DPM Reaffirms 10,000 EV Chargers Target, But Are We REALLY On Track?

In an address to over 200 Malaysian entrepreneurs and students in Bangkok’s Bang Rak district, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof reiterated Malaysia’s target of establishing 10,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations nationwide by the end of 2025.

Fadillah, who also serves as the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, emphasized Malaysia’s ambition to become a regional hub for EV production and innovation, as well as to strengthen the entire EV value chain.

“Our focus is on improving and upgrading nationwide charging infrastructure to stimulate EV sales and attract new investors,” he stated, reaffirming the government's commitment to a cleaner transportation future.

This initiative is aligned with Malaysia’s National Investment Aspirations, which aim to position the country as a global supply chain hub by attracting high-quality investments and enhancing local industry capabilities.

However, as we approach the halfway mark of 2025, it’s clear that a more measured and realistic outlook may be necessary. According to data from MEVNet - a platform created to promote transparency and accountability in the EV sector - Malaysia currently has just 3,611 EV charging bays (EVCB), consisting of 2,516 AC chargers and 1,095 DC chargers.

Aptly, these numbers fall well short of the 10,000-unit target. Compounding the issue, MEVNet’s last data update was on Dec 31, 2024, raising questions about current progress and the commitment to data transparency.

While the DC charger goal of 1,500 units appears somewhat attainable, the broader picture highlights deeper systemic challenges. Notably, the DPM did not address the ongoing slowdown in EV charger deployment in fact  none of our elected officials are.

This deceleration has been publicly highlighted by charge point operators (CPOs) and automotive brands. A key concern is the absence of a long-term policy framework from the government.

With the end-of-2025 deadline for EV import duty exemptions fast approaching, the lack of strategic direction has led to hesitancy around CKD (completely knocked down) investments.

It may be time for the relevant ministries to sit down and reassess both the goals and the roadmap needed to achieve them. Industry stakeholders remain eager to invest and contribute - as they did before momentum stalled - but they need clear, consistent, and long-term commitments from the government.

Crucially, the government must remember that businesses are not NGOs. Without incentives, financial safeguards, or a stable policy environment, it’s unreasonable to expect companies to invest in high-risk ventures, especially under a purely public-private partnership model.

Ultimately, turning ambition into achievement will require more than just setting targets. It demands clear direction, strong collaboration and meaningful support to ensure Malaysia can truly lead in the EV infrastructure space.