Latest Featured Stories

• 

  Kia Carnival FL – 2.2D, 11/7 seats, fr RM189k

• 

  BMW i5 CKD launched, 1st CKD BMW EV, fr RM369k

• 

  2026 Mercedes CLA in MY - 792km range, RM296k

• 

  Proton eMas 7 PHEV - RM110k-130k estimated

• 

  Toyota Vellfire Hybrid Malaysia – RM550k!

• 

  Proton X70 MC3 launched – 1.5T 4-cyl, fr RM100k

Latest Stories

• 2025 Malaysia new car sales TIV hit record 820,752 units, Dec and Q4 also highest-ever month/quarter

  In Cars, Local News, MAA Vehicle Sales Data / by Jonathan James Tan / 20 January 2026 2:25 pm

  

  Malaysia’s appetite for cars is just… shocking. In a land of well under 40 million people, we bought 820,752 new cars last year (yet another record), or 0.5% more than 2024’s 816,747. This is also the second time we’ve broken 800k in a calendar year.

  December 2025 was a record month (90,716 new cars found homes, beating the previous record of 81,735 units in December 2024) and Q4 2025 was a record quarter (241,416 units).

  The Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) attributes the performance to robust economic growth (GDP +4.7% in first three quarters of 2025), strong domestic demand, recovering exports, favourable financing (OPR down to 2.75% since July), socio-political stability, low unemployment (2.9%, an 11-year low), strong order backlogs especially in the A-segment, the EV rise (+78%) and aggressive promos.

  

  Driven by the SUV craze, passenger vehicles expanded 13% to 228,572 units in 2025 compared to 2024’s 201,565 units, while commercial vehicles contracted for the second year running (-11% versus -14% in 2024) as diesel subsidies became targeted in June 2024.

  In terms of production, 747,780 vehicles were manufactured in Malaysia in 2025 (-5% versus 2024’s 790,347 units), demonstrating the might of fully-imported (CBU) EVs, for which demand spiked ahead of the year-end expiry of CBU EV incentives.

  What about national versus non-national makes? The national team jumped 1.1% to 511,468 units (62.3% market share, up from 2024’s 61.9%) while the non-nationals were down 0.6% to 309,258 units (311,058 in 2024), mainly because of a lower commercial vehicle contribution (8% compared to 9%).

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• No price increase for CKD cars in July 2026, OMV/402 issue resolved, delay to finalise calculations – MAA

  In Cars, Local News / by Danny Tan / 20 January 2026 2:17 pm

  

  It’s good news for the Malaysian automotive industry as the open market value (OMV) excise duty revision issue that crops up every year end, threatening price increases of up to 30% for CKD locally assembled cars, has been finally resolved. For good.

  In December 2025, we reported Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) president Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain saying that although the PU(A) 402/2019-Excise Tax Regulations (Determination of Value of Locally Produced Goods for Excise Tax Purposes), will be implemented this year, it will incorporate a new method that will have ‘very little or no impact to pricing’ of CKD cars.

  Then, just before 2025 ended, the finance ministry announced that the OMV revision, which was supposed to begin in January 2026, has been deferred once more, this time by six months. Turns out that there’s nothing to be feared about this latest deferment, and the lingering issue has indeed been solved.

  

  Mohd Shamsor, at today’s annual MAA 2025 review/2026 outlook briefing, said that the extra six months is just for relevant parties to ‘finalise calculations’ – there was no last minute twist in December. “We have been given the understanding that basically, the impact that we’re working on will be very minimal, or even zero impact,” Mohd Shamsor said today.

  “The reason why it takes about six more months is that they have to finalise (the calculations) because the different OEMs (doing CKDs) have different ways of declaring their business. So they have to fine-tune and make sure it’s a fair proposal, to make sure that it’s being managed in a level playing field. So that’s why they need the additional six months, to finalise the calculation,” he explained.

