D-MAX STORY

Adventures Across Terrains & Generations

Tan Chee Yong: A Testament to Durability and Versatility

Tan Chee Yong, an engineer by profession, has embarked on an extraordinary journey of exploration with his family in the Isuzu D-Max 1.9L 4×4 AT Standard. This tale of adventure, spanning from Thailand to Laos, highlights the D-Max as not just a vehicle, but a reliable partner in discovery. Chee Yong’s choice of the D-Max is a nod to Isuzu’s legacy of crafting versatile and durable vehicles, a trait he deeply values. 

Chee Yong’s affinity for pickup trucks was sparked during his time in Taiwan, where he experienced their flexibility and adaptability firsthand. This preference was further influenced by his father’s use of the first-generation Isuzu D-Max for quarry work, making the Isuzu brand a trusted name in the Tan household. Chee Yong’s decision to continue this family tradition with Isuzu reflects both a personal preference and a generational trust in the brand’s reliability and performance.

Contrary to his colleagues’ and friends’ perception of him as a reserved, tech-focused engineer, Chee Yong’s adventurous spirit is evident in his passion for driving and exploring the outdoors. The Isuzu D-Max has enabled him to pursue his dream of expeditionary journeys, bridging his professional persona with his love for adventure. 

The Isuzu D-Max Standard 1.9L, handpicked by Chee Yong for its harmonious blend of power, fuel efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, has become an integral part of his family’s lifestyle. Its design, akin to an SUV, offers a stable and comfortable journey, making every road trip a delightful experience for the whole family. This feature is especially crucial in Chee Yong’s mission to educate his children through overlanding activities, providing them with firsthand experiences of the world beyond what books can offer. The vehicle has been instrumental in introducing his children to a variety of natural and cultural experiences, thereby reinforcing the significance of exploration and discovery in strengthening family bonds. Through these journeys in their Isuzu D-Max, Chee Yong hopes to instill a sense of adventure and a deeper understanding of the world in his children, blending learning with the joy of travel.

A highlight of Chee Yong’s adventures with the D-Max was a two-week, 5300 km overlanding trip through Thailand and Laos in 2020. The vehicle’s performance in challenging conditions, from inclement weather to rugged terrains, and its remarkable fuel efficiency, underscored its capability as a dependable family overlanding vehicle.

In recognition of the D-Max’s integral role in his travels, Chee Yong created a sand painting video upon his return, celebrating the journey and expressing gratitude to Isuzu Malaysia. This gesture is a testament to the profound impact the D-Max has had on his life, surpassing expectations and enabling unforgettable family experiences.

“The rugged terrain of these countries was no match for our D-Max, which handled it all with ease. The car’s powerful performance made our journey all the more memorable and enjoyable. Although I was using the 1.9 standard model” – Chee Yong

The story of Chee Yong and the Isuzu D-Max is a compelling narrative of adventure, family bonding, and the enduring legacy of a brand that has stood the test of time and terrain. It exemplifies Isuzu’s commitment to providing vehicles that are not just modes of transportation, but catalysts for life’s adventures.