Questions over the affordability of Malaysian-made cars were raised in the Dewan Negara when Senator Datuk Ahmad Ibrahim asked why buyers still rely on lengthy loan repayments despite these models being exempt from import duties.



The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) responded that vehicle pricing is determined by market forces rather than direct government control.

According to MITI, the Ministry of Finance has for years offered various incentives and tax relief for cars assembled locally, including national makes. These measures are intended to strengthen domestic supply chains, attract investment, and support R&D. Thanks to such policies, locally assembled cars are usually more affordable than fully imported ones.



MITI added that budget-friendly options are already on the market. Perodua’s Rahmah series starts from RM22,000 before insurance, while Proton still offers the Saga below RM40,000.



The ministry emphasized that the aim is to provide Malaysians with a variety of choices that suit their financial situation, so they can avoid being burdened by heavy debt.