KUALA LUMPUR: DRB-Hicom Bhd remains “highly committed” to hold a substantial and strategic stake in Proton Holdings Bhd, it said in a statement on Monday.
The conglomerate was responding to a report in a business weekly that, quoting a source, said DRB-Hicom had “made it clear” it was willing to sell up to 100% of Proton to foreign buyers.
“DRB-Hicom Bhd wishes to deny the statement suggesting it may dispose of all of its stake in Proton Holdings Bhd,” it said, adding that it was currently assisting Proton in its turnaround programme.
It noted that as part of the requirement of the RM1.5bil loan granted by the Government, Proton was currently undertaking a request for proposal (RFP) exercise seeking a partner to Proton that can provide a strategic, operational and cultural fit on a permanent basis with the intention to grow its automotive business.
“This exercise is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2017 and its implementation is being overseen by the Task Force Committee formed by the Government to monitor the turnaround of Proton,” it said.
DRB-Hicom said it would make the appropriate announcement(s) to Bursa Malaysia Securities Bhd in a timely manner as and when necessary.
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