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If you’re planning to head to Bukit Bintang in early Jan, take note as Kuala Lumpur’s busiest shopping street will be fully closed on two nights for a major lighting event.
Jalan Bukit Bintang will shut down in stages on Jan 1 for a rehearsal and again on Jan 3 for the official launch of the “I Lite U” Festival 2026 Lighting Programme. According to Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief, Assistant Commissioner Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa, both closures will cover the stretch from Pavilion Kuala Lumpur to the Federal Hotel.

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The rehearsal on Jan 1 will start from 6PM onwards, while the main event on Jan 3 will run from 7.30PM to 10PM , with full road closures during those periods.
The closures will be managed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), and motorists are advised to plan their trips early, expect diversions, and follow traffic instructions in the area to avoid unnecessary delays.

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The Kelantan Public Works Department (JKR) has identified <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/09/sand-log-trucks-dominate-kelantan-roads-jpj" target="_blank" style="">29 federal roads across nine districts that urgently need maintenance after suffering damage from this year’s Northeast Monsoon.</a>
Kelantan JKR director Nik Badlihisham Nik Ismail said the roads, which span Kota Bharu, Machang, Pasir Puteh, Pasir Mas, Tanah Merah, Tumpat, Jeli, Bachok, and Gua Musang, have developed potholes and other issues that require immediate attention.

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21011/16618422/KR-identifies-more-than-20-federal-roads-in-Kelantan-750x375.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618422" alt="KR-identifies-more-than-20-federal-roads-in-Kelantan-750x375.jpg"> 

“Gua Musang has seven federal roads that need to be maintained, including Jalan Kuala Betis, Jalan Lojing-Gua Musang, Jalan Masuk Sungai Chiku 7 and 8, Jalan Chiku-Aring 5, Jalan Penempatan Aring 5, Jalan Chiku-Aring Felda Jalan Masuk Aring 2 and 3, and Jalan Dalam LKP Aring 8 and 9,” he told Bernama.He further stated that <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/04/kelantan-set-to-receive-8-electric-buses-worth-rm112mil" target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Kota Bharu has six roads in need of repair</a>, including Jalan Pasir Puteh-Kota Bharu, Jalan Wakaf Che Yeh-Salor-Pasir Mas, Jalan Kota Bharu-Pengkalan Chepa, Jalan Gua Musang-Kota Bharu, Jalan Pantai Cahaya Bulan, and Jalan Sultan Ismail Petra. Jeli and Tanah Merah each have four roads requiring work, while Machang, Tumpat, and Pasir Puteh have two roads each.

 <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21011/16618423/road-damage-850x638.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618423" alt="road-damage-850x638.jpeg"> 

Roads in Pasir Mas and Bachok also made the list.Nik Badlihisham said the Kelantan JKR will consult further with the Ministry of Works on the maintenance schedule and the budget needed to carry out the repairs.

The Kelantan JKR has identified 29 federal roads across nine districts that need urgent repairs.

Kelantan Flags 29 Federal Roads For Urgent Repairs

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21010/16618403/download---2025-11-17T111703.469-(1).jpeg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618403" alt="download---2025-11-17T111703.469-(1).jpeg">


<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/malaysiasingapore-ink-additional-agreement-for-rts-link" target="_blank" style="">The Johor-Singapore RTS Link </a>recorded a major milestone on Dec 26 when its first train successfully completed a dynamic test run on the mainline.
According to RTS Operations (RTSO),<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/rts-link-first-train-arrives-in-johor-testing-kicks-off-at-wadi-hana-depot" target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;"> the test train started from the Wadi Hana Depot in Johor Bahru, passed Bukit Chagar Station, travelled along the elevated tracks</a>, reached the Malaysia-Singapore border, and then made its way back safely. "It was the first time a train covered the full route", the firm said.This wasn’t a high-speed run yet. It’s the beginning of a long testing phase. For now, trains will move at low speeds, with speeds slowly increased over time once safety checks are cleared. <span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">


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<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">"Safety remains the top priority as testing continues in the coming months," it added. 
Engineers from both countries were on site to witness the run, including teams from RTS Operations, MRT Corp, Singapore’s LTA, and several project partners. "Before the train ever touched the mainline, the team had already completed key checks, such as making sure the tracks were clear, onboard systems were working properly, and power supply was ready," RTSO stated.


