A man walking past a poster that informs customers that Bitcoin can be used in this shop in Tokyo. — AFP
SUBANG JAYA: Proton has dismissed claims on social media that the Bitcoin cryptocurrency can be used to buy its cars.
It said in a statement that it does not recognise such transaction or offer. It said this following allegations that a dealer was accepting Bitcoin, and another cryptocurrency Ethereum, from the public for the purchase of Proton cars.
Needless to say Proton was not amused and it has suspended the dealer who is now under investigation.
The national car maker said that while it was open to innovative ways to selling cars, Bitcoin, or any other virtual currency, was not one of them.
"We would also like to caution our sales network to exercise consideration and due care in carrying out promotion activities which are not endorsed by the company," it added.
It makes one wonder how many Malaysians out there actually own Bitcoins or other cryptocurrencies.
The price of a Bitcoin has in the past two years surged past US$20,000 (RM79,800) before dropping to around US$16,000 (around RM64,000).
Bank Negara has not banned the use of Bitcoin, which is even recognised as legal tender in a number of countries such as Japan and Canada.
