Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has confirmed that he will be appointed chairman of Proton Holdings Bhd, and this is expected to be officially announced tomorrow (May 21), reports Bernama.
“My plan is to work with Proton, and make it (Proton) a success,” he told reporters at the Asian Banker Annual Leadership Achievement Awards Dinner 2014 just tonight.
Dr Mahathir did not, however, comment if Tan Sri Mohd Khamil Jamil, Proton’s current executive chairman (pic, second from right), would withdraw from his post.
The Malaysian Reserve very recently reported that the former PM would become chairman of Proton and also of Lotus plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Proton. He was understood to have accepted both appointments.
The same report mentioned that DRB-Hicom has been focussing on radical transformation measures for Proton’s management, and Dr M’s appointment is seen as a coup, given the former PM’s influence in the industry and government.
Dr Mahathir has been Proton advisor since he retired as PM in 2003. Proton recently appointed Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah, previously DRB-Hicom group director for automotive and defence, as CEO.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments reveal strong mixed sentiments about Dr Mahathir's appointment as Proton chairman. Some see it as a strategic move to revive Proton and boost national pride, while others criticize it as a politically motivated decision, fearing it may favor cronies and hinder progress. There is concern over outdated management, vendor overcharging, and the company's future competitiveness. Overall, the tone ranges from hopeful to skeptical, with many questioning whether this leadership change will truly benefit Proton and Malaysia in the long term.