electric Rapid buses

by HIDAYATH HISHAM

MALAYSIA is expected to receive its first batch of fully electric Rapid buses in 2026, as part of a long-term transition towards cleaner public transport.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said this marks the beginning of a phased shift away from diesel buses, with the government aiming for full electrification by 2037 under the Low Carbon Mobility Development Plan 2021-2030.

“The arrival of these diesel buses not only adds to our assets but also marks the beginning of the phase-out of diesel bus usage, paving the way for a greener transport system,” he said at the launch of Rapid KL and Rapid Penang’s new Euro 5 diesel buses today.

Loke said a major condition for future bus procurement is that all electric buses must be assembled domestically to support Malaysia’s industrial development and promote technology transfer.

“These buses must be made locally, by our own industry. Even if the technology comes from abroad, they must be assembled within our country.

“This is to ensure we benefit from technology transfer and that local companies gain from this initiative,” he said.

The latest electric bus tender has closed and the appointment of contractors is expected soon.

Delivery is targeted within 12 months of contract finalisation.

In the time being, Malaysia is deploying 310 new Euro 5 diesel buses under the 2025 Bus Replacement Programme. 

The buses, supplied by Higer, are assembled in Johor and will operate in phases across high-demand urban routes in Kuala Lumpur (KL) and Penang.

Meanwhile, Prasarana (M) Bhd group chief operating officer (operations) Amir Hamdan said the new diesel buses remain necessary to support current operations as ageing fleets are phased out.

“These new diesel buses are still needed to support ongoing operations that can no longer be sustained by the older fleet.

“This move will also improve the overall passenger experience,” he said.

Amir said that Rapid Bus will introduce 8.9m buses in the third quarter of 2025 (3Q25), tailored for residential areas with limited access.

He added that Rapid Bus’ groundwork for the introduction of electric buses in 2026 is supported by ongoing efforts to build charging infrastructure, conduct technical training and set up maintenance facilities.

“This initiative is being strengthened through the development of charging facilities. as well as technical and maintenance training, which is currently being actively carried out,” he said.

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