All posts by Amirul Mukminin

Life’s too short to argue about which car is the best. Drive whatever you like, as long as you’re happy with it.

Pro-Net offers 30% charging discount for all Proton eMAS 7 and smart owners

Good news for Proton eMAS 7 and smart EV owners returning home for Aidilfitri. Pro-Net, a subsidiary of Proton, is offering a special discount of 30% on EV charging fees from March 29 to April 7, 2025.

According to the company, this initiative ensures a smoother and more affordable balik kampung experience.

Established in 2022 as the official distributor of smart and Proton eMAS electric vehicles, Pro-Net provides access to over 2,000 public charging points across the country, which is the largest integrated charging network in Malaysia.

Pro-Net’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Zhang Qiang, expressed his excitement for this initiative: “At Pro-Net, we are focused on making electric driving practical and enjoyable for all. As we celebrate Raya, we want to thank our customers by making it easy and affordable for them to get home.”

Proton eMAS and smart EV owners can enjoy this special offer at over 85% of public charging stations. Just use the Proton eMAS or Hello smart apps to start your charging session, and the discount will be applied automatically.

RON95 subsidy rationalisation mechanism to use MyKad, two-tier pricing structure

The rationalisation of the RON95 subsidy will be implemented using the MyKad identification system and a two-tier pricing structure.

According to Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, the complete mechanism for the rationalisation of the RON95 subsidy will be announced after the first half of this year.

He added that the mechanism is currently being refined and the government does not wish to announce any policy implementation in a rushed manner.

“We do not want to pre-announce something while we are still working on it because the most important thing is to ensure that the system is robust.

“We will use a two-tier pricing system, with both subsidised and non-subsidised prices. The system to be used in channeling the RON95 subsidy to eligible citizens will be through MyKad,” he stated.

Further commenting on the rationale for using MyKad in the implementation of the RON95 subsidy rationalisation, Amir Hamzah explained that this system has already been utilised in the Basic Rahmah Contribution (SARA).

He also emphasised that 85% of the population in this country will not be affected by the targeting of the RON95 subsidy that will be implemented in the future.

Motul obtains SIRIM certification, reinforcing quality and authenticity in Malaysia

Automotive lubricant manufacturer Motul has announced that it has now been certified by SIRIM QAS International as of March 10, 2025.

Awarded to Specialty Lubricants Trading (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., a subsidiary and authorised distributor of Motul Asia Pacific, the certification reinforces the brand’s long-standing commitment to providing high-performance products for Malaysian customers.

The SIRIM conformity label will be applied to Motul products distributed through authorised channels, as part of the company’s efforts to protect customers from counterfeit products.

Therefore, customers are advised to look out for the SIRIM conformity label when purchasing Motul products to ensure they are receiving genuine, certified lubricants.

Ts. Md Adha Rahmat, Chief Executive Officer of SIRIM QAS International highlighted, “By ensuring engine oils meet stringent international standards, we are fortifying the market against fraudulent products while supporting industry integrity and consumer protection.”

“By promoting the use of genuine, high-performance lubricants, the certification scheme supports Malaysia’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) efforts in reducing vehicle emissions and fostering sustainable industry practices,” added Ts. Md Adha Rahmat.

The SIRIM certification solidifies Motul’s position as a trusted partner for Malaysian motorists and reinforces its reputation for reliability and excellence in Malaysia.

Motul’s commitment to the Malaysian market is strengthened by its strategic partnerships with key distributors nationwide. These partnerships have played a pivotal role in growing Motul’s footprint, while ensuring customer access to its world-class lubricants.

The SIRIM certification further reinforces these partnerships, providing an added layer of confidence in the quality, innovation, and reliability of Motul products.

Boon Siew Honda announces rider lineup for ARRC, WSBK and MSBK

Boon Siew Honda has introduced the lineup of riders set to compete in the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC), Superbike World Championship (WSBK), and the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK).

For the 2025 season, Boon Siew Honda will compete in all three championships under one iconic name: Idemitsu Honda Racing Malaysia.

In the ARRC’s Asia Superbike 1000cc (ASB1000) category, Honda Racing Malaysia will be represented by Zaqhwan Zaidi and Azroy Hakeem Anuar, riding the 2025 Honda CBR1000RR-R.