  What’s this OMV/402 issue all about again? Here’s an explainer on the bullet we’ve been dodging for years, and how we got here. The controversial ‘402’ – gazetted on the last day of 2019 – stipulated a new methodology of calculating a CKD vehicle’s OMV, which influences how much tax is to be paid and therefore, its selling price. OMV is defined as the final market value of a CKD vehicle ex-factory, before the government imposes excise duties on it.

  

  It’s primarily made up of the cost of the CKD pack, cost of manufacturing and components as well as assembly and administration charges. Note that fully-imported (CBU) vehicles use a different system – prices for these are based on Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF), on which import and excise duties are imposed.

  The PH-era regulations set that in calculating OMV, one must take into account not just the profit and general expenses incurred or accounted in the manufacture of a vehicle, but also of its sale. It was this ‘sale’ clause that got industry players up in arms, because it involved areas such as engineering, development work, art work, design work, plan and sketch, royalty payments and license fees (patent, trademark, copyright). Think of it as ‘factory costs’ plus ‘office costs’.

  The regulations were supposed to come into force in 2020, but 22 days into that pandemic year, MAA announced that the finance ministry had deferred implementation to 2021. By end-2020, it was deferred again, and MAA appealed to the government in 2022 for continued deferment, which was successful – a two-year deferment was granted, until December 31, 2024. The latest deferment is until December 31, 2025.

  

  As you can imagine, this uncertainty isn’t good for a company’s planning, forecasting and operations. Without clarity, investments will also be hampered – no one wants to invest in local production and ‘live on the edge’ every December hoping for the best. No exaggeration here – the second deferment was announced just two days before 2021 ended!

  If prices of CKD cars do go up by as much as 30%, perhaps OEMs will not bother with the hassle of local production and just bring in CBU imports – this would be a loss for the industry and country. Yes, the government would collect more taxes with the revised OMV in the short term, but if higher prices damage sales volume (all-time high in 2024, we have momentum), production and eventually job opportunities for the rakyat, it could be an example of being penny-wise but pound-foolish.

  Perhaps the subsequent administrations after Pakatan Harapan did see the logic behind the auto industry’s argument, hence the constant stays of execution, but kicking the can down the road via annual deferments surely isn’t the way to go.

  In early 2025, the finance ministry said that “MoF, together with MITI and the automotive industry, is currently reviewing the vehicle valuation method to ensure that the imposition of tax is carried out in a fair, neutral and consistent manner”. Looks like the government and the auto industry have finally found common ground. Case closed, finally.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• 2026 BYD Seal Premium and Performance Malaysian review – new DiSus-C adaptive suspension any good?

  In BYD, Car Reviews, Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News, Video Reviews, Videos / by Jonathan James Tan / 20 January 2026 1:13 pm

  

  The BYD Seal got updated in Malaysia last August with a pair of variants on offer – the RM172k one-motor RWD Premium and the RM192k two-motor AWD Performance. These prices are around RM8k less than before, although the outgoing cars were offered with big five-figure discounts.

  You do get quite a bit extra now, however – new multi-spoke alloys (still 19-inch units with 235/45 tyres), a powered sunroof blind (finally!), a sunglasses compartment located next to the driver’s head, and you can now use your phone as the car key.

  The range-topping Performance gains red brake callipers and – here’s the big one – an adaptive DiSus-C continuous damping control system, something like the Denza D9‘s. Now blessed with this, it can hands dow its frequency selective damping (FSD) suspension to the Premium variant, which didn’t have it before.

  Ceteris paribus otherwise – the 313 PS/360 Nm Premium does 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and the 530 PS/670 Nm Performance in 3.8 seconds, 82.5 kWh LFP Blade battery for both variants yielding 570 and 520 km WLTP respectively, plus 150 kW DC (30-80% in 32 minutes) and 7 kW AC (empty to full in 15.2 hours) charging. Hafriz Shah drives both Seal variants back to back here – find out what he thinks.

