In a decisive move to address severe safety concerns, Malaysia has announced that compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles will soon vanish from its roads. The government has set a deadline of July 1, 2025, to completely phase out the sale, registration, and use of CNG-powered vehicles in the country. Citing mounting evidence of safety hazards, Transport Minister Anthony Loke revealed that this policy shift is rooted in the rising risks associated with aging CNG tanks and unauthorized modifications that have led to fatal accidents, including an incident in Bangkok that tragically claimed 23 lives.
Safety remains paramount in the decision, as CNG tanks fitted to Malaysian vehicles mostly date back to an installation boom from 1995 to 2014. These tanks, nearing the end of their 15-year safety lifespan, pose an increasing danger if not replaced. Unfortunately, the prohibitive costs—exceeding RM7,000 for some vehicle owners—often drive individuals to install cheaper but riskier alternatives, such as LPG (cooking gas) cylinders, which cannot handle the pressure levels of standard CNG tanks. Since 2008, multiple incidents, including explosions and fires, have underscored the risks of using these unregulated replacements.
Recognizing the burden on vehicle owners, the government has introduced a transition assistance program. Taxi drivers and dual-fuel vehicle owners will receive vouchers and access to free NGV kit removals, while mono-fuel CNG vehicle owners can receive compensation based on their vehicle’s value. This initiative aims to reduce disruption while ensuring that these high-risk vehicles are safely removed from circulation.
Petronas, Malaysia’s state-owned oil and gas company, will phase out CNG fuel sales by mid-2025, ending nearly three decades of CNG as a fuel option in the country. As the nation pivots towards alternative, safer fuels, Malaysia’s decisive action on CNG highlights its commitment to public safety, aiming to prevent future tragedies and strengthen vehicle safety standards for years to come.
Peoplesmind
