With reference to the letter Proton: All the hallmarks of Malaysian big business , I can't help but feel that this writer has hit the nail in the head in uncovering the real reason for Proton's difficulties.

Proton's inaction (not merely perceived) and its inability to focus on their raison d'etre - which should be making decent cars - will be their undoing. A clear case of pandering to the product but forgetting the purpose.

I think every Malaysian deep down truly wants Proton to succeed, only that we have been let down for far too long. Proton's inability to take corrective and pre-emptive measures over the course of the last decade has made its existence an embarrassment the nation can do without.

This is unfortunate and ironic - given the launch of the Savvy - but not unwarranted in the eyes of a disillusioned and unforgiving public. The flag-waving died down years ago, replaced by horror stories aplenty.

More protection for Proton will only prolong the agony. No, what can save Proton now is possibly some form of gesture to restore the faith of its customers, past, present and future. Whether in the form of an admission of past wrongs, financial incentives or simply better products, it could be said that the brand now needs rescuing.

Whether or not it has the resources and capability to do this is doubtful notwithstanding all the time and goodwill they've already lost. The government will soon run out of patience and funds. The public has already lost its patience and our funds, diverted elsewhere.

For all our sakes, and including for our national pride, I think we need Volkswagen . Proton, however, may need to be laid to rest, so that the company, and its employees, may live. And admitting that we gave it our best shot but couldn't do it, is much better than continuing to fool ourselves.