THIS article explores strategies to transform Malaysia from a car-dependent nation to a sustainable and prosperous people-centric one. The government must demonstrate the political will to achieve this transformation through four key policy reforms.

Firstly, fuel subsidies should be gradually phased out. While targeting diesel subsidies and rationalising RON95 subsidies are commendable efforts, they highlight a deeper issue - the overreliance on car ownership among low-income Malaysians.

Instead of continuously subsidising fuel, the nation should invest in urban planning, public transportation and walking infrastructure. We can then reduce car dependency and eventually eliminate fuel subsidies without disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups.

Secondly, the National Automotive Policy should aim for a balanced transportation system. Instead of promoting car ownership by boosting local car sales, the government should develop a transport ecosystem that includes walking, cycling, and public transit.

The annual Hari Raya exodus highlights the negative impacts of car dependency, such as extreme traffic congestion, safety risks, and environmental damage.

The skyrocketing demand for KTM tickets during this period shows the public’s preference for public transport when available.

Thirdly, restricting access to car loans in Malaysia can play a crucial role in curbing car ownership and shifting the nation towards a less car-centric model.

By tightening lending criteria and increasing interest rates, the financial responsibility of car ownership would rise. This would discourage impulsive purchases and promote careful consideration of alternative transportation options.

Fourthly, we must reduce car-centric infrastructures. Highways, wide roads, and huge carparks in urban areas like the Klang Valley should be reduced.

Transforming highways into boulevards with crosswalks, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, dedicated bus lanes, and fewer car lanes will encourage a shift away from cars.

People will be more likely to choose a bus for commutes or opt for walking or cycling for short trips if these options are safe, quick and convenient. A diverse transportation network is essential to reduce car dependency.

The benefits of reducing car dependency

These four policy reforms will devolve the nation’s car-centric culture. By removing subsidies and incentives for car ownership, and fostering a robust and appealing walking, cycling and public transportation network, car dependent suburbs will lose their appeal, thereby curbing the problem of urban sprawl.

The government must also strictly enforce an urban growth boundary, confining development to urban areas. The focus should instead turn inward to transit-oriented development along public transportation routes.

This approach will foster pedestrian-friendly tamans with easy access to public transport, shops, schools, and recreation. Consequently, proximity to public transit will become the key selling point for real estate, surpassing the long-standing preference for highway access.

By increasing residential density within local communities, local councils can boost tax revenue, enabling greater investment in essential services. This concentrated funding can effectively address infrastructure problems often overlooked in sprawling suburbs.

Efficient public transportation thrives in densely populated areas. Increased residential proximity to public transit stations will boost ridership, demanding improved service quality and frequency from Prasarana.

To accommodate growing demand, local councils must invest in pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, including sidewalks, sheltered walkways, crosswalks, and bus stops.

Public trust in transportation will grow. A developed Malaysia will be defined by the wealthy using public transport, not car ownership among the poor.

Increased use of public transport will make car ownership and use optional, significantly reducing the number of cars on the road and solves the perennial problem of traffic congestion.

This transformation will reshape Malaysian urban planning and mobility. Rather than focusing on highways and road expansion, planners will prioritise people-centred environments to create inclusive, liveable cities for all, beyond simply managing traffic. While cars will remain available, they will be an option, not a requirement.

A human-centred Malaysia will encourage a more active lifestyle. Walking and cycling as primary modes of transport can reduce obesity and diabetes rates, easing the strain on our healthcare system.

Improved air and noise quality will create a healthier living environment. By limiting urban sprawl, we can also safeguard natural habitats and protect endangered species.

A question of political will

A Malaysia without car dependency may seem utopian, but our current challenges shouldn’t deter us from pursuing change.

To build a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Malaysia, the Madani government must address the nation’s car culture.

By eliminating fuel subsidies, rebalancing automotive policies, and prioritising people in urban planning, Malaysia can shift towards a people-centric model. - Aug 2, 2024

Boo Jia Cher is a Focus Malaysia reader. 

https://focusmalaysia.my/from-a-car-centric-crisis-to-a-people-centric-future/