Suzuki returns to Malaysia, Naza the new distributor
KUALA LUMPUR: Suzuki Motor Corporation is making its return to Malaysia after being absent for several years.
Its comeback comes with the new distributor in the Naza Group, through subsidiary Naza Eastern Motors Sdn Bhd.
Naza Group, in a statement today, said the appointment coincided with its 45th anniversary.
“The appointment allows Naza Eastern to sell and provide after-sales service for new generation Suzuki vehicles only,” the group added.
Naza Corporation Holdings executive chairman and chief executive officer SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin said, “It brings us great honour to be able to work with a Japanese automotive giant that successfully captured the hearts of Malaysian consumers during its years in the Malaysian market.”
He added that the team at Naza Eastern was committed to building on the strong reputation Suzuki had established by providing quality products that “are reliable, desirable and cheerful.”
The brand was last represented in Malaysia by DRB-HICOM Bhd’s unit Suzuki Malaysia Automobile, with local assembly of the Swift hatchback particularly being carried out by Hicom Automotive Manufacturers in Pekan, Pahang.
In June 2015, Suzuki signed an agreement with Proton Holdings Bhd and DRB-HICOM for the production of its vehicles.
Sales and assembly of Suzuki models in Malaysia were halted under a rationalisation plan, and in January 2016 it was announced that all 29 Suzuki dealerships in the country would be converted to Proton Edar outlets, ending the brand’s official sales presence in the country.
Suzuki Motor senior managing officer and executive general manager of global automobile marketing Kinji Saito said it was
delighted to return to the Malaysian market with the Naza Group as its distributor.
“Our experience with the Malaysian market has been delightful due to the huge acceptance from our customers, and we greatly appreciate the continued trust for Suzuki.
“We are looking forward to introducing our latest award winning cars to these loyal Suzuki fans,” Saito added.
Suzuki’s first flagship 3S showroom is set to be located in Naza Automall, Petaling Jaya.
Inspired by the Suzuki “Way of Life!” motto, the showroom boasts more than 3,000 square feet of space and will welcome customers with bright and vibrant environment along with some interactive points.
“Over the years, Suzuki has produced great products that have piqued the interest of many around the globe.
“We are looking to kick-start Suzuki’s reintroduction in Malaysia by launching two of its most discussed and desirable models this year,” said Naza Corp CEO of automotive group Datuk Nik Hamdam Nik Hassan.
The first Suzuki model is set to be launched in Malaysia in April. Nst
