According to second international trade and industry minister, Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan, Proton’s collaboration with a foreign partner will allow the national carmaker to produce better quality products and enable it to be more competitive in the market.
In the report by Bernama, he added that the collaboration will be beneficial as it would bring in funding to support Proton’s research and development efforts. “If we work with big players or big countries, the quality of our cars can be competitive with the help of other international brands,” he said.
Ong added Proton was free to make its own decision on the matter, and that the government will not interfere in the selection process. During the launch of the new Proton Saga, it was revealed that Proton’s owner, DRB-Hicom, had shortlisted five proposals from foreign bidders looking to own a stake in the national carmaker.
DRB-Hicom CEO Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar revealed at the time that the foreign partner must be a strategic, cooperation and cultural fit with Proton. He added that a decision will be made by the middle or first quarter of next year.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments express skepticism about Proton's competitiveness, citing outdated models, reliance on government support, and internal issues such as management and product quality. Some suggest better foreign partnerships, notably with Volvo or Renault-Nissan, could improve Proton’s future. Others mention past failed collaborations and criticize Proton’s moderate efforts in innovation. Overall, sentiments lean toward concern about Proton’s sustainability without significant restructuring or strategic foreign alliances to meet international standards.