PUTRAJAYA, April 12 — Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz said today that the update to the National Automotive Policy (NAP) needs more time to be scrutinised, as engagement sessions with stakeholders are still ongoing.

The investment, trade and industry minister said the plan is to ensure that Malaysia’s automotive policies are in line with current advancements in science, technology and innovation, and therefore any changes will only be announced when sound ideas are finally in place.

"We’re still taking feedback from stakeholders and industry players as there have been a lot of developments in the automotive industry. We need to give attention to what was in the NAP before this too,” Zafrul said when met here.

"We need to be dynamic and open to making necessary changes so I’ll be discussing with the agencies and ministries so we can review what the industry player brought up regarding technology advancements in the automotive space.

"By doing so, we hope to stay relevant and competitive. So the question of changes in NAP is a bit too soon now. I hope to give you some feedback once we and the relevant agencies have time to review them,” he added.

Observers feel that the NAP formulated in 2020 should be updated so Malaysia can stay abreast with the developments in the automotive industry to stay relevant and competitive in the marketplace.

In addition to NAP 2020, there was also a call for the National Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy to be updated to drive its adoption in Malaysia amid increasing environmental, social and governance calls globally.

"I believe any long-term plans like NAP, 10 years, we need to be open to changes. Discussions and reviews will be made so we can be the best in this region,” Tengku Zafrul added.