KUCHING: Sarawak Minister for Transport, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin has called on all electric vehicle (EV) dealers and owners in the state to ensure that their number plates comply with the specifications under the Road Transport Department’s (JPJ) ePlate initiative, even though the policy is currently not mandatory.

This reminder follows a recent case where an EV owner received a notice from JPJ regarding non-compliance with ePlate specifications, which later drew public concern.

According to a clarification from JPJ Sarawak, the notice was issued as part of advisory enforcement.

The owner subsequently filed a complaint and upon investigation, JPJ confirmed that the number plate in question complied with the approved specifications, and the case was closed.

Dato Sri Lee said that while the ePlate policy is a federal initiative and currently applies only to cars, it remains in a voluntary phase. Enforcement during this period is advisory in nature, and no compound is imposed.

“We appreciate JPJ’s responsiveness in reviewing the case and providing clarification. This incident highlights the importance of public awareness and understanding of new initiatives,” he said on Friday.

According to Dato Sri Lee, the Sarawak Ministry of Transport, though not the implementing agency, plays a supporting and communicative role in helping ensure that the public and vehicle industry stakeholders receive timely and accurate information.

“Although not yet compulsory, all EV owners are strongly encouraged to adopt the JPJ ePlate to align with national efforts toward better enforcement, standardisation, and play an important role in supporting road safety and emergency response operations,” he said.

He added that in the case of EVs, fire and rescue operations carried out by Bomba require different handling protocols due to the presence of high-voltage battery systems.

“When emergency services can quickly recognise that a vehicle is electric, they are able to respond more effectively and safely using the appropriate rescue techniques,” he explained.

He stated that green mobility is not only a global trend but a key pillar of Sarawak’s Post Covid Development Strategy to become a developed and sustainable region.

Dato Sri Lee concluded by calling on the public and private sectors to work hand in hand to embrace cleaner, more sustainable transport options that will benefit current and future generations. -UKASnews