<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21010/16618404/IMG_1023-e1761893934783-1068x602-(1).jpeg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618404" alt="IMG_1023-e1761893934783-1068x602-(1).jpeg"> 

Once operational, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/johor-regent-flags-traffic-concerns-ahead-of-rts-link-launch" target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">the RTS Link will connect Bukit Chagar in Johor Bahru directly to Woodlands North in Singapore.</a> The journey is expected to take around five minutes, which should help reduce daily congestion at the Causeway by moving more commuters from cars and buses to rail.The project, which was revived in 2020 after earlier delays, is currently expected to start by Dec 2026. Each train can carry over 600 passengers, with the system designed to handle up to 10,000 passengers per hour per direction during peak times.

The RTS Link completes its first train test run from Wadi Hana Depot through Bukit Chagar to the Malaysia-Singapore border.

Johor-Singapore RTS Completes First Test Run from Wadi Hana To Border

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21009/16618180/conversions/web_TA_CariCarz_Proton-e.MAS-5_First-Drive_EXT_-1-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618180" alt="web_TA_CariCarz_Proton-e.MAS-5_First-Drive_EXT_-1.jpg"> Malaysia’s total industry volume (TIV) is expected to slip by 2% year-on-year to 774,000 units in 2026, from an estimated 790,000 units in 2025, according to CIMB Securities. The brokerage attributes the softer outlook to rising average selling prices and ongoing policy uncertainty.That said, demand for national brands such as Proton and Perodua is expected to hold up. CIMB Securities noted that steady first-time buyer demand, the mass-market positioning of both brands, and continued RON95 fuel subsidies under the BUDI95 programme should <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/maa-2026-ckd-evs-will-win-hybrids-will-grow-ice-isnt-dead-yet" target="_blank">help cushion the slowdown</a>. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21009/16618181/conversions/web_TA_CariCarz_2026-Perodua-QV-E_Preview_SIC_-30-(1)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618181" alt="web_TA_CariCarz_2026-Perodua-QV-E_Preview_SIC_-30-(1).jpg"> Chinese automakers are also set to deepen their presence in the local market, adding further pressure on Japanese brands. CIMB Securities said aggressive pricing by Chinese players is likely to remain a key lever as they push for greater market share.One of the main headwinds flagged by the brokerage is the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/malaysian-ev-market-buzzing-ahead-of-year-end-tax-changes" target="_blank">upcoming tax for fully imported electric vehicles (CBU EVs)</a>. CIMB Securities expects CBU EVs to face an additional 30% import duty and a 10% excise duty from Jan 2026, once current exemptions come to an end. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21009/16618182/conversions/REZA-CKD-(2)-full_normal-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618182" alt="REZA-CKD-(2)-full_normal.jpg"> However, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/maa-evs-in-by-dec-28-keep-tax-exemptions" target="_blank">EVs that enter Malaysia before Dec 28, 2025 will continue to enjoy import and excise duty exemptions</a>, with eligibility determined by the vehicle’s entry date rather than delivery to customers.&nbsp;CIMB Securities believes this will largely favour Chinese EV brands such as BYD, Zeekr and XPeng, helping to support non-national vehicle demand in the first half of 2026. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21009/16618183/conversions/web_MBA_CariCarz_2025-Xpeng-G6-Facelift-Launch_-2-(1)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618183" alt="web_MBA_CariCarz_2025-Xpeng-G6-Facelift-Launch_-2-(1).jpg"> In contrast, locally assembled (CKD) EVs will continue to benefit from tax exemptions until 2027. Against this backdrop, CIMB Securities expects national brands to gain further ground in the EV space from 2026 onwards, especially following the recent launch of Proton’s e.MAS 5 and Perodua’s QV-E.EVs accounted for 4.1% of new vehicle sales in the first nine months of 2025, up from 2.4% a year earlier. Combined EV and hybrid sales jumped 45% year-on-year to 47,783 units, making up 8.2% of total industry volume during the period. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21009/16618184/conversions/MAA-EV-Incentive-Budget-2026-Caricarz-(7)-full_normal-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16618184" alt="MAA-EV-Incentive-Budget-2026-Caricarz-(7)-full_normal.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21009/16618185/conversions/MAA-EV-Incentive-Budget-2026-Caricarz-(4)-full_normal-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16618185" alt="MAA-EV-Incentive-Budget-2026-Caricarz-(4)-full_normal.jpg"> Separately, CIMB Securities said the Ministry of Finance has informed the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) that the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/mof-extends-omv-relief-ckd-vehicle-prices-safe-until-june-2026" target="_blank">revision to the open market value (OMV) calculation</a> methodology has been pushed back by six months to July 2026, from the original Jan 2026 timeline.The brokerage views the deferment as short-term relief for the industry, particularly for manufacturers with greater exposure to local assembly, including Japanese and European brands. Source: <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.bharian.com.my/bisnes/auto/2025/12/1490538/jualan-kenderaan-dijangka-susut-kepada-774000-unit-pada-2026" target="_blank">Berita Harian</a>

CIMB Securities predicts auto TIV will fall 2% in 2026, driven by higher CBU EV taxes and higher vehicle prices.

