No End In Sight
The conflict between Pak Lah and Tun Dr Mahathir, does not seem to be easing down despite mediation attempts by Tan Sri Khalil Yaakob - the current governor of Melaka and former Pahang Chief Minister.
It seems that Tun Mahathir still wants answers from Pak Lah on the 4 questions that he posed - and he seems to want the answers to come from Pak Lah, directly.
Whether he wants the replies given on a personal basis or announced to the public, is still unclear - although the signs are there, that he desires the latter. One wonders how this would lead to less conflict, though.
So far, the replies to Tun Mahathir's questions on both Proton (by Azlan Hashim, the Proton Chairman) and the bridge issue (by our Foreign Minister) has been forthcoming, but neither seems complete or to squarely answer the questions that Tun has asked.
Azlan Hashim's answers on Proton is nothing more than a repetition of the first explanation he gave (without details on the procedure of sale and the party purchasing MV Augusta) and certainly did not cover the reasons for the removal of Tengku Mahaleel.
Dato' Seri Syed Hamid Albar's replies on the other hand (on Singapore being the one asking for us to sell sand, a request which he claims has been forthcoming since under Tun Mahathir's administration) sounds like a half-clever explanation, but without actually relating it, to the half-bridge project and as to why it was called off.
But I guess the point that he was refuting was that the offer to sell sand to Singapore, came from Malaysia - the request came from Singapore, all along.
In effect, he's trying to quash any suspicions that the offer to sell sand came from parties that gained to benefit from the sale of sand, from the Malaysian side - which was what Tun Mahathir was implying.
Now, Tun Mahathir wants proof of such a thing - he's asking for the relevant documents recording such a request by Singapore and on the negotiations relating to the bridge, to be de-classified. Seemingly, the documents are still under the ambit of the Official Secrets Act, although it's not standard practice for governments to de-classify official secrets documents that are less than 20-30 years old.
And of course, currently, there are also allegations by the former Prime Minister that there are "3rd parties" controlling the administration.
The insinuations on "Oxbridge" qualifications and mention of the "4th floor" (where the PM's Policy and Communications Division is located) also implies that Pak Lah's son-in-law, Khairy Jamaluddin, is the one pulling the strings (even though he's not holding an official position there, anymore)
How these alleged "3rd parties" could control the collective decisions of the Cabinet, with Pak Lah's consultative and mild-mannered disposition, is a great mystery to me, though.
Most of all, it does not reflect well on the Ministers within the Cabinet.
The allegation, if true, says one of two things: either they don't know what they're doing or have collectively decided on and supported; or their collective hands have been tied, by the machinations of a 30-year old UMNO Youth politician, who happens to be the son-in-law of the Prime Minister.
Either ways, these are the sort of things that could rock the present-day Government. Between incompetence and complicity with a 3rd party, the Cabinet Ministers are looking a little untrustworthy.
*************************************************
Replies or no replies, mediation or no mediation by 3rd parties - this conflict is promising to be a long, dragging one. And one which threatens to split UMNO at the very core and affect political and economic stability.
And let's face it - the allegations are receiving undue attention from the public and the Opposition - not because of the gravity of the issues or the decisions per se - but because of the gravitas of the person saying it - a revered former Prime Minister of Malaysia, for 22 years.
It should be about accountability to the public, but in truth, it is about accountability to the former Prime Minister - because no questions would be as well-entertained by the Government of Malaysia - if they had been asked by Lim Kit Siang.
If we assume that if the persistent Tun Mahathir does not want this solved behind closed doors - and he wants the truth of the issues to be exposed publicly - it is obvious that there are end-objectives to this. What are these end-objectives, possibly?
Is it the early "retirement" of the alleged 3rd parties controlling the administration? (i.e. Khairy Jamaluddin, the 4th floor in Putrajaya and as accused by Matthias Chang, Datuk Kalimullah from New Straits Times?)
Is it the replacement of some members of the senior board members in Proton, whose answers on the procedure of sale of MV Augusta, has been less than satisfactory?
Is it the removal from the Cabinet of some of the Ministers involved in the 4 questions that Tun Mahathir has raised - namely, Dato' Seri Rafidah Aziz (on the AP issue) and Dato' Seri Syed Hamid Albar (on the half-bridge issue)? And perhaps, Dato' Seri Nazri Aziz, as well, for the way that he's replied to Tun Mahathir?
Or failing any of the above three - is it the early retirement of Pak Lah, himself?
Of course, no one is saying that Tun Mahathir could achieve any of the above - if they indeed, be his end-objectives. But it is quite enough that he is determined to achieve those objectives - that will make him the most painful headache for the Government of the day.
Never underestimate the influence of a former UMNO president - and if he's Dr Mahathir, double your guard.
********************************************************
Of the 4 issues, 3 issues are related to Proton - the sale of MV Augusta, the removal of Tengku Mahaleel as CEO of Proton and the issuance opf the AP issue (which Dr Mahathir has claimed has severely affected Proton's competitiveness in the local market)
When it comes to Proton, I think Malaysians are a hypocritical and ambivalent lot.
The concern is more of the fact that Proton as a Malaysian GLC should be run well and no public funds (or indirect subsidies, through taxes on foreign cars) should be extended from public funds to save it, in the form of a bail-out (like we've had to do for Malaysia Airlines, repeatedly).
But if we look at Proton's declining market share in the last few years (from above 60%, down to 30% now) - it proves that Malaysians have no love lost for the national car.
It's true what Tun Mahathir claims - that the APs given to Korean cars in the last few years, (like Kia or Hyundai) has greatly affected Proton's market share.
But if we're honest to ourselves, we would see that the biggest damage to Proton's market share has been inflicted by the Japanese cars like Toyota and Honda (or Japanese-owned national cars, like Perodua), who has gained the biggest market share, for cars below RM120K.
The truth is: Given the correct pricing and affordability range, Malaysians would consider a foreign make first, ahead of the national car. Even if they had to spend a little (or sometimes, a lot) more.
if Malaysians had to spend more 15K-20K more to get a Honda City, as compared to Proton Waja, they would. Or if they had to spend 15K-20K more to get a Corolla Altis or a Honda Civic, instead of a Perdana, they would.
And if most of them had to choose between the Toyota-owned Perodua MyVi and Proton Savvy - the winner is a no-brainer, despite being more expensive. The MyVi sales in the last 1 year, (about 40,000+ units)speak for themselves.
And for some families who prize functionality over looks, the 7-seater Toyota Avanza at close to 60K, would override their preference for Proton compact cars like Wira and Gen2. Just because it's a Toyota.
And of course, the popularity of the Hyundai models like Getz, Accent, Atos and Elantra has also affected the Proton market share too, where it competes in the same segments. Not to mention the rebadged Naza Citra, Naza Ria, Kia Spectra, Kia Novus, the Daewoo-made Chevy Aveo, etc.
But the Korean cars are only a contributing factor - the problem with Proton remains, at the very least, the public perception of its quality - in comparison to the other cars, especially the Japanese makes (including Perodua).
And it's a pity really, because from an exterior design perspective - Malaysians can design cars. Models like the Gen 2 and Satria Neo is ultimate proof of this - they're nicer and sleeker, than the models that the Koreans have to offer, in the same segment.
What's my point? The issues surrounding Proton from the 3 questions asked by Tun Mahathir will not be able to rock the Abdullah admnistration - when it comes to cars, price and perception of quality is king.
Malaysians will not shed a tear for Proton, for as long as they have access to cheaper cars. The significance of selling a strategic technology component for engine development within Proton, may be lost on them - why should they care if they're going to buy a Honda or a Toyota?
The only problem is - it's a self-fulfilling prophecy. Proton's major problem is that it cannot really sell cars, be it domestically or internationally. The more Proton's market share dwindles, the more unlikely it will be able to sustain itself in the future, without making further losses and without receiving Government support.
And this is the crux of Tun's argument on Proton - that Proton needs (more) time (and the right people) to build capabilities, to instill quality and to compete with the foreign makes.
And issues like the removal of Tengku Mahaleel, the sale of MV Augusta and the many APs issued to Korean cars - essentially, revolves around Proton's viability and survival - and where the Government stands on such issues. Because Dr Mahathir knows that the Malaysian car buyer, will not stand alongside Proton right now.
And therein lies the problem, in the muted public response to this issue and the 3 questions (aside from the fact that they think Tun Mahathir deserves an answer, even if it's not a very good one).
If they won't buy a Proton, would they care for Proton?
*******************************************************
It's the half-bridge issue that's a little tricky.
The allegations of selling out one's national sovereignty is a serious one. And selling it to the Singaporeans, whom Malaysians generally have a love-hate relationship with, makes the issue more difficult.
On this particular issue, I think Dr Mahathir stands on solid ground - because it's an issue which most Malaysians feel strongly about. Malaysians hate sell-outs, at the Government level.
And the allegations are serious - that someone in the Government is willing to sell sand to the Singaporeans to make money, at the risk inflicting economic damage on Malaysia. And that they're also willing to trade our air space in, as part of the negotiations of a full bridge.
And it even gets more compelling when there are insinuations that the companies selling the sand are linked to either the alleged "3rd parties" or to the Foreign Minister himself!
It is on this issue that Pak Lah will have to tread carefully.
Perhaps, it is wise for the Cabinet to revisit the half-bridge issue and reconsider building it, on the side of the Malaysian waters. This is especially so, if compensating the parties involved (like Gerbang Perdana and Johor state government) will cost almost just as much, as building the bridge. Better to pay for something, than to pay for nothing.
And I'm just counting the financial cost. The political cost could be fatal to Pak Lah - if the "national soverignty sell-out" allegations are proven to be true.
Sometimes, it is better to lose face than to lose the roof over your head, defending a mistake. Especially, if it's a Seri Perdana roof and you've got 24 million citizens under your leadership.
******************************************************
But this battle will be long and protracted - if Tun Mahathir does not get what he wants. A compromise here, would involve both parties getting a little of what they want. A win some, lose some for both parties. If one party tries to get all, both sides will be destroyed - regardless of who wins. UMNO will be severely damaged.
And needless to say, heads must roll. Heads in the Cabinet, heads in Proton and more likely, heads of some of the alleged "3rd parties" too. I can't imagine Tun Mahathir being satisfied with anything less.
One prays for wisdom from both sides. Jangan sampai jadi "menang bersorak, kampung tergadai". It would be a betrayal of the trust that the people have instilled in UMNO.
Both parties must remember that there are still 24 million Malaysians that still have to survive, in these challenging economic times and a rapidly globalizing world. And they will need a strong Government that focuses more on work and development, than politicking.
