Perodua to launch export model

Perodua to launch export model

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's second national carmaker, Perodua, said
on Monday it would launch a new export model in May, but called
for further state protection as the auto market gradually
liberalized under a regional free trade pact.

Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua (Perodua), which began operations in
1995 as a compact car producer, still needs government assistance
to grow its brand and build its niche market and capabilities,
said chairman Asmat Kamaludin.

The automaker has worked to enhance its quality, widen its
economies of scale and upgrade its vendors, but much more needs
to be done to prepare for a further opening of the market under
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations free trade area
agreement, he said.-- AFP