Higher CBU EV Taxes, Higher Prices: Auto TIV to Fall 2% in 2026

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21008/16618104/conversions/Photo-1---PROTON-wrapped-up-the-Proton-BCSC-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618104" alt="Photo-1---PROTON-wrapped-up-the-Proton-BCSC.JPG"> Proton has wrapped up the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/09/proton-business-case-study-challenge-2024-draws-300-university-students" target="_blank">Proton Business Case Study Challenge 2025</a>, with Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) taking top honours at the grand finale in Putrajaya. Team WOLC from UUM beat 41 other teams from 25 public and private universities nationwide, walking away with RM8,000.Launched in mid-Nov, the competition asked students to tackle a very real question facing the carmaker today: how Proton can manage Malaysia’s shift from internal combustion engines (ICE) to electric vehicles (EV) without losing ground in either space. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21008/16618105/conversions/Photo-4---Team-WOLC-from-UUM-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618105" alt="Photo-4---Team-WOLC-from-UUM.JPG"> The brief reflected the pace of change in the automotive industry, while giving Proton a closer look at the next generation of local talent.Team ANOVA from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) finished as first runner-up, earning RM5,000, followed by Team SAA UMK from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan with RM3,000. UNIMAS student Phibert Goh Jie Hao was named Best Individual Presenter and received RM1,000. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21008/16618106/conversions/Photo-5---Team-ANOVA-from-UNIMAS-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618106" alt="Photo-5---Team-ANOVA-from-UNIMAS.JPG"> Finalists came from six regions across the country, with judging led by senior figures from Proton and the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii).Beyond the prize money, the challenge also doubled as a recruitment platform. All 30 finalists received conditional offers under <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/08/proton-banks-on-youth-through-proton-young-talent-programme" target="_blank">Proton’s Young Talents programme</a>, giving the company a chance to see how students think, collaborate and solve real-world problems. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21008/16618107/conversions/Photo-6---Team-SAA-UMK-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16618107" alt="Photo-6---Team-SAA-UMK.JPG"> First launched in 2023 as a smaller collaboration, the Business Case Study Challenge has since grown into a national-level competition. It now forms part of <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/11/proton-named-top-automotive-employer-at-m100-awards" target="_blank">Proton’s wider talent development efforts</a>, which have brought hundreds of graduates into the company through rotations, mentoring and hands-on projects.Through initiatives like this, Proton continues to build its talent pipeline while positioning itself as a place where young graduates can grow alongside Malaysia’s evolving automotive industry.

Proton Business Challenge 2025 challenged students to step into Proton’s shoes and navigate the EV - ICE balancing act.

UUM Tops Proton Business Case Study Challenge 2025

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/mediatemp/1/16616875/conversions/Mercedes-S-Class-Level-4-Self-Driving-Robotaxis-Debut-In-Abu-Dhabi-Mercedes-Benz-launches-Level-4-self-driving-S-Class-robotaxis-in-Abu-Dhabi-partnering-with-Chinese-software-firm-Momenta-(58)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16616875" alt="Mercedes-S-Class-Level-4-Self-Driving-Robotaxis-Debut-In-Abu-Dhabi-Mercedes-Benz-launches-Level-4-self-driving-S-Class-robotaxis-in-Abu-Dhabi-partnering-with-Chinese-software-firm-Momenta-(58).png"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">


If you’re planning to head to Bukit Bintang in early Jan, take note as Kuala Lumpur’s busiest shopping street will be fully closed on two nights for a major lighting event.
Jalan Bukit Bintang will shut down in stages on Jan 1 for a rehearsal and again on Jan 3 for the official launch of the “I Lite U” Festival 2026 Lighting Programme. According to Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief, Assistant Commissioner Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa, both closures will cover the stretch from Pavilion Kuala Lumpur to the Federal Hotel.

