Proton to sign agreement with foreign partner in March 2017

The ministry said the selection of a strategic partner is an important factor in the company

KUALA LUMPUR: Proton Holdings Bhd is expected to enter into a strategic partnership agreement with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) on March 31, 2017, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.

Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Ahmad Maslan said Proton would carry out an in-depth evaluation of two or three companies shortlisted to pick the best foreign partner.

“This will help spur Proton’s research and development, enabling it to become a viable and competitive car maker at the international level,” he said when responding to a question from Dr Che Rosli Che Mat (PAS-Hulu Langat).

Ahmad said Proton began identifying its strategic partner in June by sending out request for proposals to 14 OEMs.

To a question on how the all-new Proton Persona fared against Perodua Bezza, he said 7,464 units of Persona were sold since Aug 23 until October this year, while 22,799 Bezza were snapped up since July 21 until October this year.

“Both sedan models have attractive features, with Perodua Bezza categorised in the A segment and Proton Persona in the B segment,” he said. - Bernama