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].

Core Insights - The unveiling of the new Proton Saga and Proton e.MAS 5 during the ASEAN Summit symbolizes the deepening industrial collaboration between China and Malaysia, particularly in the automotive sector [1][3] - The partnership between Geely and Proton represents a successful model of cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, showcasing how capital, technology, and management can revitalize a struggling national brand [3][11] Automotive Industry Developments - Proton, once a loss-making brand, has transformed into a strong player in the Malaysian market, ranking second in sales and market share due to Geely's systematic input of capital, technology, and management [1][3] - The establishment of the Automotive High-Tech Valley (AHTV) aims to create an annual production capacity of 500,000 vehicles and a supply chain of 1 million parts by 2035, enhancing Malaysia's position in the ASEAN automotive value chain [3][4] Electric Vehicle Transition - Proton is undergoing a full-chain upgrade from traditional fuel vehicles to electric vehicles, with the launch of the e.MAS 7 marking the beginning of Malaysia's electric mobility era [6][7] - The e.MAS 5, positioned as an affordable electric vehicle, aims to increase local acceptance of electric cars, further expanding Proton's electric product line [6][7] Employment and Economic Impact - The collaboration has created over 150,000 jobs in the value chain, with expectations for more high-quality employment opportunities as the AHTV project progresses [4][5] - AHTV is recognized as a key project under Malaysia's 13th Malaysia Plan, attracting significant foreign investment and positioning itself as a hub for next-generation electric vehicle technology [4][5] Globalization and Strategic Partnerships - Geely's strategy has evolved from simple product exports to comprehensive value chain outputs, including technology and talent, enhancing its global presence [8][10] - The establishment of a joint venture with Renault for powertrain development signifies Geely's integration into the global automotive supply chain, focusing on hybrid and alternative fuel technologies [10] Conclusion - The Geely-Proton partnership exemplifies a successful model of cooperation that leverages capital, technology, and policy to achieve mutual benefits and industrial upgrades, serving as a replicable example for other developing countries [11]