Trump Lauds Malaysia’s Small Cars, Pushes U.S. Carmakers Toward Compact Models
KUCHING — Malaysia’s compact cars unexpectedly took the spotlight in Washington after former United States President Donald Trump highlighted them during a White House media briefing, describing the vehicles as “very small, really cute” and popular across Asia.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said his recent visits to Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea opened his eyes to the growing demand for compact cars in the region. He noted that many consumers in Asia prefer small, affordable vehicles — a trend he now believes could reshape the American automotive market.
Trump claimed U.S. manufacturers had previously been restricted by regulations from producing smaller models similar to the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. However, he announced that he had authorised the U.S. Transportation Secretary to immediately approve the development and production of compact cars within the country.
“If you go to Japan, where I just left, and if you go to South Korea, Malaysia and other countries, they have a very small car, sort of like the Beetle used to be,” he said. “They’re very small, they’re really cute… Some of them are really beautiful, actually.”
A short clip of Trump’s remarks, shared on social platform X by user @Acyn, quickly gained traction online. The comments also reignited discussions about the rising popularity of compact car models produced by Japanese manufacturers such as Honda.
Trump argued that smaller vehicles could offer Americans cheaper and more practical options, especially for first-time car buyers. He said compact models may encourage more people to purchase new vehicles instead of relying on older, less reliable ones.
“These cars are good, cheaper, and give people an opportunity to own a new vehicle instead of an old one that may be unsatisfactory,” he added.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy later confirmed that regulatory adjustments were already underway. The move aims to allow companies like Toyota and other automakers to design and produce affordable, fuel-efficient compact cars domestically.
“We have simplified the rules so manufacturers can make these cars in the U.S. and sell them here,” Duffy said.
Industry observers note that Trump’s statement could open the door for new competition in the U.S. car market, potentially signalling a shift toward small, value-driven models long favoured in Malaysia and the wider Asian region. – NST
