ST John Ambulance of Malaysia (SJAM) Penang has rolled out the country’s first electric vehicle (EV) ambulance. The remarkable milestone was celebrated at its annual parade, officiated by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib.
The EV ambulance, fully sponsored by Yayasan Bumiputra Pulau Pinang, was unveiled alongside recognition of long-serving members, award presentations, and demonstrations by specialised units during the parade.
SJAM Malaysia Commander-in-Chief Datuk Lai See Ming described the launch of Malaysia’s first EV ambulance as a national milestone for both Penang and the country.
“Penang has made history with the launch of Malaysia’s first EV ambulance, a feat not only for St John but also for the country,” he said.
He also announced that SJAM’s ambulance service contract with the Ministry of Health had been renewed for 10 key locations nationwide.
“In 2024 alone, our crews responded to 20,764 cases,” he said.
Lai added that more than 200 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) have been installed nationwide with donors’ support, along with free CPR and AED awareness programmes across Malaysia.
He praised the leadership of SJAM Penang State president Datuk Seri Syed Mohamad Syed Murtaza and SJAM Penang State commander Datuk Seri Dr Yee Thiam Sun.
“Under their leadership, SJAM Penang has continued to shine at state and national levels,” he said.
Syed Mohamad said the EV ambulance reflects both technological advancement and environmental responsibility.
“This first EV ambulance not only advances technology in emergency services but also demonstrates our commitment to environmental sustainability,” he said.
He congratulated Tun Ramli on his appointment as State Patron of SJAM Penang and on receiving the Darjah Setia Utama award, expressing confidence that his leadership would raise SJAM Penang to greater excellence.
“This programme is vital in ensuring the effectiveness of SJAM’s services remains at the highest level. With strong cooperation, we can further strengthen and advance St. John Ambulance in Penang,” he said.
Dr Yee said the EV ambulance was not only a new addition to the fleet but also a step forward in sustainability in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
He also highlighted the work of specialised units such as the Cycle Response Unit and Radio Signal Unit, as well as SJAM Penang’s CPR and AED awareness programmes, which are offered free to the public.
Dr Yee noted that 13 Penang cadets received the prestigious Grand Prior Badge this year and that Penang retained its championship title at the 2025 National Day Parade.
The annual parade also honoured long-serving members, including Tan Hai Keat, who was recognised for 50 years of service, Aliena Cheah for 45 years, and Koay Seng Kie for 35 years.
Also present were Tun Ramli’s consort, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah, state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi and Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian