Core Viewpoint - The unveiling of the new Proton Saga and e.MAS 5 at the 47th ASEAN Summit marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between China's Geely Holding Group and Malaysia's Proton, indicating a new phase of deep integration in China-Malaysia economic and trade cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative [2][21]. Group 1: Collaboration and Development - The introduction of the new vehicles is a result of an 8-year partnership between Geely and Proton, which has transformed Proton from a struggling national brand into a competitive player in the automotive market [2][5]. - Geely's acquisition of a 49.9% stake in Proton in 2017 was initially met with skepticism, but it has since revitalized Proton's product offerings and market presence [5][15]. - The success of the Proton X70, introduced by Geely, has significantly improved Proton's cash flow and market visibility, leading to a successful electric vehicle (EV) transition with the e.MAS series [6][15]. Group 2: Technological and Industrial Advancements - Proton's first electric vehicle factory in Malaysia, inaugurated in September 2025, will initially have an annual production capacity of 20,000 units, expandable to 45,000 units, marking a significant step in the country's EV manufacturing capabilities [7][20]. - Geely's "Big Dipper Strategy" has systematically enhanced Proton's capabilities in product development, technology, talent, and management, creating a model known as the "Proton Model" [12][23]. - The establishment of Proton's first overseas R&D center in Ningbo, China, in April 2024 aims to deepen the integration of R&D capabilities between Proton and Geely [14][15]. Group 3: Market Performance and Future Outlook - Over the past 8 years, Proton has achieved significant improvements in R&D, manufacturing, quality, and marketing, maintaining the second position in Malaysia's automotive market for six consecutive years [15][24]. - Geely's sales figures reflect robust growth, with total sales reaching 2,953,452 units in the first three quarters of 2025, a 29% increase year-on-year, and EV sales growing by 68% [17][18]. - The collaboration between Geely and Proton is set to evolve into a broader initiative, with plans for the ASEAN High-Tech Valley (AHTV) to create a comprehensive ecosystem for new energy and technology development, aiming for an annual production capacity of 500,000 vehicles by 2035 [20][21].