Proton continued its ambitious 10,000 sMILEs Expedition with a meaningful stop in Sabah, combining real-world driving experiences, community outreach and sustainability efforts into a journey that reflected the diversity and spirit of East Malaysia.

Held in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, the expedition travelled from the bustling streets of Kota Kinabalu to the scenic highland roads of Kundasang, allowing Proton to showcase how its vehicles perform in everyday driving environments familiar to Sabah motorists. More than just a convoy, the initiative highlighted how mobility can connect people, communities and meaningful experiences along the journey.

Throughout the expedition, the Proton Saga, Proton X50 and Proton S70 demonstrated their versatility across varying road conditions, from urban traffic to winding uphill routes. Each model represented different lifestyle needs, ranging from daily commuting and family practicality to intelligent technology and long-distance comfort.

In the vibrant surroundings of Kota Kinabalu during the Kaamatan festive season, the Proton Saga reinforced its appeal as a dependable and practical sedan. Equipped with features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, reverse camera, parking sensors and a spacious 420-litre boot, the model continued to showcase why it remains a popular choice among Malaysian families and first-time buyers. Its i-GT 1.5-litre engine paired with a CVT transmission also delivered smooth and fuel-efficient performance suited for urban use.

Meanwhile, the Proton X50 demonstrated its strengths as a smart and capable SUV. Intelligent convenience technologies including a 360-degree HD camera, 180-degree transparent view, Auto Park Assist, voice command and multiple parking sensors enhanced driving confidence in busy city environments. Powered by a turbocharged i-GT 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, the X50 also proved its capability across Sabah’s varied terrain with adaptive drive modes and Hill Descent Control supporting a more confident drive.

As the convoy ascended towards Kundasang, the challenging highland roads became the perfect environment to highlight the Proton S70’s performance credentials. Designed as a sporty sedan for both urban and long-distance driving, the S70 combined its turbocharged 1.5-litre engine with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission to deliver responsive acceleration and refined cruising comfort. Advanced driver assistance systems such as Intelligent Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning further enhanced confidence throughout the journey.

Beyond showcasing product capability, the expedition also emphasised Proton’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its aftersales support network in Sabah. At Fook Loi Corporation, participants experienced a Fast Service 10-Point Service Check designed to demonstrate quicker and more convenient vehicle servicing. Supported by Proton’s 12 service outlets in Sabah and Regional Parts Centres in Inanam, the initiative reflected the company’s commitment towards providing faster and smoother aftersales support for customers across the state.

The convoy also carried a meaningful humanitarian mission during its visit to Sabah Cheshire Home and Services. Proton contributed essential supplies, food items and a RM10,000 cash donation to support the home’s daily operations. The contribution reinforced the campaign’s goal of creating positive impact beyond the road, highlighting how mobility can also serve as a bridge to community engagement and care.

Sustainability was another key focus of the Sabah leg of the expedition. At Kinabalu Park, Proton collaborated with Sabah Parks to support environmental protection and biodiversity conservation initiatives. The partnership reflected a shared commitment towards preserving Sabah’s natural heritage while promoting more meaningful sustainability efforts in the future.

According to Dato’ Ir. Abdul Rashid Musa, the expedition allowed Proton to engage with Sabah on a deeper level by experiencing its people, culture, communities and roads firsthand. He noted that the campaign represents more than vehicle demonstrations, as it also aims to connect mobility with purpose through community contributions and sustainability collaborations.

Following its successful Sabah journey, the Proton 10,000 sMILEs Expedition will continue to Brunei and Sarawak, where further dealership activities, cultural engagements, community programmes and real-world driving experiences are planned as part of the ongoing campaign.