Proton: Let it die

The former PM's pet project, which was already unravelling even during his tenure, has now completely transformed into a black hole for taxpayer's money.

Even if Proton could magically produce better cars tomorrow, who in their right mind would buy a car from a dying company? And yes, a RM591mil loss for FY07, and declining profits since 2003 certainly qualifies as "dying".

For that matter, which well-run, profitable car company would want to partner with someone like Proton, which is bleeding cash, is poorly managed, and has too many workers?

Let's drop any pretence of being a "car-manufacturing country", and just let Proton die, as it seems very intent to do so.

The govt should remove the trade barriers to foreign cars, and stop paying out subsidies and bailout money to Proton.

The money should instead be spend on proven economic drivers such as roads and highways, telecoms infrastructure, public transportation, and education.

Consumers: Vote with your wallet and do not support this embarrassment to Malaysia. Don't buy a Proton car. Don't mistake "wasting money" for "patriotism".