jeli East-West Highway (JRTB).

The minister explained that the installation process is being carried out in phases, beginning with locations that have a high incidence of accidents, particularly at night.

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Datuk Remy Ishak Joins GAC Malaysia as Brand Ambassador

GAC Malaysia has appointed award-winning actor and prominent Malaysian personality Datuk Remy Ishak as its newest brand ambassador, marking another milestone in the company’s growing presence in the country. The announcement was made at the GAC & AION Showcase held at 1 Utama Shopping Centre, where Remy was introduced alongside fellow ambassador Jack Lim.

The appointment coincides with a period of rapid expansion for GAC Malaysia, driven by the upcoming launch of the second locally assembled GAC EMKOO C-SUV and the fully imported GAC M8 PHEV MPV.

Remy, who rose to fame through his acclaimed performance in the hit television drama Nurkasih, has become a household name in Malaysia thanks to his versatility on screen and his extensive public engagements. Known for his grounded personality, professionalism and strong rapport with local audiences, he has represented numerous brands over the years. GAC Malaysia views these qualities as an ideal match for its brand identity, which blends refinement with everyday practicality.

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Lexus Malaysia Launches State-of-the-Art 3S Centre in Subang Jaya

Lexus Malaysia has officially opened the doors to its latest 3S (Sales, Service and Spare Parts) facility in Subang Jaya, establishing a significant new presence in the Klang Valley. Located in SS16, the new Lexus Subang Jaya outlet is purpose-built to serve a diverse and growing community, ranging from established neighbourhoods and working professionals to young families and students.

Designed to embody the Lexus philosophy of meticulous craftsmanship and customer-centric luxury, the facility offers a seamless and integrated ownership experience. The new centre consolidates sales, servicing, and parts support under one roof, allowing Lexus to cater to every stage of a customer’s journey—from the initial showroom visit to long-term vehicle maintenance.

The showroom has been carefully laid out to deliver a refined and personalised atmosphere. Every element within the space has been considered to reflect Lexus’s emphasis on hospitality and sophistication, aiming to create a welcoming environment that elevates the car-buying experience.

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EON Launches Second Edition of EON & Sahabat Autofest 2025 at Glenmarie

Edaran Otomobil Nasional (EON), a subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Berhad and a key player in Malaysia’s multi-brand automotive and mobility landscape, has officially launched the second edition of its flagship event — the EON & Sahabat Autofest 2025. The automotive and lifestyle showcase is now open at EON Glenmarie in Shah Alam and will run until 10 August 2025.

This year’s Autofest marks a pivotal moment in EON’s transformation, reinforcing its identity as a contemporary mobility partner. The event serves as the launchpad for the group’s refreshed and unified brand identity. Central to this rebranding is EON’s new tagline, “Passion Drives Possibilities,” which embodies its mission to deliver innovation-driven, customer-centric services. Alongside this, EON’s updated brand vision, “Leading the future mobility, powered by heart,” underscores its commitment to providing progressive and human-centred mobility solutions.

The branding overhaul consolidates EON’s entire network of outlets, services, and digital platforms under one cohesive identity. The initiative is designed to strengthen customer trust while enhancing operational cohesion across its ecosystem.

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Proton Rolls Out MISI 5 Tour to Showcase Highly Anticipated e.MAS 5 Ahead of Official Launch

In a move to introduce its latest electric vehicle (EV) to the Malaysian public, Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET), a subsidiary of Proton, has launched the MISI 5 Tour — a nationwide preview campaign for the upcoming Proton e.MAS 5. Spanning five regions and 13 states, the tour will reach 29 towns across Malaysia from August to October 2025, giving Malaysians early access to the brand’s entry-level EV before its official release.

The Proton e.MAS 5, positioned as the most accessible electric vehicle in the country, is the second model in the e.MAS line-up. Building on the success of the Proton e.MAS 7 — currently the best-selling EV in Malaysia — the new model is aimed at urban youth, families, and first-time EV owners, and is designed to integrate seamlessly into the daily lives of a broad demographic.

Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of PRO-NET, explained that this nationwide initiative is rooted in engagement and experience. He said Proton is confident that allowing the public to interact directly with the e.MAS 5, supported by insights from product experts and local influencers, will foster trust and enthusiasm ahead of the car’s commercial debut. He further noted that the tour was crafted to connect with Malaysians at a grassroots level, bringing the future of mobility to familiar environments and vibrant community spaces.

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Proton Reveals e.MAS 5: Compact EV with Practicality at its Core

Proton has offered a first glimpse of the forthcoming e.MAS 5, the second vehicle in its e.MAS electric vehicle series, marking a significant step in the national carmaker’s electrification strategy. Although the full car remains partially concealed to preserve anticipation, the preview unveiled several technical and design details that signal Proton’s ambitions in the affordable EV space.

Two variants will be available at launch: the Prime and the Premium, each offering different battery capacities supplied by CATL. The Premium version is fitted with a larger LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery, delivering an estimated driving range of 325km, while the Prime is equipped with a smaller unit, offering approximately 280km on a single charge.

Despite its compact exterior, the e.MAS 5 surprises with its spacious interior. Proton claims the model comfortably seats five adults, made possible by the EV’s flat floor design, which allows for greater legroom at the rear. This was validated during on-site testing, where five larger-framed individuals were able to sit with ease and ample room.

Stylistically, the car embraces a minimalist, rounded silhouette with smooth contours and aerodynamic elements reminiscent of the SMART range. Design highlights include feather-like LED headlights, 16-inch aerodynamically optimised wheels, and semi-concealed door handles. The Premium variant adds a dual-tone roof for a floating visual effect, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

The interior is centred around a 14.6-inch high-definition touchscreen display, powered by an automotive-grade processor and offering support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Voice recognition is available in both English and Malay through Proton’s ATLAS Auto system, shared with the latest Proton X50. A crystal-style gear selector and two-tone steering wheel add a touch of sophistication to the cabin.

Storage space is another strong suit of the e.MAS 5. With 32 compartments throughout the vehicle, owners will find ample places to stow everyday items. The boot offers 375 litres of space, expandable to 1,320 litres when the rear seats are folded. One of the standout features is the 70-litre front trunk (frunk), which includes hydraulic struts for added convenience.

Charging infrastructure concerns have been addressed with the inclusion of a real-time charging map. Fast charging is efficient, with the battery able to charge from 30% to 80% in just 21 minutes. Although the e.MAS 5 is not performance-focused; it is agile where it matters most, and it accelerates from 0 to 50km/h in 3.9 seconds, ideal for urban traffic manoeuvres.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a single electric motor, supported by a rear multi-link suspension setup for improved ride comfort and handling. Safety has also been prioritised, with six airbags and an ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite comprising 12 intelligent features, including adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and lane departure warning.

To introduce the e.MAS 5 to Malaysians nationwide, PRO-NET has launched the MISI 5 preview tour, which will visit five major regions across the country. As Proton prepares to enter the competitive compact EV segment, the e.MAS 5 is positioned as a practical, tech-savvy, and family-friendly offering aimed at accelerating local EV adoption.

UMW Toyota Motor Records Strong July Sales Amid Ongoing Customer-Centric Drive

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) continued its upward trajectory in July 2025, posting robust sales figures of 8,877 units for the month. This pushes the cumulative sales for the year to 53,163 units, reinforcing the brand’s strong presence and sustained relevance in the Malaysian automotive landscape.

Toyota’s success in Malaysia lies in its ability to offer a diverse product line-up that caters to a wide range of customer preferences. From dependable internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles for daily commuting to hybrid alternatives designed for fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness, UMWT has built a reputation for consistently addressing the practical needs of Malaysian motorists.

Central to this success is UMWT’s unwavering customer-first philosophy. The company’s commitment to reliability, ownership assurance and long-term support continues to earn the trust of customers nationwide. By focusing on real-world priorities, the brand delivers not only products but also an ownership experience that reflects the daily realities of Malaysian drivers.

The Toyota Extra Mile programme stands as a testament to UMWT’s commitment to customer satisfaction. It elevates the ownership journey through comprehensive support that includes a robust network of service centres, digital convenience via the Toyota MY app, and specialised hybrid vehicle maintenance. Whether through extended warranty offerings or simplified access to routine servicing, the programme is designed to provide assurance long after the vehicle leaves the showroom floor.

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