Why did Dr Mahathir drive President Jokowi in a Proton?

Question

Accepted Answer

Dr Mahathir Drove President Jokowi in a Proton Persona as a Diplomatic Gesture

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad drove Indonesian President Joko Widodo in a Proton Persona to a luncheon hosted at Seri Perdana, the prime minister's official residence. This occasion marked the second time Dr Mahathir personally drove President Widodo in a Malaysian national car, underscoring a continued connection between the two leaders and the Proton brand. The event occurred during President Widodo's two-day visit to Malaysia.
A Personal Diplomatic Touch

Dr Mahathir took the initiative to drive President Joko Widodo himself in a red Proton Persona, identified by the registration number B 2367 A, from the Perdana Putra Building to the luncheon venue. This personal act of chauffeuring by the Malaysian Prime Minister added a distinctive element to the diplomatic engagement, highlighting a degree of personal rapport between the two leaders beyond formal proceedings. The convoy of other vehicles followed Dr Mahathir's Proton Persona.
Historical Precedent with Proton

This instance was not the first time Dr Mahathir had provided President Widodo with a Proton car experience. Previously, in February 2015, Dr Mahathir had driven President Widodo in a Proton car for a test drive at the Sepang race circuit. At that time, Dr Mahathir held the position of chairman of Proton, indicating a long-standing association with the national automotive manufacturer.
Significance of the National Car

The use of a Proton car, particularly driven by the Prime Minister, carries symbolic weight. Proton is Malaysia's pioneering national car brand, established with the aim of fostering industrial development and national pride. By personally driving the Indonesian President in a Proton, Dr Mahathir likely intended to showcase a key Malaysian industrial product and reinforce bilateral ties through a shared experience involving a product of national significance.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why did Dr Mahathir drive President Jokowi in a Proton?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends