Motor vehicle sales in August fell by 7,644 units or 12.9 percent to 51,823 units from the 58,382 units in the same month last year, according to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

In a statement today, the MAA said the passenger car segment recorded sales of 45,687 units compared to 52,559 units last year, but that for commercial vehicles rose to 6,136 units from 5,823 units.

The MAA attributed the performance to a short working month due to the Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Merdeka Day holidays.

On the outlook, the MAA said motor vehicle sales in September are expected to be maintained at the August level.

“Although market conditions are not expected to change, consumer sentiment would be cautious, pending the announcement of next year's budget,” it added.

The MAA said output last month decreased to 39,346 units from 44,789 units in the same month of last year.

Passenger car production fell to 35,542 units from 41,217 units in the same month of 2011, while commercial car production rose slightly to 3,804 units from 3,572 units, in the same period last year.

- Bernama