Meanwhile, in the SuperSports 600cc (SS600) category, Honda Racing Malaysia’s charge will be spearheaded by three riders Md Helmi Azman, Syarifuddin Azman (Damok), and Khairul Idham Pawi (KIP). The machine they will be using is the CBR600RR.

Additionally, Md Irfan Haykal will represent Honda Racing Malaysia in the Asia Production 250cc (AP250) category. He will compete under Honda Racing Malaysia’s satellite team, SCK Honda Racing, riding the CBR250R.

On the Superbike World Championship (WSBK) stage, Honda Racing Malaysia’s challenge will be shouldered by Md Zaqhwan Zaidi competing in the Superbike (SBK) category, with Damok racing in the World Supersport (WSSP) category.

Lastly, the Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) will see Haziq Fairues represent Idemitsu Honda Racing Malaysia.

Kunitomo Asano named new Managing Director and CEO at Boon Siew Honda

Boon Siew Honda has announced the appointment of Kunitomo Asano as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 1, 2025.

Asano will succeed Mitsuharu Funase, who has been appointed Managing Director of the Motorcycle Racing Division at Honda Racing Corporation.

Asano, who previously served as the Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at Boon Siew Honda, possesses over 20 years of experience in the motorcycle industry, including 10 years in Japan and 10 years in international markets such as Thailand, India, and Malaysia.

His deep understanding of global trends and local market dynamics positions him well to drive Boon Siew Honda’s continued growth.

His career with Honda began with an assignment in Malaysia, after which he became involved in product planning, export business, and marketing strategies across multiple regions.

During his tenure, Asano played a vital role in stabilising and increasing sales while strengthening operational efficiency.

Under his leadership, Boon Siew Honda successfully introduced new motorcycle models, expanded the BigWing dealer network, and launched strategic test ride campaigns.

As the new CEO, Asano is committed to further enhancing Honda’s brand presence in Malaysia. He also aims to improve customer experience, enhance the service network, and drive continuous product innovation.

In addition, he places great emphasis on rider safety, addressing traffic-related challenges through advanced safety technologies and educational initiatives.

Express bus drivers dropping off passengers in unauthorised areas will be fined on the spot

The Kedah Road Transport Department (JPJ) has warned express bus drivers not to drop off passengers in unauthorised areas.

According to its director, Stien Van Lutam, express bus drivers caught committing the offence will be fined on the spot.

He added that so far, two violations have been detected during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2025 Special Operation, which was launched from 24 March to 8 April this year.

“JPJ personnel in disguise detected a 29-year-old bus driver who, while travelling from Ipoh to Sungai Petani, dropped off passengers in an unauthorised area or outside the bus terminal.

“Another 27-year-old express bus driver was also found committing the same offence while travelling from Alor Setar to Kelantan, in addition to overtaking on a double line,” he stated.

He remarked that dropping off passengers in prohibited areas not only endangers the passengers but also contributes to accidents and traffic congestion.

Meanwhile, Stien mentioned that the 14-day special operation involves 271 JPJ personnel throughout the state, whose leave has been suspended to ensure the smoothness and safety of road users, as well as in efforts to minimise the rate of accidents and fatalities due to road incidents.

He stated that the JPJ will continue to prioritise nine major offences, including failure to comply with speed limits, running red lights, overtaking in prohibited areas, driving in emergency lanes, and using mobile phones.

“Users returning to their hometowns are advised to remain patient while driving, not to let their emotions take over, and to ensure that their vehicles are in good condition before starting their journey to avoid any unwanted incidents,” he said.

Sayonara, Mazda 6, 2, CX-3, and MX-30

With an exciting rotary sports car and a new generation Skyactiv engine in the pipeline, the future for Mazda looks incredibly exciting. However, it’s a bit of a bummer that several existing models are set to face the axe as early as the end of this year.

Mazda 2

First off, we have the Mazda 2, which has been around since 2014. The hatchback did receive a couple of updates in 2019 and again in 2023, but the changes felt like a drop in the ocean and simply weren’t enough to keep it relevant in the market.