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/mediatemp/1/16616876/conversions/Mercedes-S-Class-Level-4-Self-Driving-Robotaxis-Debut-In-Abu-Dhabi-Mercedes-Benz-launches-Level-4-self-driving-S-Class-robotaxis-in-Abu-Dhabi-partnering-with-Chinese-software-firm-Momenta-(57)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16616876" alt="Mercedes-S-Class-Level-4-Self-Driving-Robotaxis-Debut-In-Abu-Dhabi-Mercedes-Benz-launches-Level-4-self-driving-S-Class-robotaxis-in-Abu-Dhabi-partnering-with-Chinese-software-firm-Momenta-(57).png"> <span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">
The rehearsal on Jan 1 will start from 6PM onwards, while the main event on Jan 3 will run from 7.30PM to 10PM , with full road closures during those periods.
The closures will be managed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), and motorists are advised to plan their trips early, expect diversions, and follow traffic instructions in the area to avoid unnecessary delays.

Jalan Bukit Bintang will be fully closed from 6PM on Jan 1 and from 7.30PM to 10PM on Jan 3 for the “I Lite U” Festival.

Bukit Bintang To Close Jan 1 & 3 For “I Lite U” Festival

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/mediatemp/1/16614732/conversions/Mercedes-S-Class-Level-4-Self-Driving-Robotaxis-Debut-In-Abu-Dhabi-Mercedes-Benz-launches-Level-4-self-driving-S-Class-robotaxis-in-Abu-Dhabi-partnering-with-Chinese-software-firm-Momenta-(54)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16614732" alt="Mercedes-S-Class-Level-4-Self-Driving-Robotaxis-Debut-In-Abu-Dhabi-Mercedes-Benz-launches-Level-4-self-driving-S-Class-robotaxis-in-Abu-Dhabi-partnering-with-Chinese-software-firm-Momenta-(54).png">


A 42-year-old man was arrested in Gemencheh, Negeri Sembilan, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/unpaid-summonses-wont-affect-budi95-subsidy-mot" target="_blank" style="">after allegedly using another person’s MyKad to claim the BUDI95 petrol subsidy.&nbsp;</a>
The arrest came after the MyKad owner discovered the subsidy had been claimed without their knowledge.According to Badrul Hisham Alias, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/no-cash-rebates-for-evs-under-budi95" target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">director-general of the National Registration Department (JPN)</a>, the man was caught during an investigation and taken into custody at a house in Kampung Baru, Sungai Lerek around noon yesterday.&nbsp;

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20997/16614754/Budi95-RON95-Tested-Caricarz-(15)2-full_normal-(2)-(1).jpg" data-media-id="16614754" alt="Budi95-RON95-Tested-Caricarz-(15)2-full_normal-(2)-(1).jpg" style="width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20997/16614755/MyKad-Licence-Budi95-issues-(1)-full_normal-(3)-(1)-(1)-(1).jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16614755" alt="MyKad-Licence-Budi95-issues-(1)-full_normal-(3)-(1)-(1)-(1).jpg"> 

"The case is being investigated under the National Registration Regulations 1990, which prohibits the possession and use of someone else’s identity card for illegal purposes"Prosecution will follow once the investigation is complete," he said.The Ministry of Finance (MOF) has been clear that using someone else’s MyKad to purchase subsidised RON 95 petrol through the Budi Madani RON 95 (BUDI95) programme is not allowed.
&nbsp;<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20997/16614756/web_TA_CariCarz_Petronas_Ron95_Subsidy_Budi95_-5-full-(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16614756" alt="web_TA_CariCarz_Petronas_Ron95_Subsidy_Budi95_-5-full-(1).jpg"> 

While family members can each use their own MyKad to fill up the same vehicle, sharing your MyKad with another person crosses the line and is considered an offence under the National Registration Act 1959 and its regulations.

A man was arrested for using someone else’s MyKad to claim the BUDI95 petrol subsidy without the owner’s knowledge.

