The Malaysian government has announced its focus on developing the electric vehicle (EV) sector under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030). The government aims to review and implement policies related to EVs on a regular basis to support the growth of the sector.
Deputy investment, trade, and industry minister, Liew Chin Tong, stated that a national EV steering committee (NEVSC) meeting will be held soon to discuss the development of the EV sector. This announcement came in response to a query raised by Puah Wee Tse, a member of parliament, who highlighted the issue of affordability of EVs for most Malaysians.
Alongside the focus on policy development, the government is also investing in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs for EVs. These programs are expected to begin in early 2024, with the aim of developing local talent in EV technology. The NEVSC will work towards ensuring the availability of EV programs in higher education centers.
As part of this effort, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia has been appointed as a member of the national electric vehicle task force (NEVTF). The university will be responsible for coordinating research and talent development related to EV technology among local universities.
In addition, the human resource ministry’s skills development department, in collaboration with the industry lead body (ILB), has developed a national skills employment standard for TVET education and training in the EV sector.
The government’s focus on developing the EV sector under NIMP 2030 aims to support the growth of the industry and ensure the availability of skilled talent in EV technology. By investing in education and training programs, the government is taking steps towards making EVs more affordable and accessible for Malaysians.
Sources: Bernama