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Penang Chief Minister Urges Federal Government to Strengthen EV Policy Framework

Penang's Chief Minister has called on the federal government to establish robust electric vehicle policies and ensure effective implementation to maintain investor confidence in the sector.

LSN Malaysia · 21 August 2026

Penang Chief Minister Urges Federal Government to Strengthen EV Policy Framework

The Chief Minister of Penang has emphasized the need for stronger oversight of electric vehicle policies at the federal level, warning that inconsistent or weak frameworks risk undermining investor confidence in Malaysia's EV sector.

In remarks addressing the state's economic development strategy, the Chief Minister stressed that Putrajaya must not only formulate comprehensive EV policies but also ensure their consistent implementation across all relevant agencies and jurisdictions.

The statement comes as Malaysia seeks to position itself as a regional hub for electric vehicle manufacturing and adoption. Industry observers note that conflicting or unclear policies across different states can create uncertainty for both domestic and foreign investors considering major commitments to the sector.

The Chief Minister's call reflects Penang's broader interest in attracting EV-related investments and manufacturing operations. The state has previously positioned itself as a competitive destination for the automotive industry, and clear national policy direction is seen as essential to realizing this potential.

The remarks underscore ongoing discussions between state and federal authorities regarding the harmonization of EV policies and the need for coordinated implementation strategies to support Malaysia's transition toward electric mobility.