  2025 BYD Seal Premium and Performance in Malaysia

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  2025 BYD Seal Premium in Malaysia

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  
  

  2025 BYD Seal Performance in Malaysia

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  
  

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• 2026 Proton eMas 7 CKD – local-assembly adds spec upgrades, price now under RM100k, RM6k cheaper

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Mick Chan / 20 January 2026 12:51 pm

  

  Proton has announced the introduction of the locally assembled (CKD) Proton eMas 7 EV, which goes on sale in two variants. This will emerge from Proton’s dedicated EV plant in Tanjong Malim, though production has yet to commence; roll-out and deliveries will be announced soon.

  Priced at RM103,800 for the Prime, and RM119,800 for the Premium, the locally assembled duo is offered from the outset with a limited-time RM4,000 rebate which brings the prices to RM99,800 for the Prime, and RM115,800 for the Premium in Peninsular Malaysia.

  Pricing in East Malaysia is RM102,800 for the Prime, and RM118,800 for the Premium. Compared to pricing at its launch in December 2024, this marks a price drop of RM6k for the Prime and RM4k for the Premium against their CBU versions.

  The welcome benefit package is comprised of:

  • Complimentary 7 kW home charger worth RM1,500
  • Complimentary V2L (vehicle-to-load) adapter worth RM500
  • Five-year unlimited internet data plan worth RM1,800
  • Six-year, unlimited mileage vehicle warranty
  • Eight-year, 160,000 km high-voltage battery and component warranty
  • Exclusive Proton owner trade-in rebate worth RM5,000

  

  

  2026 Proton eMas 7 EV CKD price list; Peninsular Malaysia (left), East Malaysia (right)

  The arrival of the locally assembled Proton eMas 7 EV also brings equipment updates for the 2026 model year. This brings the addition of a powered tailgate on the Prime variant, while the Premium variant gets upgrades to its ADAS suite, which now gains evasive manoeuvre assist, front cross traffic alert, and active lane change assist.

  Key specification details for the locally assembled eMas 7 EV remain as before, with the Prime getting a 49.52 kWh Aegis short-blade lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery that brings a WLTP-rated 345 km of range, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 15.4-inch 2.5K-resolution touchscreen display, Level 2 ADAS, and the aforementioned powered tailgate. The tonneau cover introduced last August continues to be present.

  Stepping up to the Premium brings the larger capacity, 60.22 kWh Aegis short-blade LFP battery for a WLTP-rated 410 km of range, 19-inch alloy wheels, a 16-speaker Flyme audio system, head-up display, ventilated front seats, and the aforementioned additional ADAS features (evasive manoeuvre assist, front cross traffic alert, and active lane change assist).

  This still foregoes the larger battery introduced for the 2026 Geely Galaxy E5 in China, which gets a larger battery capacity at 68.39 kWh, for 13.6% more capacity versus the 60.22 kWh unit, to yield around 15.1% more range.

  

  

  2026 Proton eMas 7 EV CKD specifications – click to enlarge

  These ADAS upgrades include new hardware, which means that the new ADAS features will not be applicable via OTA on older examples of the eMas 7. The new hardware additions are three millimetre-wave radar units, located in front at the centre and corners of the vehicle.

  Level 2 ADAS in both variants of the eMas 7 CKD is comprised of intelligent cruise control, ACC, AEB, forward collision warning, emergency brake assist, lane departure warning and prevention, emergency lane keep assist, rear collision warning, rear cross traffic alert, rear cross traffic braking, lane change safety warning, door open warning, traffic sign recognition, and leading vehicle departure alert.

  Also on for the eMas 7 are rear parking sensors, 360-degree camera with 3D display, and auto door locking when the vehicle is driven; the Premium adds front parking sensors.

  Powertrain for both variants continues to be a front-axle motor producing 160 kW (218 PS) and 320 Nm, enabling the 0-100 km/h run in a claimed 6.9 seconds. the Prime can receive up to 80 kW DC charging while the Premium can take up to 100 kW DC, enabling both to attain a 30-80% recharge in 20 minutes; 11 kW AC charging yields a 10-100% charge in 4.9 hours for the Prime, and 6.1 hours for the Premium.

