Some 70% of local university graduates who have completed their studies choose to buy foreign-made cars because they think Proton is not comparable to foreign brands, according to recently-appointed Proton Edar CEO Abdul Rashid Musa.
Less than 10% of graduates bought a model from the national carmaker, he said, adding that these statistics were obtained through a detailed study commissioned by the company to increase the level of user confidence in its cars, Harian Metro reports.
“About 70% of graduates choose to buy foreign cars because they think the national car is not comparable to foreign brands, despite not having experienced driving the national car. In fact, some university graduates make a comparison between the national car with luxury brands, which is not fair,” he said.
Abdul Rashid said Proton was among 14 car manufacturing companies in the world producing vehicles, and that was something to be proud of. “Being one of the 14 companies that are able to produce cars at the international level is not easy. Many of the world’s major companies have been forced to close, and to survive in this industry is difficult, especially with an economic situation that is currently not stable,” he explained.
He was speaking at a presentation in Arau, Perlis, where the automaker presented a Proton Suprima S to the Auto and Motor Sports Club of Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP).
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments reveal widespread dissatisfaction with Proton, citing poor build quality, outdated models, and lack of innovation. Many graduates prefer foreign cars, such as Japanese and European brands, due to perceived reliability, safety, and value, often influenced by past negative experiences with Proton. There is skepticism about Proton’s claim to be comparable to premium brands, and some accuse the company of relying on protectionism and government support instead of improving product quality. Several comments criticize Proton’s management, aftersales service, and uncompetitive offerings, emphasizing that consumers wish for better, more modern vehicles. Overall, sentiments are largely negative, with many feeling Proton has failed to meet market expectations, leading graduates and other consumers to favor imported or used foreign cars over local products.