Mapping Malaysia's Resource Centres

46 MAPPING MALAYSIA’S RESOURCE CENTRES PROTON HOLDINGS BERHAD (PROTON) Introduction PROTON was established in 1983 as a National Car Project, via a joint venture between HICOM (70%) and Mitsubishi (30%), with the objective of accelerating and rationalising Malaysia’s automotive sector, and advancing ancillary industries. Following the signing of a Definitive Agreement on 23 June 2017, China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Limited acquired a 49.9% equity in PROTON. Area of Expertise Independent automotive Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) based in Malaysia, with a comprehensive set of research and development/engineering; production; sales and distribution; and vendor capabilities. Strengths and Achievements PROTON is all about pushing the boundaries of technology. The company believes that by doing so, it can build stronger relationships, bridge distances between people, innovate and create stronger bonds towards a better future for mobility. Projects Undertaken (Domestic) PROTON’s main objective is to propel Malaysia into the 21st century as an industrialised nation. Its desire to constantly improve continues to this day, undoubtedly leading to PROTON being at the forefront of the automotive industry. Recognition and Awards PROTON’s many accolades include: 1. 2019 i. Proton X70, Local Car of The Year 2019 and Best Large-size SUV/ Crossover (2-Row Seating), Star CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards, 2019. ii. Proton Iriz, Best Compact Hatch (below RM70k), Star CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards, 2019. iii. Proton Saga Premium, Best Compact Sedan (below RM70k), Star CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards, 2019. iv. Proton Exora Premium, Best Family Ride of the Year (RM50k- RM100k, 3-Row Seating), Star CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards, 2019. 2. 2018 i. Proton Saga, Bronze Award in the Budget Car category, Carlist.my People’s Choice Awards, 2018. ii. Proton Persona, Bronze Award in the Compact Sedan category, Carlist.my People’s Choice Awards, 2018. iii. Proton X70, Best Connectivity & Infotainment award, Carlist.my Editors’ Choice Awards, 2018. iv. Proton Ertiga Plus Xtra, Best Compact MPV, CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards, 2018. v. Proton, Silver People’s Choice Award, Putra Brand Awards, 2018. vi. Proton Saga, One of the three best cars in the City Cars of Malaysia category, Cars of Malaysia Awards, 2018. vii. Proton Iriz, One of the three best Compact Hatchback category, Cars of Malaysia Awards, 2018. A U T O M O T I V E A N D T R A N S P O R T A T I O N