Sales of the hatchback were already wrapped up in the UK last February, but those in Europe can still get the hybrid version, which is essentially a rebadged Toyota Yaris. As of now, there’s been no word on what might take its place.

Mazda CX-3

Much like the Mazda 2, the CX-3 has also been around for over a decade. The compact crossover is still available in Japan and some Asian markets, including Malaysia, but it’s been shown the door in the US and Europe.

That said, there’s still hope for the CX-3, as reports suggest that Mazda is currently working on a new generation model that will offer a hybrid engine option.

Mazda 6

The third-generation Mazda 6 is also approaching its final chapter. After being pulled from the North American market in 2021, the UK in 2023, and Japan in 2024, it’s just recently been discontinued in Australia for failing to meet safety standards.

But fear not, as the sedan already has a successor lined up, the Mazda EZ-6. Developed in collaboration with Changan using the Deepal SL03 as its basis, the EZ-6 will be available as a fully electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

Mazda MX-30

Last but not least, Mazda’s first electric vehicle, the MX-30, is also set to be axed after just five years on the market. It’s fair to say that this is not a complete shocker, considering it can only manage a mere 199 km on a full charge.

On the bright side, Mazda is still offering a range extender version known as the e-SkyActiv R-EV. Although its electric range is limited to just 85 km, this model can travel a total of 600 km thanks to its rotary engine and 50-litre fuel tank.

Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad system hacked, reveals PMX

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has revealed that Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad’s (MAHB) system was hacked with a demand for USD 10 million (RM 44.36 million), which was promptly rejected.

“Yesterday, we discussed the cyberattack that seriously impacted MAHB. The discussion focused on how to resolve the matter, including the hackers’ demand for US$10 million.

“I didn’t wait five seconds before immediately saying no,” he said.

Anwar did not elaborate on the hacking incident involving the airport operator, but he emphasised that this incident highlights the country’s need to allocate more resources to the police and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), among others, to prepare for combating hackers.

Anwar further stated that Malaysia would not be safe if its leadership and systems allowed the country to succumb to the ultimatums of criminals and traitors, both domestic and foreign.

He remarked that the decision to not capitulate to the hackers’ demands would undoubtedly pose risks to the government but it underscores the necessity to enhance the capabilities of the authorities, including the banking sector.

Hyundai Insteroid is what happens when a tiny EV gets a dose of steroid

Introduced for the first time in June last year, the Hyundai Inster is a rather cutesy subcompact electric vehicle.

Soon, it will have a more aggressive and ferocious-looking twin known as the Insteroid.

According to Hyundai, the name Insteroid is derived from a combination of ‘Inster’ and ‘Steroid’. While full reveal will only happen sometime in early April, this official teaser provides a glimpse of the model’s design.

From what we can see, the Insteroid features round headlights and the brand’s signature pixel LED lights similar to the Inster. But beyond that, it is an entirely different machine.

This is due to the Insteroid being fitted with a wide body kit and a massive rear spoiler designed based on racing video games. To these eyes, it looks exactly like a WRC car.

Additionally, the Insteroid boasts a roof scoop, air vents on the wheel arches, a prominent rear diffuser, and 21-inch disc wheels. The interior has yet to be revealed, but it is clear that space has been stripped out to make room for a roll cage.

The technical specifications of the Insteroid are also still unknown but given that it is equipped with a Boost button and Track mode, it is undoubtedly more powerful and exciting to drive compared to the car it’s based on.

As a refresher, the Inster, which Hyundai claims is enjoying strong sales in South Korea and Europe, is powered by a single electric motor delivering 97 PS in the Standard version or 115 PS in the Long Range version.

Chery Omoda E5 now priced RM27,000 lower at RM119,818

The Chery Omoda E5 came with a price tag of RM146,800 when it was launched in Malaysia back in March last year. Now, you can own this electric crossover for under RM120,000.

More specifically, the Omoda E5 is now available at an on-the-road price (excluding insurance) of RM119,818, meaning customers can enjoy savings of RM27,000.

However, hold your horses as this attractive offer coincides with the upcoming Aidilfitri celebrations and is limited to units manufactured only in 2024.

