IN August, Malaysia witnessed a significant surge in vehicle sales, with 71,745 units sold, marking a 13% increase compared to the 63,676 units sold in July.

This boost in sales was attributed to improved supply chain conditions and National Day promotional campaigns by various car companies.

According to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), this figure also reflects a 6% rise compared to the 67,609 units sold in August of the previous year.

The MAA noted that in terms of volume, this achievement represents the second-highest monthly total industry volume (TIV) recorded in 2023, with the monthly TIV surpassing the 70,000 mark for the second time this year.

The highest monthly TIV was reached in March 2023, with 78,849 units sold.

Breaking down the sales figures, passenger vehicle sales saw a notable increase, rising from 60,725 units in August of the previous year to 64,633 units.

Similarly, commercial vehicle sales also experienced growth, climbing from 6,884 units to 7,112 units during the same period.

With the August numbers factored in, the total vehicles sold in the first eight months of the year reached 501,552 units, representing a 12% increase compared to the same period last year.

Vehicle production in August slightly exceeded the previous month, with 67,912 units manufactured, a 2% increase from July’s 66,862 units.

However, it fell short of the 69,378 units produced in August of the previous year. For the year’s first eight months, vehicle production amounted to 497,309 units, a 13% increase from the corresponding period in the previous year.

Looking ahead, MAA anticipates that vehicle sales for September will remain at a similar level to those in August of this year. – TMR