by FAYYADH JAAFAR / pic by MUHD AMIN NAHARUL

THE Malaysian Used Vehicles Autoparts Traders Association (Muvata) is offering discounts to their members for the sale of used parts to flood victims. 

Additionally, Muvata aims to collaborate with the General Insurance Association of Malaysia (PIAM) to help their customers with flood insurance coverage to lower their repair expenses. 

Muvata president Heng Kim Siang said the association was concerned about the increase in the number of flood victims after the recent heavy rainfall in several states. 

He added that it is estimated that as many as 50,000 cars were damaged in the recent floods in Selangor and Pahang. 

“We would like to do more to help the flood victims who need affordable spare parts for their damaged vehicles,” he said in a press conference yesterday. 

Heng said Muvata’s members had received many calls from their customers who needed used vehicle parts to repair their damaged vehicles. 

On such occasions, he said the role of used vehicle parts is especially important because they provide a more affordable alternative to car owners who have to spend money not only on their car repairs but also on replacing damaged furniture and electrical appliances in their homes. 

“Not every car owner, especially those who do not have flood insurance coverage, can afford to buy new spare parts to replace the damaged parts in their vehicles. 

“Muvata’s members are glad to be able to provide this sort of service and replacement option to their customers in the areas affected by the recent floods,” he explained. 

Bangi MP Ong Kian Ming who is also present during the press conference said he is assisting Muvata in reaching out to PIAM to help their customers with flood insurance coverage to lower their repair expenses. 

“I would like to facilitate a meeting with PIAM to see how there can be a long-term partnership between them and Muvata to assist their customers, whether it is for the flood victims or others.

“It’s not just to save more money for their customers but also as an environmentally friendly way to reduce waste,” said Ong.

He added that this is especially relevant to those with flood insurance and vehicles that are more than five years old, whereby if the auto workshop uses new parts for these vehicles, customers will have to pay anywhere between 15% and 40% of the cost of these new parts as a result of this “betterment” policy.