Proton has issued a statement regarding the ongoing investigation by ASEAN NCAP which involves a certain local car manufacturer removing the a top tether fitment from one of their cars.
This is what Proton said in response to the investigation:
“Proton has been testing many of its cars worldwide such as Australia and previously in Europe. The company has also sought the services of world-class agencies and test labs to ensure stringent tests and outcomes.
From the experience of dealing with leading and world-class agencies, the normal procedure of these agencies would be to thoroughly inform and notify the Company in the event of discrepancy, defects or faulty elements, before any public statements are issued regarding the tested cars.
In this instance, we will consult ASEAN NCAP on the matter as we have not been notified officially. Hence, we are unable to confirm or deny the matter.
We wish to assure the public that all Proton cars meet the regulatory safety standards in all markets that we are operating in, especially in Malaysia. We will continuously pursue to enhance our products and services as well as make improvements where necessary.”
According to ASEAN NCAP Secretary-General, Mr. Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim, the removal of the top tether will surely have severe impact on the result of Child Occupant Protection of ASEAN NCAP test. “This is an irresponsible act by the manufacturer and needs to be made public in order to demonstrate safety is not tolerable. The results from ASEAN NCAP rating is a “promise” between manufacturers and NCAP, especially on the safety fitment installed inside their respective vehicles, and certainly this manufacturer has broken their promise.” said Khairil in a statement.
