Speaking at Proton’s 40th anniversary celebration and the launch of the Proton X90 here today, Anwar said Proton’s development had played a pivotal role in bringing Malaysia into the era of modernity.

“The era of ‘Modern Malaysia’ goes hand-in-hand with the development of Proton, and the automotive industry has great potential not only in our country, but also in Asean,” he said.

“The unity government would like to thank former prime minister Mahathir for his contribution and role in the sector.”

Mahathir is credited with having conceived the idea of a national car- maker in 1979 as part of efforts towards industrialisation. The Cabinet approved the idea in 1982, and Proton was founded on 7 May 1983.

At today’s event, Proton launched its latest model, the mild-hybrid electric X90 SUV, priced from RM123,800 to RM152,800. The X90 is the carmaker’s third SUV in the X series.

The X90 has a mild-hybrid setup with a 48V electric motor system paired with a 1.5 litre three-cylinder turbocharged GDI engine, similar to that on the X50 and X70 models, and a 7-speed dual clutch transmission.

The new model comes in three seven-seater variants, the Standard, Executive, and Premium, while the Flagship variant has a 2-2-2 six-seat layout

The X90 also features three new class safety systems that consist of rear collision warning, traffic sign information and rear cross traffic alert.

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