The Proton Wira, a popular car in Malaysia, has retained its status as the “most stolen vehicle” for an 11th consecutive year, according to the Vehicle Theft Reduction Council of Malaysia. The council’s coordinator, Mas Tina Abdul Hamid, said the list was based on claims received by insurance companies. A total of 131 Wiras were reported stolen in 2021, followed by the Proton Iswara with 75 reported cases.
The Toyota Hilux is the most stolen foreign-made car with 65 cases in 2021, placing it in fourth place, just behind the Perodua Kancil. The Perodua Myvi, often dubbed “the king of the road,” was sixth on the list. Mas Tina noted that older and more popular car models are often targeted by thieves, and she believes the Myvi will soon become a favorite among thieves.
She also pointed out that the recent shortage of vehicle spare parts due to the Covid-19 pandemic has made the problem worse. Additionally, data provided to The Star showed that one Yamaha 135LC is stolen every day, making it the most stolen make of motorcycle in 2021.
Thieves often target the latest models, strip them, and sell the parts. They also sell stolen vehicles and components at low prices. Customers who agree to their offers will deposit money into the account belonging to the syndicate before the stolen vehicles or components are sent to them using registered parcel service, said Mas Tina.
She added that it is very difficult for authorities to corner the syndicates, which employ different groups of people.