If we slip up on our development plans within the next 5 years, playing catch-up with other parts of the world, would be next to impossible. And by then, half a bridge or half a national car company, for that matter, would not matter, if our people are struggling to make ends meet.
This current situation reminds me of a line from the movie "Troy" - "War is a time when old leaders fight and young soldiers die".
Will our current leaders sacrifice the young and future generations, to satisfy their desires and squabbles?
May God save Malaysia.
It seems that Tun Mahathir still wants answers from Pak Lah on the 4 questions that he posed - and he seems to want the answers to come from Pak Lah, directly.
Whether he wants the replies given on a personal basis or announced to the public, is still unclear - although the signs are there, that he desires the latter. One wonders how this would lead to less conflict, though.
So far, the replies to Tun Mahathir's questions on both Proton (by Azlan Hashim, the Proton Chairman) and the bridge issue (by our Foreign Minister) has been forthcoming, but neither seems complete or to squarely answer the questions that Tun has asked.
Azlan Hashim's answers on Proton is nothing more than a repetition of the first explanation he gave (without details on the procedure of sale and the party purchasing MV Augusta) and certainly did not cover the reasons for the removal of Tengku Mahaleel.
Dato' Seri Syed Hamid Albar's replies on the other hand (on Singapore being the one asking for us to sell sand, a request which he claims has been forthcoming since under Tun Mahathir's administration) sounds like a half-clever explanation, but without actually relating it, to the half-bridge project and as to why it was called off.
But I guess the point that he was refuting was that the offer to sell sand to Singapore, came from Malaysia - the request came from Singapore, all along.
In effect, he's trying to quash any suspicions that the offer to sell sand came from parties that gained to benefit from the sale of sand, from the Malaysian side - which was what Tun Mahathir was implying.
Now, Tun Mahathir wants proof of such a thing - he's asking for the relevant documents recording such a request by Singapore and on the negotiations relating to the bridge, to be de-classified. Seemingly, the documents are still under the ambit of the Official Secrets Act, although it's not standard practice for governments to de-classify official secrets documents that are less than 20-30 years old.
And of course, currently, there are also allegations by the former Prime Minister that there are "3rd parties" controlling the administration.
The insinuations on "Oxbridge" qualifications and mention of the "4th floor" (where the PM's Policy and Communications Division is located) also implies that Pak Lah's son-in-law, Khairy Jamaluddin, is the one pulling the strings (even though he's not holding an official position there, anymore)
How these alleged "3rd parties" could control the collective decisions of the Cabinet, with Pak Lah's consultative and mild-mannered disposition, is a great mystery to me, though.
Most of all, it does not reflect well on the Ministers within the Cabinet.
The allegation, if true, says one of two things: either they don't know what they're doing or have collectively decided on and supported; or their collective hands have been tied, by the machinations of a 30-year old UMNO Youth politician, who happens to be the son-in-law of the Prime Minister.
Either ways, these are the sort of things that could rock the present-day Government. Between incompetence and complicity with a 3rd party, the Cabinet Ministers are looking a little untrustworthy.
*************************************************
Replies or no replies, mediation or no mediation by 3rd parties - this conflict is promising to be a long, dragging one. And one which threatens to split UMNO at the very core and affect political and economic stability.
And let's face it - the allegations are receiving undue attention from the public and the Opposition - not because of the gravity of the issues or the decisions per se - but because of the gravitas of the person saying it - a revered former Prime Minister of Malaysia, for 22 years.
It should be about accountability to the public, but in truth, it is about accountability to the former Prime Minister - because no questions would be as well-entertained by the Government of Malaysia - if they had been asked by Lim Kit Siang.
If we assume that if the persistent Tun Mahathir does not want this solved behind closed doors - and he wants the truth of the issues to be exposed publicly - it is obvious that there are end-objectives to this. What are these end-objectives, possibly?
Is it the early "retirement" of the alleged 3rd parties controlling the administration? (i.e. Khairy Jamaluddin, the 4th floor in Putrajaya and as accused by Matthias Chang, Datuk Kalimullah from New Straits Times?)
Is it the replacement of some members of the senior board members in Proton, whose answers on the procedure of sale of MV Augusta, has been less than satisfactory?
Is it the removal from the Cabinet of some of the Ministers involved in the 4 questions that Tun Mahathir has raised - namely, Dato' Seri Rafidah Aziz (on the AP issue) and Dato' Seri Syed Hamid Albar (on the half-bridge issue)? And perhaps, Dato' Seri Nazri Aziz, as well, for the way that he's replied to Tun Mahathir?
Or failing any of the above three - is it the early retirement of Pak Lah, himself?
Of course, no one is saying that Tun Mahathir could achieve any of the above - if they indeed, be his end-objectives. But it is quite enough that he is determined to achieve those objectives - that will make him the most painful headache for the Government of the day.
Never underestimate the influence of a former UMNO president - and if he's Dr Mahathir, double your guard.
********************************************************
Of the 4 issues, 3 issues are related to Proton - the sale of MV Augusta, the removal of Tengku Mahaleel as CEO of Proton and the issuance opf the AP issue (which Dr Mahathir has claimed has severely affected Proton's competitiveness in the local market)
When it comes to Proton, I think Malaysians are a hypocritical and ambivalent lot.
The concern is more of the fact that Proton as a Malaysian GLC should be run well and no public funds (or indirect subsidies, through taxes on foreign cars) should be extended from public funds to save it, in the form of a bail-out (like we've had to do for Malaysia Airlines, repeatedly).
But if we look at Proton's declining market share in the last few years (from above 60%, down to 30% now) - it proves that Malaysians have no love lost for the national car.
It's true what Tun Mahathir claims - that the APs given to Korean cars in the last few years, (like Kia or Hyundai) has greatly affected Proton's market share.
But if we're honest to ourselves, we would see that the biggest damage to Proton's market share has been inflicted by the Japanese cars like Toyota and Honda (or Japanese-owned national cars, like Perodua), who has gained the biggest market share, for cars below RM120K.
The truth is: Given the correct pricing and affordability range, Malaysians would consider a foreign make first, ahead of the national car. Even if they had to spend a little (or sometimes, a lot) more.
if Malaysians had to spend more 15K-20K more to get a Honda City, as compared to Proton Waja, they would. Or if they had to spend 15K-20K more to get a Corolla Altis or a Honda Civic, instead of a Perdana, they would.
And if most of them had to choose between the Toyota-owned Perodua MyVi and Proton Savvy - the winner is a no-brainer, despite being more expensive. The MyVi sales in the last 1 year, (about 40,000+ units)speak for themselves.
And for some families who prize functionality over looks, the 7-seater Toyota Avanza at close to 60K, would override their preference for Proton compact cars like Wira and Gen2. Just because it's a Toyota.
And of course, the popularity of the Hyundai models like Getz, Accent, Atos and Elantra has also affected the Proton market share too, where it competes in the same segments. Not to mention the rebadged Naza Citra, Naza Ria, Kia Spectra, Kia Novus, the Daewoo-made Chevy Aveo, etc.
But the Korean cars are only a contributing factor - the problem with Proton remains, at the very least, the public perception of its quality - in comparison to the other cars, especially the Japanese makes (including Perodua).
And it's a pity really, because from an exterior design perspective - Malaysians can design cars. Models like the Gen 2 and Satria Neo is ultimate proof of this - they're nicer and sleeker, than the models that the Koreans have to offer, in the same segment.
What's my point? The issues surrounding Proton from the 3 questions asked by Tun Mahathir will not be able to rock the Abdullah admnistration - when it comes to cars, price and perception of quality is king.
Malaysians will not shed a tear for Proton, for as long as they have access to cheaper cars. The significance of selling a strategic technology component for engine development within Proton, may be lost on them - why should they care if they're going to buy a Honda or a Toyota?
The only problem is - it's a self-fulfilling prophecy. Proton's major problem is that it cannot really sell cars, be it domestically or internationally. The more Proton's market share dwindles, the more unlikely it will be able to sustain itself in the future, without making further losses and without receiving Government support.
And this is the crux of Tun's argument on Proton - that Proton needs (more) time (and the right people) to build capabilities, to instill quality and to compete with the foreign makes.
And issues like the removal of Tengku Mahaleel, the sale of MV Augusta and the many APs issued to Korean cars - essentially, revolves around Proton's viability and survival - and where the Government stands on such issues. Because Dr Mahathir knows that the Malaysian car buyer, will not stand alongside Proton right now.
And therein lies the problem, in the muted public response to this issue and the 3 questions (aside from the fact that they think Tun Mahathir deserves an answer, even if it's not a very good one).
If they won't buy a Proton, would they care for Proton?
*******************************************************
It's the half-bridge issue that's a little tricky.
The allegations of selling out one's national sovereignty is a serious one. And selling it to the Singaporeans, whom Malaysians generally have a love-hate relationship with, makes the issue more difficult.
On this particular issue, I think Dr Mahathir stands on solid ground - because it's an issue which most Malaysians feel strongly about. Malaysians hate sell-outs, at the Government level.
And the allegations are serious - that someone in the Government is willing to sell sand to the Singaporeans to make money, at the risk inflicting economic damage on Malaysia. And that they're also willing to trade our air space in, as part of the negotiations of a full bridge.
And it even gets more compelling when there are insinuations that the companies selling the sand are linked to either the alleged "3rd parties" or to the Foreign Minister himself!
It is on this issue that Pak Lah will have to tread carefully.
Perhaps, it is wise for the Cabinet to revisit the half-bridge issue and reconsider building it, on the side of the Malaysian waters. This is especially so, if compensating the parties involved (like Gerbang Perdana and Johor state government) will cost almost just as much, as building the bridge. Better to pay for something, than to pay for nothing.
And I'm just counting the financial cost. The political cost could be fatal to Pak Lah - if the "national soverignty sell-out" allegations are proven to be true.
Sometimes, it is better to lose face than to lose the roof over your head, defending a mistake. Especially, if it's a Seri Perdana roof and you've got 24 million citizens under your leadership.
******************************************************
But this battle will be long and protracted - if Tun Mahathir does not get what he wants. A compromise here, would involve both parties getting a little of what they want. A win some, lose some for both parties. If one party tries to get all, both sides will be destroyed - regardless of who wins. UMNO will be severely damaged.
And needless to say, heads must roll. Heads in the Cabinet, heads in Proton and more likely, heads of some of the alleged "3rd parties" too. I can't imagine Tun Mahathir being satisfied with anything less.
