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Proton e.MAS Expands to Over 50 Dealerships, Becoming Malaysia’s Largest EV Network

Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET), the distributor of Proton e.MAS, has announced the expansion of its national dealership network to more than 50 outlets, officially making Proton e.MAS the largest electric vehicle (EV) dealership network in Malaysia.

By the end of October 2025, 45 Proton e.MAS dealerships will be fully operational, each offering a complete EV ownership experience that includes vehicle sales, test drives, charging facilities, and aftersales support. This milestone underlines Proton’s ambition to build a comprehensive and inclusive EV ecosystem, ensuring that every Malaysian has access to electrified mobility across the country.

Proton e.MAS continues to strengthen its presence throughout Malaysia, ensuring greater accessibility for customers and supporting the increasing demand for electric vehicles. By the end of October 2025, 45 outlets will be operational, with the total expected to reach 50 by December 2025.

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Government Tightens Speed Limiter Enforcement for Heavy Vehicles

The Ministry of Transport has intensified its efforts to improve road safety, issuing 4,295 notices to heavy vehicle owners to verify the installation of Speed Limiter Devices (SLD). The initiative forms part of the government’s ongoing campaign to curb accidents involving commercial and heavy vehicles caused by excessive speeding.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the verification process is crucial in ensuring that all affected vehicles meet mandatory safety requirements. Vehicle owners who receive a notice are required to confirm that their SLD has been installed and return to the Road Transport Department (JPJ) within 14 days for inspection and approval. Those who comply within the given timeframe will not face any penalties.

He explained that enforcement activities have already produced positive results, with more heavy vehicle operators now adhering to the installation requirement. The government’s continued oversight, he said, has encouraged stronger compliance across the industry.

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Proton Expands After-Sales Network in Sabah as X50 Retains Its Lead

Proton continues to dominate Malaysia’s SUV market, with the all-new Proton X50 maintaining its position at the top in September with 2,994 units sold, despite the extended holiday period. The strong demand reinforces the model’s popularity nationwide and highlights Proton’s need to strengthen its customer support infrastructure, particularly in East Malaysia.

To meet the growing ownership base, Proton is expanding its after-sales network in Sabah by enhancing the operations of its Regional Parts Centre (RPC) in Kota Kinabalu. The facility plays a key role as the brand’s main logistics and distribution hub for East Malaysia, ensuring that spare parts reach dealers and service centres quickly and efficiently. Urgent orders can now be fulfilled within 24 hours, while regular stock replenishments take just two days — a clear step forward in supporting the increasing number of Proton vehicles on the road.

The 28,000-square-foot centre, located in Inanam, was set up last year to streamline Proton’s parts distribution network in the region. It processes up to 20 containers each month and can handle six containers simultaneously. With an inventory capable of sustaining three to three-and-a-half months of supply, the RPC maintains healthy stock levels to keep pace with service demands. Its ability to receive direct imports further strengthens Proton’s logistics chain, particularly for Sabah and northern Sarawak.

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BHPetrol Invigorates Bandar Tun Razak Station With New Image & Facilities

BHPetrol today officially launched the newly upgraded and rebranded BHPetrol Bandar Tun Razak station. The station, which originally operated under the BP brand since 1996, transitioned to BHPetrol in 2006 and continues to operate under the local BHPetrol brand.

The station offers BHPetrol Infiniti Petrol 95, 97, Diesel B10, and Diesel B7, for drivers in the Kuala Lumpur area. It also ensures customers continue to enjoy subsidised petrol prices through government mechanisms like the BUDI95 programme.

Beyond fuel, the station is strategically designed as a daily convenience hub for consumers, equipped with:

• BHPetromart convenience store
• Prayer rooms (Surau)
• Kenangan Coffee outlet
• Large and clean washrooms

The launching ceremony was officiated by Encik Ismadi bin Sakirin (DBKL Socio-Economic Development Executive Director) and Ir. Azizul Azily Ahmad (BHPetrol Chief Executive Officer).

Ir. Azizul Azily Ahmad emphasised that the role of a petrol station extends beyond just supplying fuel; it also serves as a central point for daily consumer convenience. He also expressed hope that the strategic cooperation with DBKL and PDRM will continue to bring positive impact to both the business and consumers as a whole.

You Can Be Fined in Malaysia For Not Being Properly Dressed When Driving

Did you know that you could be issued a fine by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) if you are not dressed appropriately when driving? If you are an e-hailing or commercial vehicle driver that is.

Recently an e-hailing driver from Langkawi, Kedah shared his experience with JPJ officers where he was issued a fine for wearing a round neck t-shirt instead of a collared one.

Posting on Facebook, the driver detailed his shocking experience where he lamented about his experience with the enforcement officer.

“This is the first time I have been issued a ticket by JPJ in 30 years of driving,” he said in the now removed post.

“Even though this is my first offence with JPJ, no warning, no compromise, I was just told to sign the fine and not talk too much,” he said in the post.

He was issued a fine for wearing a collarless t-shirt.

