Malaysia to Integrate EVs into government fleet

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is taking significant strides towards embracing electric vehicles (EVs) within its government fleet this year, as confirmed by Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, the National Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister.

According to a report from The Star, this initiative, underscored in Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's announcement last year, marks a pivotal step in the nation's commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

However, the transition will be gradual, taking into consideration the substantial financial implications tied to the comprehensive inclusion of EVs across all government agencies.

Speaking at the soft launch of the International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM) 2024 in Kuala Lumpur, Nik Nazmi emphasized the government's cautious approach towards this significant shift.

The adaptation of EVs into the government's official fleet was also highlighted in Anwar's Budget 2024 speech, underlining the move as a crucial component of Malaysia's broader environmental sustainability goals.

In addition to the EV initiative, Nik Nazmi touched upon the management and development of rare earth elements (REE) in Malaysia, stressing the ministry's stringent measures against unauthorized REE mining activities.

Collaboration with local and state authorities aims to ensure that REE exploration aligns with governmental policies, echoing Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah of Perak's call for action against illegal REE mining due to its high economic value and environmental impact.

Nik Nazmi further highlighted Malaysia's ambition to lead in the green economy transition, referencing the outcomes of COP28 and the UAE Consensus.

The consensus advocates for a shift away from fossil fuels towards cleaner energy sources, ensuring an equitable and just transition that safeguards workers' livelihoods and positions Malaysian companies at the forefront of the green economy.

The upcoming 15th edition of IGEM, expected to draw significant global participation, underscores Malaysia's role and readiness to foster innovation and talent within the green technology and eco-products sectors, promising over RM4.8 billion in business deals and attracting hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of visitors from around the world.

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