DRB-Hicom: We've been eyeing Proton deal

DRB-Hicom Bhd has always been eyeing for an opportunity to strike a deal with Proton Holdings Bhd to explore a viable
proposal that will benefit and add value to its business and expansion plans.

The company said it viewed the national car maker as an important player in the Malaysian automotive industry.

In
a reference to Bursa Malaysia's telephone query on an article, which
appeared in the newspapers today, DRB-Hicom said it has submitted a bid
to acquire Proton's shares held by Khazanah Nasional Bhd, the
government's investment arm.

"As at to date, the proposal is pending Khazanah's decision," DRB-Hicom said in a filing to Bursa Malaysia.

Khazanah controls 42.7 per cent stake in the national auto company.

DRB-Hicom
Group managing director Datuk Seri Mohd Khamil Jamil said yesterday the
group has put in a bid for the national car maker.

He said it was up to the owner, Khazanah, to decide on the best suitor.

DRB-Hicom
is the second company to have declared its interest in Proton after
Proton chairman Datuk Seri Mohd Nadzmi Mohd Salleh had stated his
intention on Thursday. -- BERNAMA