With electric vehicles (EVs) gaining traction across Malaysia, the government is preparing for a major challenge—managing nearly 900,000 depleted lithium-ion batteries by 2050. Outgoing Environment Minister Nik Nazmi revealed that plans are underway to introduce an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policy, making EV makers accountable for battery recycling. As EV registrations surge—from just 274 units in 2021 to over 21,000 last year—the number of used batteries is expected to spike. Recycling is seen as the best solution to avoid environmental harm and reduce the need for mining. Malaysia joins countries like China, the EU, and the US in tackling this issue as part of a growing global green push.
