Naza Auto plans business shake-up to boost profits and cash flow

KUALA LUMPUR: Naza Automotive Group (Naza Auto) is revamping its business to focus more on its main car brands.

According to group chief executive officer Rizal Jailan, this change is part of a larger plan to improve operations, increase profits, and strengthen financial stability within three years while adapting to market change.

Rizal said Naza Auto will keep improving how it operates to focus more on its main automotive brands, and slowly reduce its involvement in lifestyle and niche segments that no longer fit the company’s new goals.

“To do this, we’ve been closely reviewing every brand we manage to decide the best way forward. We’re aiming for a 20% return on equity (ROE) for our distribution business and 8% for our retail operations,” he said.

He also said the company is putting in stronger internal controls, better financial reporting, and regular audits to improve transparency and build trust with all stakeholders.

One of the key plans is to more than double the number of Suzuki Cars Malaysia dealerships over the next three years, he said.

Rizal also said the company is working on improving customer service and experience, as satisfied customers are more likely to return and stay loyal to the brand.

The 50-year-old Naza Auto is also exploring new brands and opportunities, including in electric vehicles. It expects to expand into a new market within Asean this year, focusing on brands it already handles in Malaysia.