Malaysia could witness stronger auto sales in 2H, supported by fuel subsidies, seasonal demand, strong electric-vehicle sales and stable financing conditions, CIMB Securities' Mohd Shanaz Noor Azam writes in a note. A broader pipeline of new models from national brands could also boost auto sales, the analyst says. However, sector earnings risks persist given intensifying competition and a stronger dollar that could weigh on margins, he adds. CIMB maintains a neutral rating on Malaysia's automobile and components sector, pegging Bermaz Auto and Hi Mobility as its preferred picks. (yingxian.wong@wsj.com)