PETALING JAYA: Car buyers are willing to wait up to half a year for their dream ride due to supply shortages faced by the automobile industry.

       IT engineer Thinesh Raj from Rawang said he has been waiting two months for his Mazda CX-3 to arrive and has expected delays.

       ALSO READ: Shortage of used cars, too

       Since the booking has been made and loans have been sorted, he is willing to wait up to six months for his new car to arrive.

       “I might just wait it through till the end,” the 33-year old said.

       ALSO READ: MAA: Car prices will rise due to ongoing delays

       Thinesh urged the government to extend the sales tax (SST) exemption that is slated to end this month, as it would benefit lower-income buyers.

       “I think the government should extend (the exemption) for the sake of car buyers, especially buyers of the local brands,” he added.

       Student Nurul Afiqah Kamal Ariffin, 23, who booked a Perodua Axia Gxtra, is also willing to wait up to six months for her new car.

       “I was told by the sales adviser that I might get the car within two to three months at the earliest.

       “If the time comes and I haven’t got it yet, I’m still willing to wait another three months,” she said.

       Industry players have said that the manufacturing of cars will continue to be delayed if shortage of parts remains unresolved.

       A writer who wanted to be known only as Lim from Petaling Jaya said he is willing to endure a six-month wait for his vehicle.

       “I believe a six-month wait is reasonable given the many uncertainties now.

       “I also know of some buyers who had to wait for about the same time just to get spare parts,” he said.