“What about drivers’ safety?” – Wee Ka Siong Questions the Lack of Safety Features in RM22K Perodua Axia E

If something is cheap and affordable, does it necessarily mean a compromise on the quality?

Just last week, Perodua launched its latest car, Axia E 1.0 MT at a surprisingly affordable price – at only RM22,000. It’s by far the cheapest car in Malaysia, and it’s certainly good news for those who have a tight budget but are in need of their own transport, especially students. Buying a car is 1 of the biggest achievements in life and a lot of consideration is given before buying one.

But does the cheap price come with everything you need in a car? Former Minister of Transport, Dato Seri Wee Ka Siong said that in terms of quality, Perodua Axia E could’ve been better despite its low price. 

“Low cost does not mean lack of safety features”

The low price of the car will undeniably ease a lot of the burden on the buyers but the lack of safety features might not be a wise idea, according to Wee.

“An RM22K car must also have have the basic car safety configuration, including anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).”

In his Facebook post last night (18 June), Wee said that regardless of the price, all cars must include basic car safety features that have been introduced by various automobile manufacturers. He added that research has shown that cars with ESC will reduce vehicle fatality rates by 40%, as well as decrease the risk of an accident.

“ABS and ESC have been proven effective in reducing accidents, and the price is not as expensive as in the past.”

Saving cost vs safety

In the meantime, Wee also urged the manufacturer to re-examine Axia E which lacks the basic automobile safety configuration.

“If other manufacturers follow suit, what about the drivers’ safety? This will have a serious impact,” Wee said.

He continued to express his concern and reflect on one possibility – will the future manufacturer abandon the safety features on the basis of saving cost? At the end of his post, Wee urged the government to make sure all cars come with safety features for the sake of the drivers’ safety.

Perodua Axia E also does not come with speakers, and you can browse through its features on its official website.

Are you aiming for Perodua Axia E in the future? Do you agree with Wee’s take on this matter?

Also read: Wee Ka Siong Brings Local & Imported Eggs into Parliament to Talk About Prices & Sizes