SHAH ALAM - The sales of new vehicles leading up to Aidilfitri have increased by 30 to 40 per cent compared to last year, despite the country's economy being in the post-Covid-19 recovery phase.
Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Associations of Malaysia (FMCCAM) president Datuk Tony Khor Chong Boon said the situation was also influenced by the release of new car models by automotive companies, leading to better purchases.
He said this also indicated that many people could still afford to own vehicles.
"Typically, when the festive season arrives, sales of new cars are better than used cars, and this shows that the public is still interested in owning cars.
"Car sales have increased by 30 to 40 per cent for this quarter alone.
"This enables car manufacturers to withstand challenging economic times because their business strategies, often involving the introduction of new car models draw in customers," he said.
Meanwhile, Nur Atikah Mustafa, 28, who recently bought her first car for Aidilfitri said although her financial situation was somewhat challenging, owning a car was a primary necessity after working in the Klang Valley for over five years.
The private sector employee from Terengganu said having her own vehicle made it easier for her to return to her hometown for Aidilfitri.
"I bought a new car to make it easier to commute to work and also to return to my hometown.
"Although I could choose to use Grab or public transportation, it is less practical since my working hours are irregular, so having my own car is more convenient," she said.
Meanwhile, trader Mazni Hanis Mansor who hailed from Johor Bahru said her dream of buying a new car came true after waiting for almost a month to own one.
The 28-year-old woman added that her old car, which she had been driving for several years, often broke down, causing inconvenience whenever she had to run errands outside.
"The car I used to drive often broke down and after having a child, I decided to buy a car and thankfully, just before Syawal, I bought a new car," she said.