Driven to succeed: Models posing next to the e.MAS 7 EV during its launch at Mitec. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Proton will continue to operate independently without government interference, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister gave this assurance following Proton’s recent success and the lessons learned from past government interventions.
“Proton’s illustrious history, founded by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, has faced its share of challenges. The key lesson now is to strengthen its management while ensuring the government provides support and assistance without interfering in its operations.
“This is to ensure that Proton will have the freedom to conduct research and training, while guaranteeing that its administration and governance are at a good standard,” he said while launching the e.MAS 7 model at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) here yesterday.
Anwar cited the launch of Proton’s CKD assembly plant in Egypt as an example of its progress as a global automotive player.
“We’ve laid the foundation for Proton’s manufacturing and distribution in Egypt, particularly targeting northern African markets,” he added.
On Proton’s first electric vehicle (EV), the e.MAS 7, Anwar said it embodies Malaysia’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions.
He noted that Proton had aggressively promoted the vehicle nationwide before its official launch, showcasing it as both a sophisticated EV and an eco- friendly innovation.
“The launch of Proton’s EV is timely and marks the nation’s transition into the next era of low-carbon mobility,” he said.
While the e.MAS 7 is currently available only as a completely built-up unit (fully imported), it will eventually be built in the Automotive High Technology Valley in Tanjung Malim, Perak.
Anwar urged Proton to capitalise on the growing EV market by aligning with the National Automotive Policy 2020.
“It is incumbent that companies that operate in our automotive industry do not just sell vehicles, but also open opportunities for investment and employment by setting up a holistic ecosystem,” he said.
Anwar noted that at present, 75% of energy consumed in Asia is from hydrocarbons (fossil fuels), with demand set to double by 2030.
He said that Malaysia was taking a balanced approach in reducing dependency on fossil fuels while moving towards green mobility and renewable energy.
“Our projection indicates this could yield investment opportunities as high as RM1.3 trillion by 2050, while contributing and additional RM220bil to the nation’s gross domestic product, including creating 300,000 jobs,” he said.
He also announced that the e.MAS 7 will be the official car when Malaysia chairs Asean next year, in line with the government’s commitment to show strong support for the joint venture between the national car manufacturer and Chinese automaker Geely.