  

  

  Exterior colours for the 2026 eMas 7 EV are Lithium White, Turquoise Green, Slate Grey, Platinum Silver, Quartz Rose, and Obsidian Black, while the interior gets upholstery in Indigo Blue. On a more limited basis, the Alabaster White interior upholstery colour can be selected, though this is limited to Premium variant units in Turquoise Green and Quartz Rose, according to Proton.

  The 2026 Proton eMas 7 EV is now locally assembled, and goes on sale in two variants; the Prime at RM99,800, and the Premium at RM115,800; prices are on-the-road without insurance, after the RM4,000 rebate.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Porsche sold 279,449 cars in 2025 – down 10% from 2024; Macan top seller; North America largest market

  In Cars, International News, Porsche / by Gerard Lye / 20 January 2026 12:42 pm

  

  Sales of the Porsche cars dipped by 10% to 279,449 units in 2025, which is less than the 310,718 deliveries recorded in 2024. “After several record years, our deliveries in 2025 were below the previous year’s level,” said Matthias Becker, member of the executive board for sales and marketing at Porsche AG.

  “This development is in line with our expectations and is due to supply gaps for the 718 and Macan combustion-engined models, the continuing weaker demand for exclusive products in China and our value-oriented supply management,” he added.

  Looking across regions, North America was once again Porsche’s biggest market with 86,229 units, which is only slightly less than the 86,541 units in 2024. Similarly, overseas and emerging markets largely maintained their combined previous-year levels with 54,974 units, or 1% down from 55,533 units in 2024.

  Meanwhile, Europe (excluding Germany) saw 66,340 units sold, which is 13% less than the 75,899 units in 2024. In Germany specifically, 29,968 deliveries were recorded – a decrease of 16% from 35,858 units in 2024. Porsche says the declines in both regions include the aforementioned supply gaps for the for the combustion-engined 718 and Macan models due to EU cybersecurity regulations.

  

  China saw the largest sales decrease in terms of percentage, with the 41,938 units recorded in 2025 being 26% less than the 56,887 units in 2024. Reasons for include challenging market conditions, particularly in the luxury segment, as well as intense competition among fully electric models in the Chinese market.

  On a model-to-model basis, the Macan is the best-selling Porsche model in 2025 with 84,328 units (+2%). From that figure, fully electric versions made up over half at 45,367 vehicles, with the remainder being combustion-engined versions that saw 38,961 units, many of which were delivered in markets outside the European Union.

  Sales of the Panamera declined by 6% to 27,701 units by the end of December last year, while the 911 saw 51,583 units (+1%) to mark another delivery record. Understandably, sales of the 718 duo that include the Boxster and Cayman – production of both ended in October last year – dropped 21% to 18,612 units in total.

  Other models that registered a decline include the Taycan with 16,339 units (-22%) due to the slowdown in the adoption of electromobility, while the Cayenne dipped 21% to 80,886 units because of catch-up effects the previous year.

  

  Overall, the delivery mix saw 34.4% of Porsche cars delivered in 2025 to be electrified (+7.4%), with 22.2% being fully electric and 12.1% being plug-in hybrids. In Europe specifically, more electrified cars were delivered than pure combustion-engined models, with the electrification share being 57.9%.

  “In 2026, we have a clear focus; we want to manage demand and supply according to our ‘value over volume’ strategy. At the same time, we are planning our volumes for 2026 realistically, considering the production phase-out of the combustion-engined 718 and Macan models,” said Becker.

  “In parallel, Porsche is consistently investing in its three-pronged powertrain strategy and will continue to inspire customers with unique sports cars in 2026. An important component is the expansion of the brand’s customization offering – via both the Exclusive Manufaktur and Sonderwunsch program. In doing so, the company is responding to customers’ ever-increasing desire for individualization,” he ended.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• 2026 Kia Niro facelift – electrified SUV more conventional inside and out, BEV not returning?

  In Cars, International News, Kia / by Jonathan Lee / 20 January 2026 11:30 am

  

  After a mixed reception from the buying public, Kia has restyled the second-generation Niro, some four years after its debut in January 2022. The facelifted electrified SUV has dispensed with some of its polarising design cues while keeping much of its unique style.

