KUALA LUMPUR (June 12): Proton Holdings Bhd said today that May 2018 car sales increased 2.3% to 4,091 units, from 3,999 vehicles in the previous month. Proton said the increase was largely due to Malaysia's zero-rated goods and services tax announcement, besides Proton's 0% financing promotion for the first year and free three-month instalment for customers.

In a statement today, Proton said May 2018 sales volume rose, despite uncertain market sentiment during the month.

"Saga and Persona continued to be the popular models for PROTON, dominating the sales figure and making up 70% of total sales for the month. PROTON subsequently recorded an unofficial 8.8% market share from the improved sales number," Proton said.

Proton Edar Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Abdul Rashid Musa said in the statement: “PROTON continuously strive to provide the best deals for its customers, as we realised that having good products alone is not enough, if there are no additional attraction to pull customers into our showroom." 

Abdul Rashid said Proton had concurrently put in place the right measures and effort for total quality improvement of its products, besides attractive offers for ease of car ownership. He said the upgrade of Proton dealers' outlets will prepare Proton to face the challenging market more positively.

According to the statement, Proton has also pledged its support for Tabung Harapan Malaysia. "As a responsible corporate citizen, PROTON has also pledged its support to Tabung Harapan Malaysia. PROTON will be contributing RM10 of each car sold from now until 31 December 2018 to the government fund, in response to the spirit of national unity and togetherness," Proton said.