Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Works (KKR) launched the Design and Installation Guidelines for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Systems in conjunction with the 2026 Senior Officers' Conference (SOC) of the Public Works Department (JKR). Its deputy minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Maslan, stated that this effort supports the green mobility agenda and acts as a strategic initiative in driving JKR's smart reform. This aligns with the government's policy to expand the use of EVs nationwide.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the guidelines are the first of their kind in Malaysia and serve as a comprehensive reference for all parties, including contractors, designers, government agencies, petrol station operators, and individuals wishing to install EV charging facilities. Dr Ahmad Maslan emphasized the lack of specific guidelines until now and highlighted that this book will help ensure installations are made in appropriate locations and comply with specified safety aspects.
He noted that the initiative aims to accelerate the development of EV charging infrastructure, expanding not only at Rest and Service (R and R) areas along highways but also to federal, state, and municipal roads under JKR's supervision. Dr Ahmad Maslan stressed the importance of JKR being proactive as a facilitator in the development of EV charging stations, especially on federal and state roads, to support the transition to more sustainable energy use.
The current scarcity of charging stations is identified as a major factor limiting the increase in EV usage in the country. Recommendations have been made for EV charging stations to be placed not only at R and R highways and petrol stations but also on federal and state roads managed by JKR, including municipal roads. Dr Ahmad Maslan remarked on the necessity of charging stations for the adoption of electric vehicles, such as motorcycles, cars, or buses, as the lack of these facilities hinders their use in Malaysia.
Currently, EV charging facilities are more concentrated on highways operated by concession companies, with limited development on other road networks. Apart from launching the guidelines, SOC 2026 also introduced several other initiatives, including the FlexRevive product "Wrap it Right, Flex It Bright," the Online Mechanical Complaint System (SAMAT), the Malaysia Site Investigation Data Online System (MySIDOS application), and the Road Technical Document.
The 24th edition of the conference, themed 'Driving JKR's Smart Reforms,' underscores JKR's commitment to enhancing professionalism through integrity, innovation, and delivery efficiency. It gathered around 380 senior JKR officers from across Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak.
In addition, Dr Ahmad Maslan addressed the global energy crisis's impact on economic stability, supply chains, and rising costs, underlining the government's vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the well-being of the people. He reaffirmed KKR's commitment to strengthening service delivery capabilities, ensuring meticulous, efficient, and integrity-driven project planning and implementation.
Dr Ahmad Maslan concluded by emphasizing that the ministry prioritizes ensuring the people benefit from every development initiative, guaranteeing smooth project execution, and always attending to the needs of the populace.