Man Arrested For Using Someone Else’s MyKad To Claim BUDI95

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20994/16614048/conversions/MAA-EV-Incentive-Budget-2026-Caricarz-(2)-full_normal-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16614048" alt="MAA-EV-Incentive-Budget-2026-Caricarz-(2)-full_normal.jpg"> 2025 has been a year of recalibration for Malaysia’s automotive sector, marked by a slow Q3 followed by an aggressive rebound driven by promotions stretching from Oct into year-end.According to <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/10/maa-longer-bev-incentives-hybrid-relief-on-budget-2026-wish-list" target="_blank">Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA)</a> president Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain, carmakers pushed hard to unlock pent-up demand amid policy uncertainty, while <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/malaysian-ev-market-buzzing-ahead-of-year-end-tax-changes" target="_blank">EV buyers were spurred by the looming expiry of tax incentives</a> at year’s end.Speaking on <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.bfm.my/content/podcast/evs-incentives-and-the-future-of-malaysias-auto-sector" target="_blank">BFM</a>, Mohd Shamsor noted that the late-year EV rush was largely driven by perceptions around the Dec 31 deadline. However, MAA has since clarified that for fully imported (CBU) EVs to qualify for the current tax exemption, vehicles only need to <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/maa-evs-in-by-dec-28-keep-tax-exemptions" target="_blank">enter Malaysia by Dec 28, not be registered</a>. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20994/16614049/conversions/MAA-Oct-2025-Caricarz-(1)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16614049" alt="MAA-Oct-2025-Caricarz-(1).jpg"> This means buyers need not rush registrations, easing some year-end pressure.The government, meanwhile, is actively engaging MAA and carmakers on a <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/mof-extends-omv-relief-ckd-vehicle-prices-safe-until-june-2026" target="_blank">revised excise duty framework, now delayed until June 2026</a>, with discussions focused on fair cost calculations across different business models.The aim, Mohd Shamsor said, is to minimise sharp price corrections and maintain relative price stability into 2026. Against this backdrop, Budget 2026 is expected to have only a modest impact on overall demand, with measures like a potential scrappage scheme likely to benefit national makes (Proton and Perodua) more than the wider market. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20994/16614050/conversions/Proton-eMAS5-Ownership-Cost-Caricarz-(13)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16614050" alt="Proton-eMAS5-Ownership-Cost-Caricarz-(13).jpg"> EV adoption still has significant headroom. As of Oct, Malaysia’s EV penetration still trails Thailand and Indonesia by around 4%, while EVs made up just 5.5% of total industry volume (TIV) in Sept and about 8–9% when including xEVs.Beyond 2025, buyers set on going electric are likely to gravitate <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/11/chery-malaysia-launches-its-first-ckd-ev-line-for-the-omoda-e5" target="_blank">towards CKD offerings</a>, which remain price-competitive, while those prioritising driving range will continue to favour the growing number of hybrid offerings.&nbsp; <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20994/16614051/conversions/MAA-Aug-2025-(5)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16614051" alt="MAA-Aug-2025-(5).jpg"> More cost-sensitive consumers are expected to stick with ICE models given the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/07/ron95-at-rm199-for-malaysians-rm250-for-foreigners-including-sporeans" target="_blank">low RON95 fuel price and ample 300-litre monthly allowance</a>. At the same time, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/03/more-dcfcs-needed-on-highways-miti-to-seek-concession-company-assistance" target="_blank">EV range anxiety remains a perception issue</a> that requires greater public awareness and education.Extending <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/ckd-excise-duty-revision-govt-studying-measures-to-ease-impact" target="_blank">CKD EV incentives beyond 2027</a> would also help attract further investment and expand local offerings. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20994/16614068/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Perodua-Traz-Preview-51-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16614068" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Perodua-Traz-Preview-51.jpg"> Looking ahead, Mohd Shamsor expects 2026 to deliver steady but cautious growth rather than a sharp demand spike, supported by new model launches from both national and non-national brands and continued outlet expansion to offer better service to buyers. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20994/16614058/conversions/MAA-Oct-2025-Caricarz-(2)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16614058" alt="MAA-Oct-2025-Caricarz-(2).jpg"> Risks remain, including global economic uncertainty, trade tensions and semiconductor disruptions, reinforcing the need to deepen <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/09/govt-will-focus-on-developing-ev-sector-miti" target="_blank">Malaysia’s EV talent pool</a>, strengthen <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/05/chery-mida-initiative-drives-growth-in-local-auto-supply-chain" target="_blank">Tier-1 supplier capabilities</a>, boost <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/proton-saga-heading-to-neighbouring-philippines-in-2026-as-a-geely-offering" target="_blank">exports to ASEAN</a> and accelerate <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/07/reza-key-to-competitive-auto-parts-price-reliant-on-export-volume" target="_blank">automation and Industry 4.0 adoption</a>.From <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/" target="_blank">Carz.com.my’s</a> perspective, it is also notable that with the year drawing to a close, there has still been no official announcement on a new EV incentive to replace the current tax holiday.This is despite earlier assurances from former Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, who confirmed that <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/10/govt-exploring-fresh-measures-to-support-ev-growth-post-2025" target="_blank">MITI and the Ministry of Finance are still in discussions on fresh measures to sustain EV adoption</a> once CBU EV excise duty exemptions expire.<div style="text-align: justify;"> </div>

MAA expects buyer behaviour to diverge in 2026 as cost, range and fuel prices shape demands for EV, hybrid and ICE.

