Malaysia Minister stresses need for EV ecosystem and charging infrastructure

Malaysia's Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, has stated that the entry of affordable electric vehicles (EVs) into the domestic market must be accompanied by the development of a complete ecosystem, specifically public charging facilities.

Speaking at the opening of the Autodeutsch Petronas AutoExpert flagship service center in Kuala Lumpur, Johari noted that while the government does not oppose EV technology, the transition cannot be aggressive without ensuring infrastructure readiness. He highlighted that unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which benefit from established networks of service centers, spare parts, and petrol stations, EVs lack this established support system.

A primary concern is the accessibility of charging for residents in high-density housing, such as flats and low-cost housing projects (PPR), who may face constraints regarding building management and electrical capacity. Johari emphasized that importers must ensure an ecosystem exists alongside vehicle sales to prevent consumer hardship. He added that the government aims to ensure the automotive industry, valued at approximately RM80 billion, evolves with technology without disrupting the existing economic support chain.