Cover image via 
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Malaysia's national carmaker, Proton, was once a powerhouse in racing and motorsports
It has a rich and storied history in motorsports, particularly in rally and endurance racing.
This involvement has been central to the brand's identity, with its dedicated racing division serving as a crucial "Race, Rally, Research" and development arm.
Although Proton's motorsports involvement has seen some shifts in recent years, its pedigree remains strong. The brand has demonstrated its engineering prowess and provided a platform for developing performance-oriented cars.
The brand's racing history is a source of national pride and a testament to Malaysia's ability to compete on the global motorsports stage.
Here are Proton's most iconic moments throughout its racing history:
1. Dominance at the Sepang 1,000km (S1K) race
Proton showcased remarkable dominance in one of Malaysia's most gruelling endurance races, the Sepang 1,000km.
The team has racked up multiple victories in this event, showcasing the durability and performance of their race-prepared Proton models.
Notably, Proton achieved a remarkable 1-2-3 finish in the 2019 race, with the Proton Iriz, Suprima S, and Saga locking out the podium. This achievement underscored the brand's engineering prowess and strategic race craft.
2. Asia-Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) success
Building on its rallying heritage, Proton made significant strides in the prestigious FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship. A crowning achievement came when the Proton Satria Neo S2000, a car made in collaboration with British firm Mellors Elliot Motorsport, clinched the overall APRC driver's and manufacturer's titles.
This victory on the international stage against formidable competitors solidified Proton's reputation as a world-class rally team and showcased the capability of its machinery in demanding conditions.
3. The birth of the legendary Proton Satria R3
Perhaps the most significant milestone in its history is the inception of the Proton Satria R3. The original Satria R3, launched in a limited run, is arguably the most iconic of these creations.
Developed with input from Lotus, the Satria R3 was a lightweight, track-focused hot hatch that captured the hearts of motorsports enthusiasts. It featured a seam-welded chassis for increased rigidity, uprated suspension components, and a tweaked engine, delivering a raw and engaging driving experience.
The Satria R3 is now a highly collectible modern classic, a testament to Proton's ability to translate its racing DNA into a desirable road car.