  The front end sees the inclusion of taller headlights that now smoothly transitions into the slim upper “tiger nose” grille, incorporating the Korean carmaker’s latest “Star Map” daytime running lights. Meanwhile, the contrasting-colour side rocker panels now extend right into the hexagonal lower grille and are better integrated into the front wheel arch trims.

  Kia also appears to have ditched the Niro’s most striking feature – an optional contrast colour for the arrow-shaped C-pillars. The slimline vertical taillights have been trimmed, no longer reaching up into the roof and coming with black trim to enlarge them visually. They are also now joined by a black strip, while further down, the number plate recess has been pushed down into the bumper for a cleaner tailgate design.

  

  Also redesigned is the rear bumper valance and diffuser-like silver skid plate that provide a more unified look, and the whole revamp is finished off with new 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels in Kia’s latest “cubic” design.

  Inside, a similarly wholesale refresh has occurred, with the Niro ditching its “rising” dashboard for a horizontal design. A new curved widescreen display panel continues to house twin 12.3-inch screens for instrumentation and infotainment, sitting behind Kia’s latest two-spoke steering wheel.

  Unlike on the brand’s latest models, this car does not get physical air-con switchgear (apart from the twin knobs), instead retaining the outgoing model’s touch panel that switches between climate control and audio functions. The asymmetrical centre console, topped by a rotary gear selector, is also unchanged.

  Technical specifications have yet to be revealed, but we can expect the same powertrains as before. These include a 105 PS/144 Nm 1.6 litre Smartstream G Hybrid naturally-aspirated four-cylinder, paired with a 43 PS electric motor and a six-speed dual-clutch transmission for a total system output of 141 PS. Only the hybrid version of the facelift has been revealed so far.

  

  The Niro is currently also available as a plug-in hybrid with a more powerful 84 PS motor for a combined output of 185 PS, plus an 11.1 kWh battery for a pure electric range of 60 km. A larger battery would improve the latter considerably and help make the car a more attractive proposition in the face of longer-range Chinese PHEVs.

  One model we’re less sure of making a comeback is the EV, previously sold in Malaysia. Kia has completely revamped its EV lineup, with the brand-new EV2 usurping the Niro as the marque’s entry-level offering. As such, we’re finding it hard to see the value in continuing with a car with worse range and slower charging.

  We’ll find out soon enough, with Kia set to announce specifications for the Korean market in March. With Kia now represented in Malaysia through a principal-led model, could the Niro return as a hybrid or PHEV model? And if it does, would you get one over value-priced Chinese models? Let us know in the comments.

  GALLERY: 2023 Kia Niro EV in Malaysia

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• JPJ to continue strict enforcement, public awareness efforts to curb red-light running: Director-general

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 20 January 2026 10:46 am

  

  The road transport department (JPJ) will continue strict enforcement and public awareness efforts to curb running of red lights and improve compliance with traffic regulations, reported New Straits Times. Non-compliance with traffic signals remained a persistent issue that posed serious risks to the public, said JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli.

  “It is still occurring. From time to time, there are offences among the public related to non-compliance with road regulations, especially running red lights. As such, the JPJ, in collaboration with the police, will maintain regular patrols and periodic operations to reinforce compliance,” he said.

  The JPJ director-general said this in response to calls for tougher action following an incident in Jitra, Kedah where a 22-year-old motorcyclist was killed when a van alleged ran a red light and collided into her motorcycle.

  According to an earlier New Straits Times report, the driver of the van involved was arrested to assist with investigations. Initial urine screening for the van driver returned a negative result for drugs, according to police, and investigation has commenced under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act, which relates to causing death by reckless or dangerous driving.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• 300 EV vans for Rapid On-Demand between late-2027 and end-2028, zones expanding, in-app payments soon

  In Local News, Public Transport / by Jonathan James Tan / 20 January 2026 10:04 am

  

  Rapid On-Demand is going EV – 300 electric vans (130 in the Klang Valley, 170 in Penang) are planned to enter service between late-2027 and end-2028, Bernama reports, with Prasarana Malaysia strategy and planning head Sharul Azwa Abd Rani telling The Star that the cost of the EV vans are still being assessed. Also targeted are 18 new diesel vans for the Klang Valley to bring the total to 255 by end-2028.

