Proton announces the RM4.8 million Xchange Programme to replace obsolete vehicles with new versions

[MALAYSIA] Proton Holdings Bhd has introduced the Proton Xchange Programme to encourage owners of outdated, unsafe vehicles to trade them in for new Proton models.

In a recent statement, the car manufacturer explained that the initiative, conducted in collaboration with Car Medic Sdn Bhd – an authorised automotive treatment facility (AATF) – is open to owners of all vehicle brands.

A total of RM4.8 million has been earmarked for the programme’s pilot phase, which will run until December 2025. As part of the programme, Proton will offer RM2,000 in overtrade support for the registration of a new Proton vehicle, including the Proton e.MAS 7, Malaysia’s top-selling electric vehicle.

Beyond boosting sales, the Proton Xchange Programme is also a key step in promoting sustainable mobility, supporting Malaysia's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

To qualify for the incentive, vehicles must be at least 15 years old and deemed uneconomical to repair for safe use. This initiative aims to tackle the issue of aging vehicles that may pose safety risks and contribute to higher emissions, encouraging a shift towards newer, safer, and more environmentally friendly alternatives.

Eligible vehicles for trade-in include sedans, multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs), vans, 4x4s, lorries, and buses, provided they meet the specified criteria, with terms and conditions such as proof of ownership.

In addition to the RM2,000 overtrade support, new Proton vehicles registered under the programme will also receive one year of complimentary road tax, as announced by the Malaysian Minister of Transport.

Owners must submit a vehicle ownership certificate for the new car, along with a JPJK1KD form to confirm the old vehicle has been deregistered by the JPJ, and a Certificate of Destruction (COD) from Car Medic.

Car Medic, a Department of Environment (DOE)-certified and JPJ-authorised AATF since 2020, offers e-Dereg services as part of the programme. These services are available door-to-door or at Car Medic’s facility, handling all aspects of deregistration, towing, safe disposal, and COD issuance.

The e-Dereg service allows MyKad holders in select areas to complete the JPJ deregistration digitally at the vehicle's location, with the added convenience of supporting group e-Deregistration for more than five vehicles within two working days.

Proton’s CEO, Dr. Li Chunrong, emphasized that the Proton Xchange Programme represents a significant move toward a safer and greener automotive future for Malaysia, reflecting the company’s dedication to both its customers and the country.

This initiative is expected to drive growth in the automotive sector by creating greater demand for new vehicles while responsibly disposing of older ones, contributing to a more sustainable and safer transportation ecosystem.

“We hope this programme will incentivize the replacement of older vehicles with newer models, equipped with advanced safety features designed to reduce road hazards,” Dr. Li added.