Anthony Loke: NGV Vehicles To Be Banned From Roads Beginning 1 July 2025
He said there have been six recorded accidents involving NGVs that have caused explosions in the past.
All natural gas vehicles (NGVs) will no longer be allowed on the road or be registered effective 1 July next year, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke
According to the New Straits Times, Loke said the decision was made by the cabinet on 2 October following safety concerns over their use.
He said there have been six recorded accidents involving NGVs, where car owners modified their vehicles to use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders, which have caused explosions in the past.
He also cited a recent incident that occurred in Bangkok, Thailand on 1 October, where a school bus caught fire, claiming the lives of 25 students and teachers. He said the explosion is believed to have been caused by an illegally installed NGV cylinder.
Image via Asyraf Hamzah/New Straits Times
Loke added that the ban will only affect about 44,383 NGVs that currently remain on the road, representing just 0.2% of the nation's motor vehicles, excluding motorcycles
He also highlighted that many NGVs are dual-fuel operated, with modifications installed between 1995 and 2014, and many of these NGV tanks are nearing the end of their lifespan.
"NGV tanks have a safe usage period of around 15 years and if not replaced, they become unsafe to use and may fail to function at any time, posing risks of injury, death and significant property damage," he said.
According to Loke, PETRONAS will also begin halting natural gas sales in stages starting from the same date.
Image via Harian Metro
To support the transition, the minister announced a set of assistance programmes for three eligible target groups of NGV owners
According to Malay Mail, NGV-powered taxi drivers registered with the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) will be eligible for a one-off RM3,000 e-voucher redeemable through Petronas's Setel mobile app.
Dual-fuel vehicle owners registered with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) can have their NGV kits removed for free at designated workshops.
Meanwhile, pure NGV owners who bring their vehicles to authorised facilities for disposal and de-registration will be eligible for a one-time payment based on the vehicle's appraisal.
Applications for these packages can be made via the programme's website.
The school bus accident in Thailand resulted in the deaths of 22 students and three teachers:
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