Proton brought its “Inspiring Connections” brand promise to the streets of Kuala Lumpur as the Title Sponsor of the 5KM category at the Malaysia Marathon 2026, using the event to celebrate unity, determination and progress on the eve of Hari Merdeka. The 2026 edition attracted more than 25,000 runners from 69 countries across its 42KM, 21KM, 10KM and 5KM categories. The Proton-sponsored 5KM run was officially flagged off by Deputy Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, with the All-New Proton Saga serving as the official lead car for the event.
The Saga guided 10,000 participants through the 5KM route, while 100 Proton management members and employees also joined runners in taking part. For Proton, the partnership went beyond simply putting its name behind a sporting event. It provided an opportunity for the Malaysian automotive brand to connect with people while supporting an event that brought together participants from across Malaysia and around the world.
“Proton is proud to be part of Malaysia Marathon 2026 and to support an event that brings Malaysians and the international running community together. For us, this partnership is about more than mere sponsorship because it is an opportunity to be part of an experience that celebrates togetherness, determination and the spirit of progress that connects all Malaysians,” said Dato’ Ir. Abdul Rashid Musa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton.
The presence of the All-New Proton Saga as the lead car also carried particular significance for Proton. Since the original Saga was introduced in 1985, the model has become deeply associated with Malaysia’s automotive journey. More than 2.2 million Malaysians have chosen the Saga over the years, while Proton itself has evolved from the country’s first national car project into a modern automotive brand with increasingly strong engineering, technology and manufacturing capabilities.
The latest Saga represents another step in that evolution. Developed using Proton’s proprietary Advanced Modular Architecture, it is the first model in the company’s history to be fully designed, engineered and validated by Malaysian talent, with technical collaboration from Geely.
The All-New Saga also introduces a range of upgrades, including six SRS airbags, nine Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features and a new i-GT 1.5-litre engine paired with a CVT. With claimed fuel efficiency of 4.9 litres per 100km, the sedan combines improved efficiency with Proton’s signature Ride and Handling characteristics.
Inside, the Saga features a 16-inch Integrated Dual Screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, further bringing the traditionally value-focused sedan into the modern era. The event’s theme of moving forward was therefore particularly appropriate, with the latest Saga symbolising both Proton’s own development and its longstanding relationship with Malaysian motorists.
The celebration continued after participants crossed the finish line, with Proton holding a Proton Saga Lucky Draw that gave one runner the opportunity to take home an All-New Proton Saga. Conducted through an electronic random-selection system using the verified entry list, Muhammad Eusoff Bin Abdul Salim was selected as the lucky winner. The vehicle key was subsequently presented to him by Dato’ Ir. Abdul Rashid Musa, marking a memorable conclusion to Proton’s involvement in the Malaysia Marathon 2026.
