Malaysia’s vehicle market recovery accelerated in November with new registrations rising by 21.3% to 43,783 units, according to the Malaysian Automotive Association. Sales activity was boosted by seasonal factors, rising consumer confidence and the launch of important new models earlier in the year.
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During the month, new passenger car registrations grew by 22.8% to 40,053 units, while commercial vehicle sales increased by 6.8% to 3,491 units. In particular, the launch of the Proton Persona – a popular sub-compact car – contributed significantly to the sales rise.
The sharp decline in the first half of the year means that 2007 will likely be at best a flat year for new sales, however. Cumulatively, new registrations fell by 2% in the first eleven months to 444,932 units, compared with 454,160 a year earlier. December sales will likely see higher volumes year-on-year, but the month is traditionally a weak one for sales – with customers preferring to wait until the new year to register their vehicles.
The MAA also reported that vehicle production fell sharply in the January-November period to 409,113 units, compared with 473,463 units a year earlier. This is a decline of 13.6% year-on-year and represents a significant underperformance on the part of domestic models.
Tony Pugliese
