One doesn't need to be a rocket scientist to figure out why Korean automotive manufacturers are catching up with the big players while Proton is still struggling. Yes, Proton is still struggling, even in Malaysia.

Let me quote this: 'Proton used to sell six out of 10 new cars in the country but for the first time in years, its market share shrank to 49 percent in 2003 as sales tumbled 27.5 percent to 155,420 units.' - AFP news report. Consumers are getting more choices for their money nowadays and after supporting Proton for such a long time it is time to say goodbye.

Another report: 'Who would have believed it? The automobile initial-quality report issued on April 28 by JD Power & Associates finds that once-derided Hyundai Motor America is challenging mighty Toyota in quality.' - BusinessWeek Online .

Korean automotive manufacturers are steadily increasing in both quality and quantity of their products enabling them to become a global player. Meanwhile in Malaysia, Proton is still struggling to produce a quality product.

Who wants to spend a huge chunk of their annual leave in Proton's service center for problems such as power windows, aquarium boot, etc? It is a safer bet to get a car from another national car manufacturer, namely Naza Kia or Perodua. And yes, we are being patriotic in supporting other national car manufacturers other than Proton.

For Proton, please stop being a cry baby. You don't need to be Albert Einstein to figure out that a consumer wants a car that is reliable and reasonably priced. As for the car that is touted as Asia's BMW, please forget it. I'd rather work hard and buy a BMW.