  There’ll also be new service zones, although Bernama reports 45 (22 Klang Valley, 23 Penang) while The Star reports 53 (31 Klang Valley, 22 Penang) by end-2028, with eight of them complementing the still-delayed LRT3 Shah Alam Line.

  The Rapid On-Demand app (download for iOS | download for Android) will be upgraded by mid-February to include in-app payments and a special booking feature for persons with disabilities (OKU), who travel free thanks to the Rapid Mesra pass.

  

  Rapid Bus acting CEO Ku Jamil Zakaria told The Star that about 10% of the new vans will be fitted with remote-controlled swivel seats to help those with mobility issues get on. “For vans without this feature, the drivers will assist those with mobility issues to get on board,” he said.

  The Rapid On-Demand fare will be doubled to RM2 a journey beginning February. The RM1 promo fare has existed since the 2023 proof-of-concept phase. The new fare also applies to My50, Rapid Kota, Rapid Kembara and Rapid Keluarga pass holders.

  On January 16, Rapid On-Demand took over 16 MRT feeder routes and three Rapid KL bus routes. There’s only one app now – the ability to book the service was removed from Mobi, Trek Rides and Kummute on November 15.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Failure to wear seatbelts and running red lights were most common traffic offences in Perak in 2025 – JPJ

  In Local News / by Gerard Lye / 20 January 2026 9:59 am

  

  According to the Perak road transport department (JPJ), failure to wear front seatbelts and not complying with traffic light regulations were among the most common offences recorded during a special operation focusing on nine major offences in the state last year.

  As reported by Bernama, Perak JPJ deputy director Mohd Azmi Jaafar said that throughout 2025, a total of 17,218 vehicles were inspected statewide during last year’s special operation. From those vehicles inspected, failure to wear front seatbelts saw the highest number of summonses issued at 2,191, followed by traffic light violations with 1,066 summonses.

  Other offences recorded include not wearing helmets (520), using mobiles a mobile phone while driving (363), abusing emergency lanes (265), overtaking on double-lined roads (262), queue cutting (59), failure to wear rear seatbelts (56) and continuously driving in the right lane (42).

  Meanwhile in 2026, 1,800 vehicles were inspected from Jan 1 to 15, with 167 offences recorded. These include 130 seatbelt offences, 19 traffic light violations and 14 cases of mobile phone use while driving.

  In a special operation held recently on January 16, Mohd Azmi said 107 vehicles were inspected and action was taken against 82 (40 cars, 36 motorcycles and six other vehicles). A total of 112 notices were issued, 25 of which involved failure to wear seatbelts. He also noted that Perak JPJ will continue to step up enforcement against commercial vehicles through the ongoing ‘Ops Perang’ that focuses on overloading and other offences.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Kelantan JPJ to conduct checks on participants of RXZ Forever Legend event taking place February 6 to 7

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 20 January 2026 9:45 am

  

  File image

  The Kelantan road transport department (JPJ) will conduct random checks on participants of the upcoming RXZ Forever Legend event that is set to take place on February 6 and 7 in Tunjong, Kota Bharu, reported Bernama.

  The checks will focus on helmet usage, motorcycle modifications and exhaust noise levels, said Kelantan JPJ director Mohd Misuari Abdullah. The state’s road transport department has an intelligence team and a monitoring team to oversee the two-day motorcycle event, he added.

  “We will conduct this monitoring, including on village roads. We will welcome (the participants) if they use their discretion by not cutting in, not racing, and obeying all the laws,” Mohd Misuari said.

