Proton reviews creative account in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR – Proton is believed to be in the process of reviewing its creative account in Malaysia with up to five agencies including incumbent McCann Erickson lining up for the pitch.

Other agencies that are reportedly involved in the current review include Leo Burnett, M&C Saatchi, Milk+Co and Ogilvy & Mather. None of the agencies could be reached for comment.

The review, which happens every two or three years, is thought to be statutory for government-linked firms in the country.

In 2008, McCann Erickson emerged victoriously from a three-month long review of the national carmaker's advertising account. The account was estimated to be worth RM45 million (US$14 million) then.

Last year, Proton launched its first locally made multi purpose vehicle, the highly-anticipated Exora, with a through-the-line drive.

The Malaysian car brand recently reported a return to the black for the financial year ending in March with a profit of 239 million ringgit (US$72 million), from a loss of 302 million ringgit (US$91 million) the previous year.