Penang, March 18, 2010 - Penang, March 18, 2010 – Lexus Malaysia officially opened its new 3S facility in Penang, marking its first foray into the northern region. The Lexus Penang, strategically located in the heart of Georgetown is set to build its marque amongst the affluent customers.

The opening of the Lexus Penang is in tandem with Lexus Malaysia strategic direction to grow its network and strengthen its position in the luxury car segment and further capture its sales target of 400 vehicles in 2010.

The ceremony was attended by Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin, Chairman of Lexus Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd; Mr. Takashi Hibi, Deputy Chairman, Lexus Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd; Mr. Kuah Kock Heng, President of Lexus Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd; Mr. Harry Loo Chee Yan, Director of Lexus Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd; Mr. Goh Kian Sin, Managing Director, Telagamas Motors Sdn Bhd; Mr. Goh Kian Chuan, Director, Telagamas Motors Sdn Bhd and Mr. Chee Teck Seng, Director, Telagamas Motors Sdn Bhd.

With the setting of the 3S facility in Penang, Lexus will continue to offer the same level of service that exemplifies the concept of Master Craftsmanship in many ways, especially in uncompromising standards, enhanced customer experience and inline with the brand’s tagline of relentless pursuit of perfection. Driven by the true Lexus product philosophy of L-Finesse, Lexus products present incisive technology while retaining humanity and warmth.

"Having completed the Brand Awareness Phase over the past 3 years, we are now moving to expand the network presence. With expansion plans in place, we aim to grow our market share," said Mr. Kuah.

Since entering the local market in December 2006 with the introduction of the LS 460L and GS 300, offering prestigious, high-performance with premium high quality vehicle, Lexus Malaysia has sold more than 700 units of Lexus vehicles.

Last year alone, Lexus Malaysia put more than 300 new Lexus vehicles on the road with the Lexus RX350 as their best selling model.

He also said, "The opening of Lexus Penang marks the start of extending our reach to be even closer to our customers." In line with their expansion plans, Lexus Malaysia will also reaching out to its customers in the south, with a similar Lexus facility.

The RM1.5 million facilities, is considered one of the latest showroom in the northern region. Telagamas Motors Sdn Bhd. who was awarded the dealership last year, has a credible track record of over 28 years in the auto industry, especially in the northern region.

Commenting on the appointed dealer, Mr. Kuah Kock Heng, President of Lexus Malaysia, remarked, "We appointed Telagamas Motors Sdn. Bhd. as our partner, as Telagamas has proven track record in the auto industry, strong management capabilities, as well as their commitment and dedication shown in undertaking necessary preparations for Lexus operation."

Mr. Goh Kian Sin, Managing Director of Telagamas Motor Sdn Bhd said, "We thank the UMW Toyota Motor management team for giving us this privilege to be associated with this reputable brand, Lexus, a luxury car brand that is committed to offer to car owners unparalleled products and services."

"Lexus Penang is strategically located in the centre of Georgetown, will be another landmark to watch out for. I am sure it will attract potential customers to visit the showroom and encounter the true Lexus Experience," continued Mr. Goh.

The Lexus Penang Showroom occupies a total built-up area of 10,000 square feet, which houses a luxury lounge area and a customer waiting lounge with a cafe. It also boasts of a showroom that can display all Lexus models at one time. The concept and architecture of the showroom also reflects the essence of the Lexus brand identity.

An area of 15,000 square feet is allocated for the service centre and customer parking area. It also offers a conducive environment for customers to enjoy the Lexus experience. The Lexus service centre will be open in June this year.