  “In terms of assigning task to members, we haven’t decided yet, considering that this programme organised by a non-governmental organisation has received a permit from the police and support from the state government. However is assistance is needed, we will help,” he said.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Volvo EX60 leaked ahead of Jan 21 reveal – EV SUV with 810 km range, 800-volt DC fast charging

  In Cars, International News, Volvo / by Jonathan Lee / 19 January 2026 8:00 pm

  

  Just days out from its reveal on Wednesday, the all-new Volvo EX60 has been scooped in the buff, showing the XC60 replacement’s front three-quarter design in full. These images of the electric compact executive SUV, sighted on Reddit, were apparently mistakenly uploaded onto a Norwegian newspaper’s website ahead of time.

  It looks like Volvo is pursuing a “Russian doll” design language, because the EX60 sports some obvious design cues from Sweden’s other new models – most notably, the also-new XC70. This includes the split LED headlight setup, as unlike the EX90, the “Thor’s Hammer” daytime running lights do not pop open to reveal the main lamps, so they have to be positioned lower down.

  The downturned air intake, sitting below the grille-less front fascia (still sporting the diagonal chrome strip and “Iron Mark”), is another cue lifted from the XC70. Along the side, the flanks are chiselled in a similar fashion and the window line features the same upwards flick to meet the D-pillars.

  However, the EX60 does appear to possess a sleeker profile, with a lower-slung roofline and a seemingly lower bonnet, the latter as a result of not having to house an engine underneath. This accentuates the front fender haunches, which appear more muscular than on other models.

  

  A few things of note here – firstly, Volvo looks set to ditch conventional door handles and even flush pop-out ones, in favour of little tabs on the waist rail akin to the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Hopefully, unlike that car, these are mechanical pull tabs that would help satisfy stricter Chinese door handle regulations.

  Secondly, as per the EX30, the EX60 is expected to receive a more rugged Cross Country trim. One of the photos show a different front bumper with a boxier bumper profile, a more prominent silver skid plate and a blacked-out section between the main lamps and the centre intake.

  There are no images of the rear end, but we already have a good idea of what the rump looks like thanks to teaser images released last week – in fact, the back of the EX60 was shown all the way back during the reveal of the ES90 last year. Departing from cars like the EX90 and ES90, the angular upper and lower taillights on this model are joined together to highlight the strong shoulders, much like Volvos of the past. There’s also a clean tailgate design prominently showcasing the Volvo script.

  

  The supposed Cross Country model

  Volvo has also revealed that the EX60 will support Google’s Gemini generative AI – as expected from a car that’ll have Mountain View’s services built in. But the most impressive feature is the powertrain, which delivers a segment-leading 810 km of WLTP-rated range and 400 kW of DC fast charging thanks to an 800-volt electrical architecture, the latter providing 350 km of range with just ten minutes of charging.

  Built on a brand-new, third-generation Scalable Product Architecture (SPA3), the EX60 features cell-to-body (CTB) construction to increase efficiency and reduce weight, with a new cell design contributing to the very long range. Further cutting weight is a “mega casting” that combines hundreds of smaller parts into a single large pressing, similar to Tesla’s “gigacasting” process.

  The Volvo EX60 is set to be offered in Malaysia, and with CKD local assembly at the Shah Alam plant, it should benefit from the EV tax breaks now discontinued for CBU fully-imported models. Are you excited? Let us know in the comments.

  GALLERY: Volvo EX60 teasers

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• JPJ to get more bodycams for enforcement officers; up to 500 units in total to be deployed this year

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 19 January 2026 5:48 pm

  

  The road transport department (JPJ) will expand the deployment of body-worn cameras, or bodycams for its enforcement officers this year, reported New Straits Times.

  The department is in the process of procuring additional units which will be distributed to all state offices, said JPJ director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli.

  “Following a positive initial rollout that began in October last year, the department estimates more than 300 units will be added, with the total possibly reaching 500 units this year. The cameras help reassure the public regarding the integrity of officers while recording all movements and activities of enforcement personnel, as well as any issues that arise on the ground,” he said.

  

  The initial roll-out of bodycams for JPJ saw 100 units of the body-worn cameras distributed in stages to state JPJ offices, with priority given to headquarters personnel who frequently take part in joint and high-risk operations.