One prays for wisdom from both sides. Jangan sampai jadi "menang bersorak, kampung tergadai". It would be a betrayal of the trust that the people have instilled in UMNO.
Both parties must remember that there are still 24 million Malaysians that still have to survive, in these challenging economic times and a rapidly globalizing world. And they will need a strong Government that focuses more on work and development, than politicking.
If we slip up on our development plans within the next 5 years, playing catch-up with other parts of the world, would be next to impossible. And by then, half a bridge or half a national car company, for that matter, would not matter, if our people are struggling to make ends meet.
This current situation reminds me of a line from the movie "Troy" - "War is a time when old leaders fight and young soldiers die".
Will our current leaders sacrifice the young and future generations, to satisfy their desires and squabbles?
May God save Malaysia.
posted by Stingrayz | 5:47 PM
25 Comments:
on proton.. it just shows that the people want QUALITY.
what use is a beautiful car that falls apart within a year?
what use is good handling if your power window breaks down everytime you take a corner aggressively?
proton needs MORE time? how much more? when you're playing catch-up, you need to be quicker than the guy in front. if he did something in 30 years, you have to do it faster, say 20. if he took 20 then you have to do it in 15 or 10.
when you consider how proton has been shortchanging the common people since its inception, can you blame the people for not caring? i mean, which other car maker sells inferior products to its own people while charging them HIGHER prices than foreigners?
Desparil:
I TOTALLY agree with you.
But I think it's Tun Mahathir's perspective - that Proton needs more time, (yes, even more than the 20 years we've given them) more technology acquisition and R&D, more time to institute quality control measures and inevitably, get more sales.
The tricky part is when you need more sales, WHILE you're doing the first 3.
The only way you're going to manage that, is by way of prolonged protectionism and unfair indrect subsidies.
And this is the basic economic difference in economic philosophy between Tun's and Pak Lah's economic philosophy.
One believes in the benefits of protectionism to create a technology-savvy Honda-like company (and inevitably, sacrificing a few generations of domestic consumers, in the process) and the other, does not.
And the sad result is, in this country, for a young executive starting out, paying instalments for a good car will take up to 20-30% of his monthly salary.
But yes, catching up does require you to to be faster than the guy in front.
And for an example - look no further than Hyundai, who only started in the 90's (later than Proton) but has managed to sell more than a million cars, in the US alone.
And quality-wise, they're catching up fast with Honda (although design-wise, I think Proton designers are better) according to international car quality ratings.
(I think past press statements from Proton from last year, shows that we've sold less than 30,000 cars, outside of Malaysia)
The whole world can't all be stupid on this issue, right?
If the car is competitively good, they'll be buying it like hot cakes.
But the numbers speak for themselves.
all this talk about cars from a guy who doesn't even have a driving licence..:)
Anonymous:
Low blows, can only come from short guys. :)
I'm a Malaysian. Everyone has an opinion on how to run the country, even if they've never been a Prime Minister.
Plus, it's all common-sense political, economics and business issues, I'm talking about here.
You don't require a driving license, to have a brain. :)
Stay safe Stingray. God speed.
(Which is my wish for anyone who really cares a damn about these things, unlike indifference ingoramuses* like me)
*pardon the misuse of penjodoh bilangan.
... and the spelling errors! EGAD!
You will recall my view that the public doesn't really "connect" with the 4 issues. AP maybe yes, then bridge, then Agusta and most irrelevant, Mahaleel's contract.
TDM has the right to air his concerns, of course, and my preference is still not closed door mediation but a public settlement. But this must be brought to a closure soon, as it seems to be distracting ministers from the business of governing.
(Last two? France, Germany.)
Anon 2
Anonymous:
France - Germany final. I hope so - hate to see the "cheating" portuguese and "corrupt" Italians in it. And, as much as it wrenches my heart to say this, I hope the frenchies win - if only because Zainuddin (I'm told it has the same root word for Zinedine) Zidane is still a class act and for the injustice that harald schumacher inflicted on Battiston in the 82 semis.
Anyway to more (or less, depending on your point of view) important stuff.
I think Proton was not necessarily a bad idea when it was started. But fate was against us from the start. Like it or not, TDM got screwed by the Japanese. Mitsubishi wasn't going to "give" us any technology xcept those that it didn't want. Then our own nationalism (or was it cronyism) got the better of us - it should have been led and run by up and coming car executives who's had experience in growing a car company. It's not saying Msians are useless - on the contrary but you need experience and if the best guy is a Bajau (not picking on the ethicity but just being random about it) who's cut his teeth with a VW or Toyota or GM, then so be it. And just like a responsible parent, we should have given the kid a leg up, but for a finite period of time. The fact that protectionism still exist today showed how irresponsible we were in the late eighties and early nineties. It's too late now - Proton is like Matthew McConaughey's character in "Failure to Launch" - he just won't move out of his parent's home. Life's just too good.
So fundamentally, Proton's problem is not the the APS given to Kia and Naza over the last few years per se (I don't actually agree with APs given to SM Nasimuddin btw to rebadge essentially a Korean car but that's another issue). That is like saying until and unless Proton feels able to leave the parent's home, nobody can sell cars in this country at a cheaper price. What if Proton never feels like leaving? Then what? We might as well ban all foreign cars and everyone can be like India in the 80s) and drive just one make.