MAA 2026: CKD EVs Will Win, Hybrids Will Grow & ICE Isn’t Dead Yet

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20990/16613804/conversions/605732927_1297749329054213_7549673251158694610_n-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16613804" alt="605732927_1297749329054213_7549673251158694610_n.jpg"> <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/rapid-kl-travel-pass-prices-increase-from-jan-1-2026" target="_blank">Rapid KL</a> will extend operating hours across its rail network, Sunway BRT, selected bus routes and Rapid KL On-Demand (ROD) services in conjunction with New Year’s Eve 2026 celebrations on Wednesday, Dec 31, 2025.The extended operations are meant to support late-night travel after celebrations end, particularly from key city areas, while helping commuters get home in a safer and more orderly manner. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20990/16613805/conversions/587814303_18543530545061421_6109565320511853506_n-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16613805" alt="587814303_18543530545061421_6109565320511853506_n.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20990/16613806/conversions/606592539_18543530554061421_2398968274262526436_n-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16613806" alt="606592539_18543530554061421_2398968274262526436_n.jpg"> Rail services will operate until 2am on Jan 1, 2026, involving 20 stations across several major lines. On the Kelana Jaya Line, these include Pasar Seni, Masjid Jamek, KLCC, Ampang Park, Kampung Baru and USJ 7. The Ampang and Sri Petaling lines will continue serving Hang Tuah, Masjid Jamek and Maluri during the extended period.The extension also covers the Monorail stations at Bukit Bintang and Hang Tuah, selected Kajang Line stations such as Pasar Seni, Tun Razak Exchange, Bukit Bintang, Maluri, Mutiara Damansara and Cochrane, as well as Putrajaya Line stations at Tun Razak Exchange, Persiaran KLCC and Ampang Park. Other stations will end services as usual, although passengers will still be allowed to exit stations to continue their journeys. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20990/16613807/conversions/607200792_18543530563061421_7805941614742268392_n-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16613807" alt="607200792_18543530563061421_7805941614742268392_n.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20990/16613808/conversions/606404314_18543530572061421_1689437669275552084_n-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16613808" alt="606404314_18543530572061421_1689437669275552084_n.jpg"> <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/04/brt-sunway-station-realigned-for-under-armour-dual-run-on-april-27" target="_blank">Sunway BRT services</a> will run later, until 2.30am, involving seven stations along the corridor, including Sunway–Setia Jaya, Mentari, Sunway Lagoon, SunMed, SunU-Monash, South Quay and USJ 7.Train frequencies across all rail lines will be increased from 7.30pm on Dec 31 until 2am, a move aimed at easing platform congestion and reducing waiting times as crowds disperse after midnight. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20990/16613809/conversions/Extension-2026-Rail-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16613809" alt="Extension-2026-Rail.png"> <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/03/rapid-bus-introduces-7-new-on-demand-routes-starting-march-10" target="_blank">Bus services will also be extended</a>, with 21 selected main and feeder routes operating until 2.30am. These routes serve major hubs and surrounding residential areas such as Pasar Seni, Lebuh Ampang, Puchong, Sri Manja, Pandan Indah, Kajang, Subang, Sungai Buloh, Damansara, Putrajaya and Cyberjaya.<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/07/rapid-kl-expands-on-demand-van-service-to-12-new-areas-in-selangor" target="_blank">Rapid KL On-Demand</a> will operate until 2.30am across nine selected zones. Users are advised to make bookings in advance via the Rapid On-Demand app due to expected high demand. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/20990/16613810/conversions/Extension-2026-Bas-2-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16613810" alt="Extension-2026-Bas-2.png"> More than 3,000 Rapid KL frontline staff, including auxiliary police and operations personnel, will be deployed throughout the night to manage passenger flow and maintain safety.Commuters are encouraged to use <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/06/my50-pass-coming-to-touch-n-go-ewallet-starting-july-1" target="_blank">Touch ‘n Go cards</a> for smoother entry and exit, and to ensure sufficient balance before travelling. Rapid KL is also urging the public to use public transport during New Year’s Eve celebrations to help ease traffic congestion in busy areas.<div style="text-align: justify;"> </div>

Rapid KL extends rail, bus and ROD services across key routes to support New Year’s EVE post-celebration travel.

Bukit Bintang To Close Jan 1 & 3 For “I Lite U” Festival

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