Netizens Are Calling PMX A Hypocrite For Riding A Bulletproof BMW 7 Series—But Here’s The Plot Twist

Netizens are calling PMX a hypocrite over a bulletproof BMW 7 Series. But here is the massive government plot twist behind the armored vault on wheels.(Image courtesy of paultan.org)

If you’ve been scrolling through social media over the last 24 hours, you’ve likely seen the viral snaps of a rather intimidating BMW 7 Series. A leading local automotive portal, Paul Tan’s Automotive News, recently broke the news that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was spotted using this bulletproof BMW 7 Series Protection for his ride to the Teksi Madani event, and it didn't take long for the internet to hit the "hypocrisy" alarm.

Many were quick to point out that this is the same PM who famously rejected a new Mercedes S-Class when he took office in 2022, opting for a humble Toyota Camry to prove his commitment to frugality. Naturally, with the sight of a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 armored limousine, critics were quick to ask: “So much for being frugal?”

But before you join the pile-on, there is a massive plot twist.

It’s Not Actually His New Ride

According to a follow-up report by Paul Tan today, on July 7, the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) and the Protocol and International Conference Secretariat Division (BIUPA) have officially cleared the air: This BMW 7 Series Protection is not a new purchase, and not one sen of new taxpayer money was spent on it.

Here is the breakdown of why he’s in the "Beemer" instead of his usual ride:

• A "State-Owned" Asset: The car belongs to BIUPA, the division specifically responsible for transporting visiting heads of state. It is an existing government asset, not a new acquisition.
• Maintenance Issues: His official car, the Mercedes-Benz S580e gifted by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, is currently undergoing routine maintenance.
• Police Advice: The swap wasn't a choice made for "luxury" optics. JPM clarified that the vehicle was selected for temporary use by the Prime Minister based on the advice and security assessment of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).

Why Is This Car So "Extra"?

According to technical breakdowns of the armored limousine, even if he’s just borrowing it, this car is an absolute beast. It’s not just a standard 7 Series; it’s a factory-built BMW 7 Series Protection.

BMW 7 Series Protection spotted at Teksi Madani event (Images courtesy of paultan.org)

If you spotted those thick windows and "plump" tires, your eyes weren't deceiving you. This thing is built like a mobile vault:

• Bullet & Explosion Proof: Certified with a VPAM 9 rating (with glass hitting the highest VPAM 10 tier), meaning it can withstand 7.62x54mm R sniper rounds.
• Anti-Drone Tech: The roof and underbody are heavily layered to handle modern security risks, including drone strikes and hand grenades.
• Self-Sealing Fuel Tank: Even if it’s hit by gunfire, the tank automatically seals to prevent dangerous leaks.
• Run-Flat PAX Tires: If a tire gets shredded, the car can still hit speeds of up to 80 km/h to safely get the PM out of a danger zone.
• "Spy" Mode: The automated roller sun shades have a specialized setting that lets the passenger see out while keeping the interior completely hidden from prying eyes.

The Bottom Line

It’s easy to see why the initial optics might look conflicting to those who remember his earlier stance on government spending. However, from a security standpoint, it’s a completely different story.

When PDRM determines that a national leader faces modern risk factors, security protocols often take precedence over personal public relations. Because the car was already sitting in the government's inventory, using it during a maintenance window for his primary vehicle is actually the most logical (and cost-effective) choice.