Electric Vehicles: A Sustainable Solution for Malaysia’s Energy Security
A Call to Action
Deputy Minister for Investment, Trade and Industry, Liew Chin Tong, has emphasized the need for Malaysia to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce petrol usage and restore the country’s position as a net exporter of petroleum.
The Benefits of Electric Vehicles
Populating Malaysian roads with EVs would not only help reduce the fiscal burden of petrol subsidies but also contribute to building a more climate-friendly nation. Liew Chin Tong stressed that Malaysia should aim to electrify to reduce the total amount of petrol used, as the current focus on subsidy rationalisation is mainly useful from a fiscal point of view.
A Target of 20% by 2030
"If we get our act together, Malaysia can see the exponential growth of EVs on our roads in the next five years, to reach the target of 20% of vehicles in 2030," he said.
Malaysia’s Energy Security
Liew emphasized that Malaysia’s energy security lies in restoring the nation as a net exporter of petroleum, and in looking at EVs as the solution. He urged the government to do more to promote public transport to reduce the need for driving, stating, "Users who rely on their vehicles still need to drive, unless there are viable alternatives. We should do a lot more for public transport to reduce the need for driving."
Global Trends and Local Challenges
Liew noted that EVs formed 18% of global vehicle sales last year, compared to 2% in 2018. Malaysia’s adoption of EVs is significantly slower than Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore. In 2023, Malaysia sold 799,731 motor vehicles, of which only 1.2% were battery electric vehicles (10,159 units). "Yet, Malaysia has a very sizable total industry volume and highest per capita sales of cars in Southeast Asia," he said. Last year, Malaysia sold about 78,000 more motor vehicles than in 2022.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the adoption of electric vehicles is crucial for Malaysia to reduce petrol usage and restore its position as a net exporter of petroleum. With the government’s support and investment, Malaysia can reach its target of 20% of vehicles being electric by 2030, contributing to a more sustainable and climate-friendly future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the current level of EV adoption in Malaysia?
According to the deputy minister, only 1.2% of motor vehicles sold in 2023 were battery electric vehicles. - What is the target for EV adoption in Malaysia by 2030?
The target is to have 20% of vehicles in Malaysia be electric by 2030. - How does Malaysia’s EV adoption compare to other countries in the region?
Malaysia’s adoption of EVs is significantly slower than Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore. - What is the current energy security situation in Malaysia?
Malaysia’s energy security lies in restoring the nation as a net exporter of petroleum, and in looking at EVs as the solution.