Proton today announced the appointment of Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar, the group managing director of DRB-Hicom, as its new non-executive chairman following ex-chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s resignation on March 31.
The automaker also said that Syed Faisal – who was appointed to his DRB-Hicom post in March this year – will also be taking on the role as chairman of Group Lotus.
Prior to his appointment at DRB-Hicom, Syed Faisal was the CEO of Malakoff. Before joining Malakoff, the 50-year-old – who is an accountant by profession – was the CEO of Gas Malaysia Berhad from June 2013 to December 2013.
He was also the executive director of Konsortium Logistik (KLB) from June 2013 to December 2013, and was previously group MD of POS Malaysia from 2008 to 2011 as well as the CEO of New Straits Times Press (NSTP) from 2003 to 2008.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
The comments express mostly negative sentiments towards the appointment of Syed Faisal Akbar as Proton's non-executive chairman, criticising his lack of automotive experience and questioning his qualifications. Many commenters believe Proton is mismanaged and losing money consistently, highlighting concerns over high salaries for management and the continuation of lavish benefits and company cars despite ongoing losses. Some suggest that Proton’s leadership should take pay cuts and focus on quality and affordability rather than political or crony interests. There is skepticism about whether the new appointment will lead to real change, with many advocating for experienced automotive professionals and restructuring, including the possibility of selling or privatizing Proton. Overall, comments reflect frustration with management decisions, financial mismanagement, and hopes for a more pragmatic, industry-focused approach.