In a bold move to improve road safety and champion sustainable mobility, national carmaker Proton has officially launched the Proton Xchange Programme, a strategic initiative encouraging owners of unroadworthy, aged vehicles to trade them in for new, eco-friendly Proton models. The launch event, held at the Proton Centre of Excellence in Subang Jaya, marked a significant milestone in Malaysia’s automotive landscape and was officiated by Transport Minister YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook.
Open to all vehicle brands, the programme is a joint effort between Proton and Car Medic Sdn Bhd, an authorised automotive treatment facility certified by the Department of Environment (DOE). Through this collaboration, owners of cars 15 years or older in poor condition can receive incentives to deregister and dispose of their vehicles safely, paving the way for ownership of a safer and more environmentally friendly Proton vehicle—including the popular EV model, Proton e.MAS 7.
To boost adoption, Proton is offering RM2,000 overtrade support for new vehicle registrations under the programme, with a total budget of RM4.8 million allocated for its pilot phase, which runs until the end of December 2025.
“Our goal is not only to increase road safety but also to support Malaysia’s move towards carbon neutrality by 2050,” said Dr. Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of Proton. “The Xchange Programme aligns with our broader commitment to sustainability and innovation.”
Eligibility for the programme requires participants to submit proof of ownership and ensure the deregistration of their old vehicles via the Road Transport Department (JPJ). Additional documentation includes a Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC) for the new car, a JPJK1KD form, and a Certificate of Destruction (COD) provided by Car Medic.
Car Medic enhances the process by offering e-Deregistration services, including door-to-door pickup, towing, and handling all required regulatory paperwork. Their digital platform also enables MyKad holders in selected regions to complete deregistration on-site, while also supporting bulk applications for fleets.
In recognition of Proton’s leadership, the Ministry of Transport has extended a first-year tax exemption for vehicles purchased through the initiative. “We hope other automotive brands will follow Proton’s example by prioritising road safety and environmental responsibility over short-term gains,” said Minister Anthony Loke. “This is a powerful step toward cleaner roads and safer driving conditions.”
Proton’s position as the only local brand offering internal combustion engines (ICE), mild hybrids, and electric vehicles (EVs) puts it in a unique position to lead such a transformative programme. As new models and additional EV offerings are introduced, the Xchange Programme sets a precedent for integrating corporate responsibility with customer benefit.
With its ambitious vision and comprehensive execution, Proton is steering Malaysia towards a future where greener mobility and safer roads go hand in hand.