The fine was issued under the K15(b) PSV (LCDCP) 1959 T act where a driver can be issued a fine for not being appropriately dressed. If found guilty, the offender can be issued a fine ranging from RM150 which can go up to RM300 if not paid within 60 days.

The e-hailing driver expressed his frustration but conveyed his respect to the JPJ officer for being firm in upholding the law as well.

If you did not know, drivers of commercial vehicles including e-hailing vehicles and taxis need to be appropriately dressed at all times. The attire usually includes collared t-shirts, long pants and proper shoes as well.

smart Malaysia Opens Bookings for the All-New smart #5

Following its first public appearance at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, smart Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the All-New smart #5, the latest addition to its all-electric line-up.

Presented under the theme ‘Contemporary Adventurer’, the smart #5 represents a new direction for the marque – one that blends ruggedness, refinement, and electric innovation.

Customers can now secure their smart #5 with a RM2,000 booking fee, either through:

The Hello smart App, available on Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Gallery; or
The smart Malaysia website.

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Volvo Car Malaysia Completes 2026 Line-Up with Refreshed and Electrified Models

Volvo Car Malaysia has wrapped up its transition to the 2026 model year, refreshing its entire line-up following the introduction of the updated XC60 and the new single-motor EC40. The move reinforces Volvo’s direction towards an electrified future while giving Malaysian buyers more choices across its premium SUV and electric vehicle range.

The refreshed XC60, which made its debut in September, now offers updated styling, new features, and improved comfort. Available in two variants, the XC60 T8 AWD plug-in hybrid is priced from RM362,888, while the XC60 B5 AWD mild hybrid starts at RM328,888. The plug-in hybrid version combines strong performance with practicality, offering up to 89 kilometres of pure electric driving range on a single charge — ideal for daily commutes with zero tailpipe emissions. With over 450 Nm of torque, it delivers a smooth yet energetic drive.

The mild-hybrid B5 variant provides a more traditional setup with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine paired with an integrated starter-generator, delivering seamless acceleration without the need for external charging.

For 2026, the Volvo EC40 — the brand’s first electric-only crossover SUV — adds a new single-motor variant to complement the existing twin-motor version. Priced at RM248,888, this new model features a rear-mounted electric motor producing 238 hp and completing the 0–100 km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.

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Proton Showcases S70 Efficiency at the Penang One Tank Challenge

Proton recently organised the Penang Proton One Tank Challenge as part of the district-level Hari Sukan Negara celebrations for Daerah Seberang Perai Tengah on 11 October. Acting as one of the strategic partners for the event, Proton used the occasion to showcase the S70 sedan’s real-world fuel efficiency and driving performance.

The challenge followed closely after Proton was named one of the title sponsors for the 2025 Penang Bridge International Marathon, where a new Proton S70 will be the top prize in the event’s lucky draw.

Under the theme “Drive Efficiently. Live Actively. Celebrate Malaysia,” the challenge aligned with the National Sports Day’s goal of encouraging active lifestyles. Thirty-three Proton S70 owners took part in the six-hour event, which ran from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants drove along a scenic 110 km route covering both Penang Island and the mainland, crossing the two bridges that link them.

The event drew strong participation from Proton S70 owners, all competing for cash prizes by achieving the lowest fuel consumption. Starting from Setia Sentral Juru, the route took drivers through Bayan Lepas and George Town via the Second Penang Bridge before returning to the mainland through the First Penang Bridge.

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Hyundai STARIA Goes Local as Hyundai Motor Malaysia Begins Sales of CKD Model

Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) has officially begun sales of the locally assembled Hyundai STARIA. Produced at Inokom’s assembly plant in Kulim, Kedah — operated under Sime Darby Motors — the STARIA becomes the first locally produced model under HMY since its establishment earlier this year.

The move represents more than just a manufacturing milestone. Hyundai Motor Malaysia President, Eric Lee, said the start of local production reflects Hyundai’s confidence in Malaysia’s potential as both a key market and an emerging assembly hub within the brand’s global network. He noted that the investment is part of Hyundai’s long-term commitment to build a stronger presence in Malaysia, not only through product offerings but also through local industrial development.

The introduction of the CKD STARIA also signals Hyundai’s broader commitment to local investment and supply chain growth. Beyond assembling vehicles, HMY aims to contribute to the local economy by supporting Malaysia’s expanding automotive ecosystem. This initiative aligns with the brand’s long-term goal of positioning itself as both a mobility solutions provider and a strategic partner in Malaysia’s industrial development.

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BHPetrol Answers Your BUDI95 Questions

With the launch of the Budi95 targeted petrol subsidy, many are still struggling to come to terms on how it works.

While we can all agree that the targeted subsidy program benefits everyone but using it has not been easy.

This is because every pump is different and thus the method to claim your allocated 300 litres per month is not the same at different fuel stations.

Recognising this issue, BHPetrol has launched a slew of social media content designed to help users better understand the process.

The content includes “3 easy steps to use Budi95”, “You ask, we answer,” “How to check your Budi95 balance”, and more.

We have shared some of the content below for your reference, so if you have questions about Budi95, BHPetrol has your answer, visit any of BHPetrol’s social media platforms to find out more. (more…)