Malaysia’s first locally developed EV by Perodua will launch end of this month, designated as national agenda with focus on affordability and sustainability
RAWANG: Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) will launch its first electric vehicle (EV) designed to meet national policy objectives at the end of this month, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said the Malaysian-developed EV would be designated as a national agenda, involving coordinated participation from state governments.
He made the remarks while addressing Perodua staff and engineers during his visit to the company’s manufacturing facility yesterday.
“It is more pleasant to be here in Perodua than to be answering questions in Parliament.
“Within one or two days, I will set the exact date. At the end of this month, we will launch this model and I will instruct state governments that this second launch be made a major national agenda.”
Anwar said he did not expect gratitude from the opposition.
“I do not expect the opposition to thank us. They will not. We do this because it is our responsibility.
“This is not only about launching a car. It is about governance, social responsibility and environmental protection. These must move together.”
He described the EV as meeting sustainability and affordability goals while incorporating modern engineering features.
The prime minister said the model aligns with the government’s broader policy framework.
“It fulfils the Madani concept because it is affordable. Production must meet national needs and support healthier economic growth.”
Anwar said recent diplomatic engagements have reflected growing international confidence in Malaysia’s direction.
“In a bilateral meeting, when a minister mentioned procedures, the leader immediately said, ‘I want Malaysia to be given priority.’
“This shows Malaysia is seen as serious and prepared. In a week or two, I will go to Brazil and South Africa. There are discussions for opportunities involving Petronas and other sectors.
“This is how Malaysia enters global markets, through trust and readiness.”
Anwar also highlighted the contribution of Malaysian workers in developing the EV model.
“This is a product of our young people, including many Bumiputera engineers.
“I saw people here from Penang, Perak, Kelantan, Sabah and Sarawak. You work as a team. If there is discipline and good management, there is nothing we cannot do.
“It shows discipline, good management and our capability to produce something advanced and affordable.”
He linked the EV rollout to wider industrial transformation.
“We are entering new technological phases such as digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
“This requires reskilling, apprenticeships and training. That responsibility is shared between government and industry.”
Anwar said the EV rollout will not be treated as a one-off announcement but as part of a long-term shift in Malaysia’s manufacturing capability.
“We want production that meets national needs and strengthens long-term economic growth.”