To further sweeten the deal, Chery Malaysia is also including a free wallbox charger valued at RM3,500, a free Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) cable valued at RM500, and RM1,000 in charging credit.

On top of that, owners can also charge their Omoda E5s for free at all Chery dealerships throughout the country.

The Omoda E5 is propelled by a single electric motor on the front axle, generating 201 hp and 340 Nm of torque. The motor gets its juice from a 61 kWh battery pack that promises a driving range of up to 430 km based on the WLTP cycle.

In addition to AC charging at 9.9 kW, the battery supports DC charging of up to 80 kW, which can replenish battery power from 30% to 80% in just 28 minutes.

The EV price war heats up in Malaysia

In addition to the Omoda E5, buyers with the budget of under RM150,000 can opt for the BYD Atto 3 Ultra, which is priced at RM123,800, representing a reduction of RM26,000 compared to the 2024 model. This does not include a cash rebate of RM5,000 for the first 1,000 buyers.

Both models will go toe to toe with the best-selling EV in Malaysia for the month of February, the Proton eMAS 7. This EV is available at a price of RM105,800 for the Prime variant and RM119,800 for the Premium variant, after discounting a cash rebate of RM4,000 offered to the first 6,000 buyers.

All engine oils must have genuine certification from SIRIM starting April 7

Starting from April 7, the government will enforce the Trade Descriptions Order (Certification and Marking of Engine Oil for Motor Vehicles) 2024 in its efforts to curb the sale of counterfeit motor vehicle engine oil.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali stated that with this new order, consumers will be able to identify the sale of genuine motor vehicle engine oil, thus curbing the sale of counterfeit oil which can pose safety risks and lead to road accidents.

“This new order will be able to protect the the interests of motor vehicle engine oil product companies by curbing the risks of production of non-genuine products by irresponsible parties,” he said.

Armizan mentioned that any engine oil product, whether produced domestically or imported, must obtain genuine certification through SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd, which has been appointed as the responsible body to certify and issue product compliance labels for this purpose.

The government is allowing a six-month period for manufacturers to comply with the directives regarding the gazette order starting on October 11, 2024.

“KPDN in collaboration with SIRIM has been organising engagement programmes since 2022 involving almost all major players in the motor vehicle engine oil industry in the country. Strict action will be taken against any importing company, distributor, or seller who sells uncertified products and does not have valid compliance label from the authorities,” said Armizan.

40% of our new clients are aged 40 and below – Ferrari CEO

Many people dream of owning a Ferrari (myself included) but not everyone has the financial means to turn their dreams into reality.

“Those who are able to splurge millions of ringgit on the supercar from Maranello are typically in their mid-life because, unless they come from a wealthy family, accumulating six figures in their bank account can take ages.

Nevertheless, recently, Ferrari has become increasingly popular among younger buyers.

Speaking to CNBC, Ferrari chief executive officer Benedetto Vigna revealed that 40% of the brand’s new buyers are under the age of 40.

The figure mentioned by Vigna represents a significant increase of 10% compared to 18 months ago.

“I’m not sure about other brands, but for us, it is an achievement thanks to our team,” he added.

The figure can be considered surprising, given that Ferrari is a brand that puts exclusivity before everything else.

Last year, Fortune reported that 81% of new Ferraris were sold to existing customers, with 48% of those already owning more than one Ferrari.

For this writer, however, this is not particularly surprising, as we can see that an increasing number of young people are becoming wealthy by jumping on the cryptocurrency and content creation bandwagons.

Then there are also the young professional athletes and celebrities who enjoy collecting luxury cars like Ferraris.

Nepal becomes first international market for Proton eMAS 7

Proton has made its debut in the international electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Proton eMAS 7 in Nepal.

According to the automaker, the launch follows the model’s strong performance in Malaysia since its debut on December 16 and helps to pave the way of a broader international strategy.

In the Nepalese market, the eMAS 7 is distributed by the brand’s authorised distributor, Jagdamba Motors. Similar to Malaysia, it is available in Prime and Premium guises, priced at NPR 5,699,000 (RM 183k) and NPR 6,799,000 (RM 218k), respectively.

There are six colours to choose from, namely Platinum Silver, Turquoise Green, Slate Grey, Quarts Rose, Moyu Black, and Lithium White. Notably, Moyu Black is not offered in Malaysia.

Aside from the addition of the black colour, the specifications of the eMAS 7 for the Nepali market are the same as those for the Malaysian market. The Prime variant comes with a 49.52 kWh Aegis Short Blade battery that promises a WLTP range of 345 km, whereas the Premium variant, equipped with a 60.22 kWh battery, offers a range of 410 km.

According to Proton, the eMAS 7 embarked on a tour in Nepal from February 21 to March 4, prior to its official launch. The tour covered all seven provinces and included 18 stops, such as Janakpur, Birtamod, and Itahari.

The company said its entry to the market is timely and aligns well with Nepal’s Green Mobility Vision. Over the past four years, the EV penetration rate in the country has increased from 6% of its total industry volume (TIV) in 2021 to 73% in 2024, equivalent to a nine-fold increase from 1,138 units to 10,794 units during that period.

Currently, Jagdamba Motors has three operational dealers, with plans to finalise agreements with 12 dealers nationwide by the end of 2025. It also has plans to establish charging infrastructures and build a robust service center network nationwide.

“Nepal is just the beginning. Plans are already in motion to introduce the Proton eMAS 7 to other international markets to support the brand’s global growth ambitions,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, Proton.

“Going forward, we will be bringing our EV model to Trinidad & Tobago, Mauritius as well as Singapore,” he added.

BMW C400 X, C400 GT updated for 2025, priced from RM47,500

BMW Motorrad Malaysia today launched the 2025 model year BMW C400 X and C400 GT, featuring technical improvements as well as new features, colours, and accessories.

The core of the C400 X and C400 GT remains unchanged, meaning both are still powered by a 350 cc single-cylinder engine capable of producing 34 hp at 7,500 rpm and 35 Nm at 5,750 rpm. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that promises smooth and responsive performance.

That being said, both mid-sized premium scooters are now equipped with ABS Pro as standard, ensuring optimum safety even when braking at a lean angle.

Meanwhile, the Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) function linked to the ABS Pro provides sensitive response, as well as high braking and driving stability with the best possible deceleration even when cornering.

Also included are Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR). The former offers even more safety when accelerating at a lean angle or in slippery road conditions, while the latter prevents unstable riding conditions that can occur during coasting or abrupt throttle reduction.

Now, on to connectivity. The C400 X features a 6.5-inch TFT display along with the BMW Motorrad Connected app, allowing the display to be linked to the multi-controller on the left handlebar.

The C400 GT, on the other hand, boasts a 10.25-inch TFT display as part of the Connectivity Pro package, offering split-screen functionality and map navigation.

Both models also come with navigation preparation as an option, allowing riders to easily integrate the BMW Motorrad Connected Ride Navigator or Connected Ride Cradle for enhanced navigation capabilities.

In addition to the equipment, BMW Motorrad has also improved practicality on both models. The C400 X now provides an additional 3 liters of storage under the seat, while the C400 GT offers up to 12 liters of additional storage, including front pockets. The Gran Turismo version is also equipped with a manually adjustable windshield.

A luggage gird is provided as standard on both the X and GT but customers can also opt for a 43.5-litre storage box as an additional accessory, which not only provides 13.5-litres more volume than before but offers a 10 kg payload compared to the previous 5 kg.

The new top case also features electrification, in the form of interior lighting and a USB charging port. Other new features include keyless ride and Headlight Pro on the X.

On top of that, the C400 X is now available in a Rugged variant, featuring a Kalamata metallic matte body colour, red and black seating, red rims, and off-road tyres. This version also comes with footboard inlays, golden front brake calipers and heavily tinted windshield.

The C400 GT, meanwhile, is offered in an Exclusive variant with a Diamond White metallic body, golden rims, seat seam/embroidery in rim colour, floor lighting or footboard inlays, golden front brake calipers and slightly tinted windshield.

The retail price (on the road, with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s all-new 3-year warranty and 3-year roadside assistance programmes, without insurance) is RM47,500 for the C400 X and RM53,500 for the C400 GT.

Catch the Jaecoo J8 at 1Utama from March 27-30

Jaecoo Malaysia has confirmed that the Jaecoo J8 will make its public debut in the country at a roadshow to be held at 1Utama from March 27 to 30.

While this will be the first time the public has the chance to see the J8, we have already seen the SUV in person when it was showcased alongside the J7 in January 2024, albeit in a left-hand drive version.

At that time, the J8 was slated for launch in the fourth quarter of the same year but this did not happen, and instead, the Omoda C9 was launched in December.

Nevertheless, with the announcement of this roadshow, we can confidently say that the J8 will officially enter the Malaysian market in a few months.

The specifications for the J8 for our market have yet to be disclosed, but what we do know is that the J8 has a larger footprint compared to the J7, measuring 4,820 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, 1,699 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,820 mm.

Inside, elements inspired by the Mercedes-Benz GLE can be seen in the square air vents and the large widescreen unit, which features two 12.3-inch displays sitting atop the dashboard.

Under the bonnet of the J8 lies a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that generates 245 hp and 385 Nm, transmitted to the wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This model will be available in either two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, though it is still uncertain whether Jaecoo Malaysia will offer one or both options.

The pricing has also yet to be revealed, but there are rumours suggesting it will be sold at around RM200,000.

BYD Atto 3 Ultra arrives in Malaysia with more kit, lower price

BYD Sime Motors has launched the Atto 3 Ultra, featuring upgraded specifications and a significantly more affordable price tag.

This latest version is priced at RM123,800, which equates to a reduction of RM26,000 compared to the 2024 model.

Furthermore, BYD Sime Motors is offering an exclusive package for the first 1,000 customers of the Atto 3 Ultra. This package includes:

  • RM5,000 cash rebate
  • 8-year service package (worth RM4,888)
  • 7 kW wall charger (worth RM3,699)
  • V2L adapter (worth RM988)
  • Type 2 cable (worth RM1,796)
  • Unlimited internet for two years

The Atto 3 Ultra comes with a comprehensive warranty package that includes a six-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/160,000 km high-voltage battery warranty, and an eight-year/150,000 km drive unit warranty.

So, what’s new with the Atto 3 Ultra? In terms of exterior design, although it appears similar to the existing model, the Atto 3 Ultra features a new rim design. There are three colours to choose from: Ski White, Harbour Grey, and Cosmos Black.

The interior boasts all-black upholstery further accentuated by contrasting yellow stitching, replacing the previous red accents.

In terms of features, the Atto 3 Ultra introduces two new elements: a digital key (NFC) that allows the driver to unlock the doors and start the vehicle using a smartphone, and cooling features for the front seats.

There have been no changes to the powertrain. As before, the Atto 3 Ultra has a single electric motor on the front axle producing 204 PS (150 kW) and 310 Nm, along with a 60.48 kWh battery pack that offers a driving range of up to 480 km (NEDC).

Perodua inks MoU with MyDigital ID for more secure cashless transactions

Perodua has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with MyDigital ID to secure user authentication access as the compact car company further improves its journey in cashless transactions.

MyDigital ID is a secured and trusted National Digital Identity initiative, developed to enable Malaysians to seamlessly and safely access both government and private digital services. With a focus on security and privacy, MyDigital ID sets a new benchmark for trust and protection in the rapidly evolving world of mobility.

“This collaboration is the first of its kind for the country’s automotive industry as MyDigital ID being the country’s gatekeeper for authentication transactions enables us to further diversify our services to our customers specifically, and to all Malaysians in general,” said Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

He said that the authentication process is a secured starting point to ensure all users are safeguarded by the country’s cyber security experts.

“Over the last six months, we have partnered up with several Malaysian bodies to further enhance the overall Malaysian experience through strategic partnerships with PETRONAS, Tenaga Nasional Bhd and Telekom Malaysia Bhd.”

“These other partnerships will offer a world of products and services to our future customers and we want our customers to be as safe as possible,” Dato’ Sri Zainal said.

“In addition, we are also supporting the government’s call for a more cashless society for convenience as well as leveraging on the robust cyber security feature provided by MyDigital ID,” he said.

