Proton X90 transports foreign delegates at 17th WCEC showcasing Malaysia-China relationship

KUALA LUMPUR:  Malaysia’s national automaker, Proton, played a significant role at the 17th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention (WCEC) by providing 20 units of its Proton X90 Flagship model to transport foreign dignitaries and business leaders. The event, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) from 9-11 September, saw top-level executives and VIP guests chauffeured in the brand’s premium SUV.

The convention, organised by the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), attracted a global audience. Attendees commended the Proton X90 for its comfort and spaciousness, particularly appreciating its three-row seating, Nappa leather interiors, and independent rear air-conditioning system. The dignitaries, who were ferried between meetings, appointments, and accommodations, expressed satisfaction with the SUV’s luxurious features.

Notably, Proton’s X90 was used for post-convention tours to Melaka, where Cheng Hong, Vice President of the China Overseas Chinese Association, and Wang Yanfei, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Sichuan Provincial People’s Congress, travelled to local tourist attractions. The vehicle’s generous cabin space and refined motoring experience were praised during these journeys.

Since its launch in May 2023, the Proton X90 has become one of the top-selling models in Malaysia’s D-segment SUV market, with over 7,322 units sold. The model also secured the "Local Car of the Year" award at the 2023 StarCarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards, cementing its position as a favorite among buyers less than six months after launch.

According to Proton, the SUV lineup is seen as a symbol of the deepening ties between Malaysia and China, particularly in light of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations. The Proton X90, as the automaker's first mild-hybrid model, stands as a product of the successful partnership between PROTON and Geely, which began seven years ago. The SUV’s introduction has revitalized PROTON's standing in the market, signaling a significant turning point for the company.

Positioned as a premium, three-row SUV, the Proton X90 delivers both value and sophistication, featuring advanced driving technology and the cutting-edge Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), ensuring a high level of safety for occupants.

This made the SUV an ideal vehicle to transport foreign delegates at the WCEC, which drew over 4,000 attendees from various regions, including China, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States. The event is expected to generate at least RM2 billion in potential business opportunities, particularly through post-convention business matching and investment showcases.

Under the theme "Reimagineering the Future," the conference was launched by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, along with key international figures such as Mr. Chen Xiaojiang, Vice President of the China Overseas Friendship Association, and Dr. Jonathan Choi Koon-shum, Chairman of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong.

"By providing 20 units of Proton X90 to this event, we are showcasing our commitment to excellence and fostering stronger economic ties across borders. This initiative represents our dedication to building a collaborative future and strengthening global partnerships in the automotive industry,” said Dr. Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.

Established in 1991, the WCEC has since evolved into a key global event that brings together entrepreneurs from around the world to explore business growth, new technology, and future-forward industries such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the green economy.

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