On 9 September 2024, the Malaysian Ministry of Transport and Road Transport Department (JPJ) officially launched a trial phase for a new electronic vehicle registration system called JPJePlate.
This innovative initiative aims to standardise number plate designs across all motor vehicles and enhance road safety.
The JPJePlate system is currently mandatory only for newly registered electric vehicles (EVs) and zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), excluding electric motorcycles. This requirement applies to all ZEVs registered after 9 September 2024.
However, existing EV owners interested in obtaining these special plates can register on the JPJePlate website from 9 November onwards.
At present, registration is limited to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and vehicle distributors. The system may be expanded to other users in future phases.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke explained that this pilot project focuses on EVs to gauge public reception and acceptance. Depending on its success, the government may consider extending the system to all motor vehicles in Malaysia.
The new electronic plates boast several advanced features:
- A Malaysian flag
- Embossed international vehicle registration code (MAL for Malaysia)
- Colour-coded side strip indicating fuel type (e.g., green for fully electric vehicles)
- Holographic strip
- Anti-counterfeiting foil
- Digital signature (QR code)
- Laser-engraved serial number
- Embedded RFID
- Security screws for mounting
Each set of JPJePlates is priced at RM98 and includes front and rear plates, an RFID windscreen sticker, and standard delivery to an authorised installation centre.
The introduction of these electronic plates serves multiple purposes:
- Improving road safety through enhanced visibility, particularly at night
- Preventing vehicle theft and registration fraud
- Facilitating swift law enforcement and emergency response
- Enabling integration with Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) via RFID technology
This new system represents a significant step forward in Malaysia’s automotive sector, potentially paving the way for more advanced and secure vehicle identification methods in the future.
For more information about the JPJePlate system, interested parties can visit the official website at https://jpjeplate.jpj.gov.my.