No - the issue is squarely on TDM's doorstep. He allowed his "child" to be so handicapped that except spending all of Petronas money to takeover a Korean Car company or a German car company, it is too late. Buying MV Augusta to create a mass market car company is like someone it will buy over Apple's Mac OS system in order to compete with Microsoft Windows. Mac OS is infact a much better system than Windows but it is not, and will not be, a mass market product. So my point is that maybe, just maybe (by a v long stretch of imagination) Augusta could give Proton some niche technoloy for a niche market, but it will never allow us to make the jump to compete with the Koreans and the Japanese. Only TDM believes otherwise. Yes, the fact that Proton refuses to give an answer on this point is troubling and for that reason, and that reason alone, TDM has the right (just like all Proton shareholders and members of the public since it's a national car) to get some answers. I'm glad he is doing that.
But the fact that he is right to ask the question and all of us enjoy seeing the govt squirming in their comfy seats and having to churn so reasonable and coherent answer doesn't mean that what TDM's belief of Proton is right.
And let's not blame joe public. Put it this way, in these difficult times, if you can afford Mcdonalds, you will go Mcdonalds. If not, Burger Ramly will have to do.
And that's what Car buyers are doing - they buy what they can afford and if they can't afford but still need transport, they buy the cheapest. It's got nothing to do with whether it's Msian or not. It's like when Japanese cars first arrive on our shores, pple bought Jap because it was cheaper than European or American cars.
As far as I'm concerned, Proton has 2 options: (a) buy over a mass market manufacturer; or (b) become a niche player. Forgot a JV - we have nothing to bring to the table so we'get screwed again. I shouldn't need to remind everyone of the saying once B****ed twice shy (ok - my modification :)
Tun is to be respected for a lot of things. Proton is probably not one of them unless you consider enriching lots of pple through Proton Edar and the selling of overpriced spare parts an economic success. So he deserves not just to be treated with civility (everyone deserves that so Nazri should really learn some manners) but also with more media space than you or I. That said, on this point, he is wrong nevertheless.
Keropok:
Thanks for your wishes. Am still safe - I think. ;)
Anon 2:
Yes, I recall your views on that one.
As for a public settlement, things seem to be looking that way.
Hope the consequences to UMNO and Malaysians generally, can be contained.
As for the World Cup finals, although I would love to see a France/Germany final - I personally think, that Portugal has what it takes to make it through to the finals.
The 2nd Anon 2:
Good opinion piece. :)
I agree with you and could not have argued it better, myself.
I'm looking forward to Italy - Portugal finale,drama queens and corrupt people nonetheless. If it turns out to be Germany - France, I'm watching the third placing playoff. Some people just want to enjoy the visuals hahaha!
Good thing you don’t own a car.
Proton makes me mad. Their cars are poorly made and customer service sucks. Mind you, I was a Proton supporter. My first car, way back in 1991, was a Proton Saga. I was pretty happy with it, and after 5 years I sold it in 1996 for almost the same price I paid.
Two years ago, my wife upgraded from a Kancil to a Gen-2. Within 2 months, she was clamoring to sell the car. One of the doors does not shut properly and there was a recall of the shock absorbers. There were problems with the ignition and the air-conditioning. Starting the car caused electrical sparks, and caused a lot anxiety because I read of a case of a Gen-2 engine burning up.
It took two trips to the service center, and even though the car was under warranty, Proton charged for the replacement of the fuses.
The air-conditioning problem took longer to fix, I think four trips, and having to leave the car there for ½ day. Then the car door remote didn’t work. It hasn’t worked for over a year, and you can’t have it fixed in Proton, but one of their suppliers. I am overseas and my wife doesn’t know how to get to the supplier.
As anon 2 says, once B****ed twice shy. You won’t find me buying another Proton again, ever.
In this day and age, you need to run just to stay in the same place. And as far as I am concerned, Proton is not even walking. It’s gotten worse now compared with 10 years ago. They are a national DISGRACE.
And one more thing… How many cases of have you read of whole families wiped out in HORRIFIC accidents on our roads? I have seen Kancils crammed full of people traveling outstation at high speed. I have nothing against Kancils. But I blame the high cost of protecting Proton that cause people (especially the rural folk who cannot afford bigger cars) to use an unsafe car for long distance travel. F***, F***, F***.
Voice:
Aiya, you so shallow one, maaaa,...;)
Babu:
Sorry to hear about your experience with your Proton Gen 2, bro'. :(
I think if Proton is to survive, it needs to lessen its average defects per car (which is about 8, currently) closer to where Toyota is (at 0.02 defects per car).
Once it's got the quality control sorted out, it then needs to massively rebrand like Czech national car Skoda did, (after it was taken over by Volkswagen) to reverse the negative image associated with its quality and durability.
You know you've reached the standard required when people would buy Proton not because it's cheaper (and possibly, patriotism) but because it stands as a competitive choice, next to Hyundai, Honda and Toyota cars.
How Proton reaches that point, is not as important, as to whether Proton reaches there at all. It's a matter of survival, really.
Otherwise, Proton better prepare to be wiped out in Malaysia - once Perodua decides to step into the 1.5 segment.
shallow or not, HALF OF MY WISH COMES TRUE ALREADY! LoL.
Oklah, lets talk about the real shop issue here, i.e. proton. I personally like Satria, and wish I had one GTI. But being the good daughter that I am, I adhere to my parents' wish for me not to buy a Satria, based on their perceptions on the questionable quality of Proton cars. My dad only bought one Saga in the 10-to-12-year period of his ever-changing cars until my mom brought back their real passion from UK in 1994 (it's a Merc.)
