PENANG is positioning itself as a model for practical and sustainable electric vehicle (EV) adoption in Malaysia, with a focus that goes beyond mere registration numbers to emphasise reliability, accessibility, and convenience.
Speaking at the grand launch of BYD Mansion Macalister in George Town today, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted the importance of developing an EV ecosystem that addresses everyday needs, particularly for urbanised and high-density areas such as Penang.
“For states like ours, solutions are needed not only along major highways but also within residential areas, commercial centres, and high-density developments, where daily charging convenience matters most,” he said.
Chow noted that based on the latest JPJ registration data, Malaysia recorded more than 20,000 EV registrations in the first four months of 2026, with close to 5,900 registrations in April alone – an increase of more than 100% year-on-year.
“This is encouraging. But as adoption accelerates, expectations will also rise. Today, consumers are not only evaluating the vehicle itself, but the overall ownership experience – whether charging infrastructure is accessible and reliable, whether after-sales support is dependable, and whether sufficient technical expertise exists to support long-term use,” he said.
While Malaysia has made meaningful progress in EV infrastructure with 5,619 charging bays nationwide, including 1,898 DC fast chargers, Chow acknowledged that many users still face challenges with accessibility, connectivity, and waiting times.
He stressed that the EV transition requires more than just statistics: it calls for dependable infrastructure, reliable after-sales support, and a skilled workforce.
Penang welcomes innovative investments that strengthen local capabilities and support long-term economic growth. According to Chow, companies like BYD, which recently opened its flagship showroom on Macalister Road, play a crucial role in shaping a robust EV ecosystem.
“Beyond bringing advanced EV products into the market, BYD can contribute through knowledge transfer, after-sales capability, collaboration with local partners, and talent development,” he said.
The chief minister also highlighted BYD’s ongoing plans in Tanjung Malim, reflecting a broader national trend towards localisation, capability building, and long-term value creation within Malaysia’s EV industry.
He expressed optimism that continued engagement between the government, industry players, developers, and investors would strengthen consumer confidence and create opportunities across the automotive value chain.
Chow congratulated BYD and Sime Motors on the launch of BYD Mansion Macalister, describing it as a symbol of innovation and a shared commitment to advancing Malaysia’s EV industry.
Also present at the opening ceremony were state Local Government and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, BYD Co. Ltd. and BYD Asia Pacific Auto Sales Division general manager Liu Xueliang, Southeast Asia Sime Motors managing director Jeffrey Gan, BYD Sime Motors managing director Adeline Lew, BYD Malaysia managing director Jacob Ma, and Malaysia Retail & Distribution Sime Darby Motors managing director Vi Thim Juan.
Chow praised Liu for being a heritage lover, an innovator in green technology, and an inspiring speaker.
In his speech, Liu said the BYD Mansion Macalister is the third showroom in Penang and the 41st in Malaysia, and expressed his appreciation to all who have supported BYD, which is expected to hit 30,000 sales soon in the country.
Gan highlighted his team’s efforts in restoring the century-old commercial landmark, maintaining its heritage value and preserving its unique architectural charm. The remarkable showroom stands on a 26,994 square feet site, with approximately 9,000 square feet of built-up space.
Chow said he was impressed with the restoration work and even joked that he would like to meet the architect, noting that as George Town is a UNESCO Heritage Site, there is plenty of restoration work ahead – to the delight of everyone present.
The launch event began with a vibrant Malay cultural dance and concluded with the letting off of firecrackers and a lively lion pole dance, followed by the unveiling of two BYD vehicles – the BYD Sealion 7 and BYD Atto 2.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Alissa Thian
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat