Source: jethuynh (123rf)

The transport sector plays a significant role in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, with road transport accounting for around 89% of total transport-related emissions in Southeast Asia (SEA).[1] To combat these emissions and stimulate investments and job creation, Southeast Asian nations, including prominent automobile producers, are swiftly advancing initiatives to encourage Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption and manufacturing.

Malaysia, too, is in the early stages of developing its electric vehicle (EV) landscape. In support of EV adoption and infrastructure expansion, the Malaysian government unveiled the National Electric Mobility Blueprint (NEMB) in 2019, aiming to have 100,000 EVs on Malaysian roads by 2030.

This endeavour has been embraced by the Penang State Government, aligned with the Penang2030 vision. The vision prioritises investment in the built environment to enhance resilience and establish Penang as a leader in promoting zero-emission mobility.

Within Penang, collaborative efforts involving the State Government, the Penang Green Council, and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) have resulted in the installation of complimentary electric motorcycle charging stations. These stations have been operational since 2022 and are strategically located across the island.

According to Zairil Khir Johari, a Penang state executive council member and chairman of the state’s infrastructure and transport committee, this initiative aims to encourage the use of e-motorcycles in line with Penang’s goal of reducing its carbon footprint by 50% by 2030.[2]

The Penang State Government welcomes and supports local e-motorbike manufacturers and major goods or food delivery companies in establishing joint ventures. This approach aims to promote zero-emission mobility and enhance the well-being of the B40 groups actively involved in the delivery sector within the state.[3]

In Malaysia, interest and attention towards electric vehicles (EVs) are gradually growing. The government has introduced various incentives for EV owners, including exemptions from import and excise duties on EVs, as well as lower road tax rates for these vehicles.

Given the worldwide surge in interest in EVs and the government’s proactive initiatives and awareness campaigns, the adoption of EVs in Malaysia is expected to witness substantial growth in the coming years.

Footnotes:

[1] Tham Siew Yean. (2022). Mapping the Surge in EV Production in Southeast Asia. ISEAS, ISSUE: 2022, No. 112.

[2] Lim, Anthony. (2022). Penang introduces e-motorcycle charging stations – free for public use, nine locations across the island. https://paultan.org/2022/06/08/penang-introduces-e-motorcycle-charging-stations-free-for-public-use-nine-locations-across-the-island/

[3] Press Release. Launching of electric motorcycles charging stations press conference. Retrieved from https://www.pgc.com.my/2020/launching-of-electric-motorcycle-charging-stations-press-conference/

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