So...IMO, Proton also has the general perception issue to manage, besides all the obvious facts that you have presented in a well-written piece, together with a number of equally well-written comments you have here.
It's a pity that a lot of people don't think like Tun (Dr M).
He wants Augusta because of it's technology. Most people dont understand that.
Look at Honda, Suzuki, Toyota.. they started with motorcycle technology. And now they produce some of the world's best cars.
Ok. I'm rambling. Anyway, I still think Dr M is very smart.
You take care.. :)
Pixie,
That's why I don't see the logic in Tun's idea of buying a motorcycle manufacturer...
Proton who has already started walking, is learning to crawl by buying Augusta. Honda, Suzuki and Toyota started with motorcycle technology, then only they moved to cars.
What Proton should do right now is to go back to the basics. The rest will come in. Having all the technology does not mean a thing if there's no quality.
Remember, the KISS principle is the best, Keep It Simple Stupid!
Toyota focussed on quality, and once it is sorted, they can concentrate on technology. If the quality is not taken care of, they got two things to handle...
Proton can do it. I believe they can do it, but please, no more political interference, and let the CEO focus on the Quality. The rest will come...
Voice:
Agreed, my dear. :)
Looks like it's going to be a France-Italy final. Aiyooooo,..
Pixie and Ervan:
I'm still open to the possibilty that the Augusta acquisition was a good purchase, from a technology perspective.
But we'll never know one way or another - because execution speed was awfully slow. The usual Malaysian story - good plan but poor implementation.
I was told by sources close to Proton that no R&D synergizing was done with Augusta, in the 1 year after it was acquired (even though MV Augusta was financially bleeding and draining Proton's annual profits)
Strategic technology aside - Ervan's right - back to basics, is the way to go, for Proton's survival.
Quality and design (and in Proton's case, perception) are the key drivers to more sales and growth - and at least, Proton is improving in the design aspect.
And the current CEO, Syed Zainal is working on that.
Give Proton time to come up with the right moves to compete, locally and internationally.
On a side note,
I sending my Japanese friend back to his hotel at KL Sentral when a Proton Gen 2 whizzed by. A very nicely modified Gen 2.
My Japanese friend liked the car. And he kinda like Gen 2's basic design.
So, in terms of design. External design of course, Proton is there, if that's an indication.
Quality is more important.
Stingray bro,
The jury's still out on the MV Augusta purchase. I believe it is not the right way to do.
Even with Tun's brilliance, he is not always right as he is human. :)
Hey bro,
I am left in fear of the prospects of the implication of what is about to come in the near
I am left in fear with the prospects of the implication of all of this. The media for one is actually engaging this in a highly negative mode , especially with todays coverage on the TR issue which is a clearly planned attack to Dr M in retaliation.
I seek for all of you to take more focus on what the implication is in the days after , there will be a real effect in the economy , foreign investors are watching us closely and i know this for sure , some have plans to redivert their funds as early as end of the year if situation does not improve.
If you know whats happening behind the scene you will understand why Tun is pursuing this seriously, there is more to what we have been fed with,
The media however is being strategically used as a means of defence/retaliation at the expense of our economy and the Malays (am not referring to UMNO or opposition but all Malays in general)
Ervan:
Yes, I agree.
Never doubted that Dr Mahathir is human - but he's from special breed of strong leaders - like Winston Churchill, Maggie Thatcher, F.D. Roosevelt, Sukarno, Lee Kuan Yew, Fidel Castro, etc.
And these sort of leaders have the ability to inspire unquestioning blind allegiance and loyalty amongst their followers.
And they should never be underestimated.
Rizal Alwani:
I agree with you that we should focus on the economy and the bigger picture.
As for the Government-owned media, they've been behaving like this for years - even before Pak Lah took over.
The only way to have a truly independent media is to prohibit newspapers from being Government-owned (or owned by the parties belonging to the ruling coalition and the Opposition)
Stop short of that and Government-owned newspapers serve whoever are the elected Government, of the day.
To ask for press freedom and impartiality under such conditions is tantamount to naivety.
Things have been happening behind the scenes for a long time, bro'.
The stinking rot that has entrenched itself into our education system, our political system and representatives, our business environment, competitiveness, merit and ethics, is not new.
It started a long time ago - it has unfairly benefited the few privileged and patronaged Malaysians (of all races) and left the Malaysian majority to be unduly grateful or constantly dissatisfied with the economic "crumbs".
The Malays (or other Malaysians) have always been victimized by the political control of a few leaders.
It's just a matter of whether they know it or they don't.
We spend so much of our time being scared of foreign economic tyrants, that we've taken our eyes off the local economic thieves and pirates, who have been stealing and robbing from Malaysians for decades.
This is nothing new - the leaders at the top may change, but seemingly the UMNO/Barisan rules of the game remains constant.
And honestly, I'm not interested in who wins the battle between Pak Lah and Tun.
Because all Malaysians lose, regardless of who wins.
Because the only way that Malaysians can win, is if our leaders are truly interested in substantive change - and not in who wears the crown and controls the economic patronage table.