  Transport minister Anthony Loke said in January last year that JPJ personnel will be issued bodycams in 2025 in a bid to enhance enforcement transparency; JPJ director Azrin Borhan said that bodycam use by the state’s JPJ officers began in December. Meanwhile, PDRM officers have been issued bodycams for use in the field from October 2024.

  “The use of body cameras not only protects the image and integrity of JPJ but also safeguards the officers themselves. As I have mentioned before, sometimes our officers face criticism, humiliation and various accusations. With the body camera, JPJ officers are protected, as any evidence during their enforcement actions can be captured,” Loke said in December.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• PLUS Putra Mahkota ramp to Southville and KL to close every night from Jan 19-30 – tree cutting works

  In Local News / by Danny Tan / 19 January 2026 5:12 pm

  

  Click to enlarge

  PLUS has announced that the slip road from Persimpangan Putra Mahkota (Ramp D) heading towards Southville and KL (northbound) will be closed to all traffic every night, from 10pm to 5am. It will be from tonight till January 30.

  The E2 highway operator says that this closure is to facilitate the safe cutting of risky trees that line the route. Click on the image above for a better idea on the ramp that is affected.

  As an alternative, motorists are advised to use state roads towards Southville. PLUS advises motorists to plan ahead and follow the signs at the work area. Share this info with those who use the Putra Mahkota interchange at night. Drive safe.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Ring in the Year of the Horse with Chinese New Year rebates of up to RM18,888 on an Omoda & Jaecoo!

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 19 January 2026 5:10 pm

  

  Be the envy of the town this Chinese New Year with a brand new Omoda & Jaecoo vehicle! With rebates of up to RM18,888 and a 5-year or 100,000 km (whichever comes first) free service package for all petrol models this month, there’s no better way to ring in the year of the horse.

  Purchase any Omoda & Jaecoo model from now until January 31 to receive exclusive Ang Pow rebates totalling up to RM2,888 for the popular Jaecoo J7 2WD, rising up to RM5,888 for the J7 AWD. With the 5-year free service package included, you’re looking at savings of RM8,400 and RM11,800 respectively.

  Looking for something with more space? The luxurious Omoda C9 can be had with rebates of RM2,888 for the 2WD model and RM3,888 with AWD, resulting in savings of RM8,600 and RM10,000 respectively. And if you need up to three rows of seats, the Jaecoo J8 gets a RM2,888 rebate for both 2WD and AWD, leading to savings of RM8,800 and RM9,100 respectively.

  But by far the biggest savings are reserved for the powerful yet efficient Jaecoo J7 PHEV, which gets a whopping RM18,888 rebate and a 5-year or 50,000 km (whichever comes first) free service package, plus a two-year extended battery warranty for a total of ten years of coverage. Add that all together and you’re looking at RM24,800 in savings!

  Time is running out, so place your order for a new Omoda & Jaecoo model in time for you to drive back home in style. For more details, visit the official Omoda & Jaecoo Malaysia website.

  Terms & conditions apply

   

• Chery Malaysia begins exporting Jaecoo J7 to Brunei

  In Cars, Chery, Local News, Omoda Jaecoo / by Jonathan James Tan / 19 January 2026 4:53 pm

  

  Chery Corporate Malaysia has begun exports to Brunei, its second ASEAN market after Vietnam last February. The first batch comprises the Jaecoo J7 PHEV and Jaecoo J7 2WD, identically equipped to the models sold in Malaysia and assembled in Shah Alam.

  “The export market is a key pillar for our long-term growth strategy in the ASEAN region. We are thrilled to continue this growth momentum of expanding our brand reach to more markets,” Chery Corporate Malaysia EVP Men Lin Bo said.

  

  

  “Following the start of exports to Vietnam in February 2025, Brunei’s proximity and market potential make it a logical and important next step. This initial shipment of the Jaecoo J7 allows us to gauge market reception and lay a solid foundation in Brunei,” Chery Corporate Malaysia VP Cheng Nam Weng said.

  Omoda & Jaecoo’s Brunei dealer is Grand Motors Sdn Bhd. Proton International very recently launched the X50 facelift there.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

Latest Fuel Prices