“This strategic collaboration with Perodua demonstrates the important role of digital identity in accelerating digital transformation within the automotive industry,” said Mohd Azuddin Parman, Chief Operation Officer of MyDigital ID.

“The key is to ensure trusted digital identity verification while making digital interactions safer and more convenient. It empowers industries like the automotive to offer secure and user-friendly experiences for every customer. At the same time, we are contributing to the advancement of Malaysia’s digital economy,” Mohd Azuddin said.

Runners found selling RM3.50 appointment slots for up to RM750, says PUSPAKOM CEO

PUSPAKOM chief executive officer Mahmood Razak Bahman revealed that there are middlemen (more commonly known as runners) profiting nearly RM750 by reselling appointment slots at its premises.

According to him, one of the tactics is to use the same chassis number but with different registration numbers to secure multiple appointment slots.

“One appointment slot costs only RM3.50, yet some are selling it for up to RM750. Investigations are ongoing with the assistance of the Road Transport Department (JPJ). We are looking into who is involved and why they are doing this, and we will call in these intermediaries,” he said.

Previously, Minister of Transport Anthony Loke stated that PUSPAKOM will no longer allow double inspection bookings for the same registration number after discovering that runners were selling slots to others at inflated prices.

The measure is taken to prevent misuse by intermediaries found selling inspection slots to others for excessive profits.

Meanwhile, the Director-General of JPJ, Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, said that they are seeking assistance from related agencies such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to determine the appropriate actions against the involved runners.

“We are trying to locate these runners, but currently, we have exhausted all communication channels, and they are uncontactable. We are looking for alternative methods,” he said.

Vespa GTS 300 Classic launched in Malaysia at RM31,900

Didi Group, the official distributor of the Vespa brand in Malaysia, has officially launched the Vespa GTS 300 Classic. This is the third GTS 300 model offered in the local market, following the SuperSport and SuperTech.

According to the company, the latest model is priced at RM31,900 but the first 50 customers will enjoy a special introductory price of RM29,900.

The GTS 300 Classic is powered by a single-cylinder 278 cc HPE (High Performance Engine) that delivers 23.5 hp (17.5 kW) at 8,250 rpm and 26 Nm of torque at 5,250 rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

For the suspension system, it features a single-sided link arm at the front and dual hydraulic shock absorbers with four-stage preload adjustment at the rear.

The braking system consists of a single 220 mm disc with dual-channel ABS, while the rims are 12 inches in size, fitted with 120/70 tyres at the front and 130/70 tyres at the rear.

The GTS 300 Classic comes with a sizeable 8.5-litre fuel tank, while the seat is set at a rider-friendly height of 795 mm.

For the Malaysian market, three colour options are available, namely Beige Sabbia Q02, Black Vulcano ND, and Green Relax V11.

Jaecoo Malaysia begins nationwide deliveries of J7 PHEV

Jaecoo Malaysia has announced that it has begun delivering its latest offering, the J7 PHEV, to its dealerships across the country.

According to the company, the delivery of the first batch of the SUV in the first quarter of this year is proceeding as scheduled.

“The arrival of the first units of the JAECOO J7 PHEV at dealerships nationwide marks a major milestone for Jaecoo Malaysia and demonstrates our commitment to customers. We are excited for Malaysians to experience the innovation and sophistication of the J7 PHEV firsthand,” said Emily Lek, Vice President of Jaecoo Malaysia.

Launched on February 28, the J7 PHEV is priced at RM158,800 and is locally assembled at the Chery Malaysia production plant in Shah Alam, alongside the pure ICE-powered J7.

Each purchase of the J7 PHEV comes with a seven-year engine warranty or up to 150,000 km mileage, and an eight-year warranty or up to 160,000 km mileage for the battery, power motor, and power motor controller unit.

The eight-year warranty offers a 1-to-1 exchange if the state of health (SOH) of the battery falls below 70% during the warranty period.

The J7 PHEV is available in three colours, namely Khaki White, Carbon Crystal Black, and Moonlight Silver. Khaki White is a limited-edition with only 100 units available, after which Jaecoo will subsequently introduce an Olive Grey option.