{
  "id": 3136650,
  "title": "The long wait for EV chargers [WATCH]",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/24/the-long-wait-for-ev-chargers-watch",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-24T23:00:42.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/08/1518235/long-wait-ev-chargers-watch"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KUALA LUMPUR: The growing number of electric vehicle (EV) owners in Malaysia is facing a significant challenge due to the lack of public charging points nationwide, causing both range anxiety and waiting anxiety. As of July 31, there are 122,286 EVs on the roads, but only 6,916 public chargers, far behind the government's target of 30,000 public chargers by 2030. Currently, there are approximately 2,000 direct current (DC) fast chargers and around 4,000 alternating current (AC) chargers spread across the country.\n\nOne of the main issues lies along the north-south highway, where only 112 EV charging points have been installed, with a target of 350 by 2028. Electric Vehicle Charging Industry Association president Lee Yuen How emphasized the need for more substations at highway Rest and Recreation (R&R) areas and lay-bys to accommodate the rapid deployment of EV chargers.\n\nLee also highlighted the urgent need for standardization of EV charger guidelines and submission procedures across all local councils. JomCharge, an EV charging network provider, has expanded its DC charging network to on-street parking areas, shopping malls, and hotels, catering to those without charging facilities at home. The average price for AC chargers is 90 cents to RM1 per kWh, while DC chargers cost approximately RM1.30 to RM1.50 per kWh.\n\nWhile EV ownership is generally more affordable than running a petrol-powered vehicle, particularly for owners who can charge at home or work, the availability of charging facilities remains a concern, especially during peak periods like school holidays and festive seasons. EV owners like Husain Jahit and Chua expressed the need for more charging points, particularly outside major urban areas, to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience for EV owners.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Ever heard of range anxiety or waiting anxiety?",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}