Environmental advocates have called for robust enforcement and policy reform to ensure that the recycling of electric vehicle (EV) batteries in Malaysia becomes an environmentally sustainable endeavour. Central to these efforts is holding both manufacturers and consumers accountable, they said.
Meenakshi Raman, President of Sahabat Alam Malaysia, emphasised the need for manufacturers and importers to be legally obliged to retrieve an equivalent number of batteries to the EVs they sell or bring into the country.
“Failure to comply should result in legal or financial penalties. At the same time, companies that develop longer-lasting or easier-to-recycle batteries should receive tax incentives,” she said.
Raman highlighted the importance of comprehensive regulatory frameworks, adequate enforcement mechanisms, and certified recycling facilities to prevent improper disposal practices that could endanger public health and the environment. Only licensed companies should be permitted to manage used EV batteries, she added.
In support of a more transparent supply chain, she also advocated for the introduction of an EV battery passport system. This initiative would allow for the tracking of key battery data—such as composition, origin, usage history, and recyclability—enabling more effective decisions on reuse, repurposing, or safe dismantling.
“Incentives such as grants or tax breaks should be extended to companies investing in battery recycling technologies or integrating recycled materials into their production processes,” Raman noted. She further recommended support for second-life applications of EV batteries, such as storage solutions for solar energy systems, to maximise battery lifespan and minimise waste.
Randolph Jeremiah, Vice-President of the Environmental Protection Society of Malaysia, echoed these sentiments, stressing that manufacturers must be legally mandated to manage the full lifecycle of their products.
“Producers should establish recycling facilities either locally or in their country of origin, or partner with specialised local recyclers. Additional tax benefits could be provided to those investing in domestic recycling infrastructure, which in turn strengthens Malaysia’s circular economy,” he said.
Jeremiah also proposed making it a legal requirement for consumers to return used batteries to designated collection points, potentially at a nominal cost. This would create a closed-loop system where both environmental and financial responsibility is distributed between stakeholders.
“This model supports long-term environmental sustainability while mitigating risks associated with insufficient recycling infrastructure,” he added.
Echoing the need for coordinated oversight, EcoKnights President Amlir Ayat called for the establishment of a dedicated task force to monitor the EV battery disposal process, particularly for non-recyclable components.
“Policies must be clear and rigorously enforced to prevent mismanagement of hazardous materials under the pretext of recycling. Securing meaningful commitment from manufacturers and consumers is critical,” he said. He also urged the relevant ministry to continue soliciting public input to shape comprehensive policy responses.
As Malaysia advances its transition to electric mobility, the alignment of regulatory frameworks, industry practices, and consumer behaviours will be key to ensuring environmental integrity and long-term sustainability in EV battery management.
-The Star
