Malaysia’s Proton is offering a trade-in incentive of up to MYR 4,000 (AUD 1,453) for vehicles 20 years and older.
CASH FOR OLD CARS
According to the company’s official statement earlier this year, the option to trade-in with Proton is available for all its models.
“This initiative will encourage the responsible replacement of old, unroadworthy vehicles and improve road safety while supporting the transition towards cleaner and more efficient mobility,” said Proton CEO Dr. Li Chunrong. “The incentive offered by PROTON is an extension of the PROTON Xchange Programme launched in May 2025.”
According to the CEO, the company’s trade-in program has recorded over 4,000 trade-in transactions since its inception. These transactions so far are worth MYR 8.68 million (AUD 3.2 million) in trade-in incentives.
While the trade-in is applicable to all models, participants who trade in the Proton X50 or Proton e.MAS 5 can receive an additional MYR 2,000 (AUD 727).
“This also helps to support the company’s growth initiatives for 2026, where it targets sales of 200,000 units following a strong performance last year, during which volume growth outpaced total industry volume growth by more than six times,” Proton said in its statement.
THE MATCHING GRANT PROGRAMME
The trade-in scheme is Proton’s contribution to the “Matching Grant Programme for the Replacement of Old Vehicles,” a government initiative. This program aims to lessen aging vehicles, improving road safety and possible pollution.
The Malaysian government has allotted up to MYR 10 million (AUD 3.6 million) in its budget for the program. Eligible participants will receive up to MYR 2,000 (AUD 727) and matched by either Proton or its rival Perodua.
“Old vehicles are generally more prone to mechanical failures, lack modern safety features, and do not meet current safety standards. Therefore, replacing aging vehicles through this programme is seen as a high-impact road safety intervention,” said Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport in a statement.
Once traded in, old vehicles will be brought to authorised automotive treatment facilities (AATF) where they will be disposed of in accordance with environmental standards.
“In addition to benefiting the people, this programme also supports the local automotive industry, increases domestic demand, and stimulates economic activity across the automotive industry value chain,” stated Transport Minister Anthony Loke in his speech at the program launch.
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