In a split where political manners are absent and where there are no rules (go ask Anwar Ibrahim), where hypocrites lead the so-called interest of the people and where greed, nepotism and corruption overrides all merit in competition and distribution - does it matter who wins?
I can't tell you who will win - but I think we can all guess who stands to lose the most.
And we deserve it, if we choose to take sides with leaders that do not really have our interest at heart - but their own.
I always get depressed reading commentary about our country.
Anyway, what is all this talk about an Oxford mafia??? In the few days that I've been back here, I've been asked about that numerous times already.
Elina:
Haiya - don't lah be depressed.
Same old thing maaa,...you're just not used to it anymore, because you've been away for quite a while. :)
Oxford mafia? Wrong person to ask, dear - am not from Oxford. Didn't you go to Oxford University? ;)
I think the term "Oxbridge graduates" in Malaysia have been flaunted about and abused, though.
It now seems to include everyone that is in the Abdullah administration policy circles - even if they're from universities in Bristol, London School of Economics, Michigan in Anne Arbor, Warwick, etc.
The facts don't seem to matter to people. I wonder why,....
I have no comment re: Oxford mafia. Mafiosi don't usually kiss and tell :P But you already know why the facts don't matter to people, whaaaat...
Elina:
Ah! So you ARE admitting that you're part of the Oxford Mafia, Seniorita Elina...;)
I am on a job trip to Penang , checked in at Evergreen Laurel on Gurney drive, its not that I am rarely here its just this time around its a working visit, Only in the hotel that i started folowing the Israel- Lebanon war via BBC , Once again , I am reminded that there would not be too long before bigger things to come, Scary and sad is the feeling that lingers, how long would it be before a bigger catastrophy 10 years, 5 years or even less. What happens after Lubnan? , then Iran will be attacked its a no brainer anymore whatever the reasons the media champions for America and Israel, commonsense tells us that there is greed at stake, Oil is a bloody currency and greed is championed and the people in power directs a now obvious media and strategy . We are no longer a stranger to tactical strategies deployed by the US and Israel to ensure their policies are accepted.
However the consequences are tremendous, Lives are merely collateral and capital for Oil and water. However the strength of the other side remains to be seen , its always a guerilla styled defense seen in Afghanistan, Iraq and now probably harder Hezbollah and later Iran.I have learned to read between the lines and how brilliantly the Americans play the issue and direct the media to their side . There will never be voices representing the other side . United Nations has always been a controlled organisation that lacks any form of strength.
My point to where my circle of influnce is how long before it turns into an ugly war, You cant kill our brothers and expect us to keep at bay for long for now the muslims around the world are praying to Allah. There would be further consequences and hoping that all of these invasion would stop is always too realistic and optimistic and contradicts with the greed at heart.
Back at home is where the politicians who are fighting amongs themselves , Greed is the very same reason behind. A sad infighting episode between the two premeries are merely a reflection of the greed and powerplay behind what has been planned, whether your a believer of the Khairy crhonicles or not or whether you think that there are sides to be on . Realistically were destroying the malays.
You cant really place a malay or bumiputera indegenous community anymore, we have become less of a malay and less of a muslim everyday. With MPs reflecting greed ignorantly like the MP jasin, and the harsh and rude bashing ofthe late premier by some Ministers. Divide and Conquer is a long established tactical plot used in various battles and as if that were ignorant we are trapped in our own dillemas be it the global muslim dilemma and the so called muslim malay.
The new generation has even made to forget the social contract that has been the key to the success of malaysia, the malaysian malaysia is never a new subject it is a propogated subject championed by Lee Kuan Yew in order to take control of Malaysia during those days. I dont blame the immaculate belief that the world should be fair even up to the point not realising the imbalance of pre honoured social contract was. How much of pain do the generation X have suffered in the greed driven political days of post Merdeka generation. How true and strong are UMNO in comparison to the Merdeka generation. When government contracts are the kpi of a successful leader and the Mercedesz benz is a god given right to a member of parliament.
I am not an opposition member, i am ashamed of the ruling party , I am a muslim living in Malaysia first and foremost who have been enlightened by Allah's blessing to have been made aware of the thin line between what is perceived and what is the "system" is all about. Anyone who is preview of the knowledge of how Malaysia has grown from the May 13th riot to this date today can feel the pain and the bleak future of the malays. A political party that have the tendency to shoot itself on its foot. How the media now , playing a destructuve role under the name of transparency exudes immaturity and digression . A strategical play without the wisdom of knowing the impact on the social contract , the unity and the economy that somehow or rather is not obviously linked to events that is deeply routed and greed based.
However how do we perceive this progress or digress you may call it , do you call the current political conditions a consolidation period , can we afford this disunity when the opposition are gaining strength by the day, when the political climate of the world seems more precarious and uncertain. I am not surprised if in years to come we will be like Singapore subjected to a rewriting of history to support and further divide us.
Our new generation's perception of Merdeka is no more than a holiday with Merdeka Race as a nation building highlight of the day where is the continuity when the grassroots of our political party knows and abides by the weak formula and foundation of current UMNO structure , The indigenous community are victimised and are always labelled as pushovers , in the name of transparency , globalisation the social contract that our ancestors sweat blood fighting for will slowly be forgotten in the greed.
Do we still dream of the global future when war seems more likely. Have we accepted greed in our system and let us be controlled by it, we already did. here in Malaysia and everywhere else in the world.
I dont really know how long we can survive ..... I hope you do...
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