CM launches Fook Loi’s Proton Flagship 4S Centre in Kolombong

KOTA KINABALU: Fook Loi Corporation (Sabah) Sdn Bhd officially opened Malaysia’s first Proton Flagship 4S Centre in Kolombong here yesterday.

The opening ceremony was officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal with Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong, Fook Loi Directors and Proton senior management members in attendance.

Proton’s results over the last year showed that the brand is clearly on the ascendancy.

Since the Proton-Geely partnershup was signed October 2017, improvements can be seen in a number of areas.

Starting with the Proton X70 launch on December 12, 2018, Proton has revamped its entire model range resulting in a steady increase in market share.

The company’s overall market share for instance now stands at 15 percent for 2019 on the back of 52,269 units sold, a jump of 47 percent over the corresponding period in 2018.

During the opening ceremony, Dr Li said Proton was aiming for an overall market share of 15.6 percent for 2019.

He also tasked Fook Loi to achieve a target of 300 Proton sales a month.

The 2018 performance caught the attention of many capable investors, such as Fook Loi.

For Fook Loi Group executive director Thomas Chiu Kui Yin said the decision to become a Proton dealer was an easy one to make.

“Deciding to become a Proton dealer was not difficult because we see the potential for Proton in Sabah,” said Chiu.

“The current range of Proton models is highly competitive and technologically advance with features that appeal to the new generation of car buyers,” he added.

Early in its rebranding efforts, Proton realized that in order to capture and expand its consumer base, it needed to have sufficient outlets to cater to their needs.

Ideally, outlets should be spacious, comfortable, pleasing to the eye and have facilities to keep customers happy like free WiFi, a kids’ corner, ample parking space and a coffee area.

Equally important, the outlet should have well trained sales and service staff who can provide high quality customer experience.

“These may seem like simple requirements, but they are critical ones. When customers walk into our showroom or service centre, they would like to be greeted with smiling faces and a beautifully lit area,” said Dr Li.

“This will then set the tone for more meaningful conversations and customers will feel welcomed and appreciated.

“Since outlets are our first point of contact, numerous steps have been taken to ensure that a wholesome experience starts here. These efforts have paid off. Our sales have been on an increasing trend and with our new products, we are confident that we are on track for the company’s return to profitability,” he emphasized.