A Malaysian car salesperson recently went viral after posting an open message asking buyers to stop demanding too many free gifts when purchasing a vehicle.
The post appeared in a local automotive Facebook group and was addressed to those who often request full loans while expecting extra gifts on top of existing deals.
Claims commission is already low
In the post, the salesperson explained that what buyers receive is already more than generous.
They added that some gifts come out of their own pockets because the commission earned per sale isn’t very high.
It was also pointed out that some vehicle models offer very minimal commission to sales staff.
As a result, the salesperson said it’s hard to cover extra costs, especially when customers expect full packages and add-ons without paying more.
Netizens respond with mixed views
The post sparked a wide range of reactions online. One user criticised the salesperson, saying: “If you didn’t want to give free gifts, don’t promise them in the first place just to make a sale.”
Another shared their experience, writing: “I was told I’d get a full tank, but when I collected the car, it was only slightly below half. When I asked, the salesperson said half was already good. I just sighed.”
Another user criticised the salesperson for being selective about when to speak up, saying:
When you make thousands in commission, no one hears a word. But when a customer asks for a small gift, suddenly it’s a big issue. That’s just how some people are.”
Some support the salesperson
However, some took a more neutral stance. One person commented: “When I bought mine, I didn’t ask for free gifts. To me, a salesperson who’s reliable and committed is more valuable than gifts. What’s the point if the service is poor?”
Ongoing debate in the car market
The issue of whether buyers should expect extra perks remains a hot topic.
According to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), Malaysia’s Total Industry Volume (TIV) hit a record 820,752 units in 2025.
That means competition between brands and dealers stays intense, and promos stay aggressive.
MAA also projected 2026 sales to cool to about 790,000 units, suggesting the market may soften after several strong years.
In other words, buyers are used to getting “deals”, while salespeople are trying to close in a market where expectations are high and margins can be tight.
