Several new government measures officially come into effect across Malaysia from 1 July, bringing changes that will affect banking services, diesel subsidies, passport applications, electric vehicle (EV) imports, road transport enforcement and the ongoing search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370.
Free Interbank ATM Withdrawals
One of the biggest changes for consumers is the abolition of the RM1 fee for interbank cash withdrawals.
From today, bank customers can make unlimited free withdrawals at more than 14,000 bank-operated ATMs nationwide, even when using a machine belonging to a different bank. This means Malaysians no longer need to search for their own bank’s ATM to avoid additional charges.
Nationwide Diesel Price And Targeted Subsidies
Malaysia’s diesel pricing mechanism has also been revised.
The retail price of diesel has been standardised at RM2.10 per litre nationwide, while eligible Malaysian citizens who own legally registered diesel-powered vehicles with valid road tax can receive a monthly subsidised quota of 200 litres.
Commercial transport operators using diesel pick-up trucks and four-wheel-drive vehicles may also qualify for an additional 100 litres, subject to government approval.
New Five-Year And 10-Year Passport Options
Frequent travellers now have greater flexibility when renewing their passports.
Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above can choose between passports with five-year or 10-year validity, offering a more convenient option for those travelling regularly for work, business, education or holidays.
New Rules For Imported Electric Vehicles
The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry has introduced fresh requirements for completely built-up (CBU) electric vehicles.
The previous special exemption for imported EVs has ended. Under the new policy, imported EVs must have a minimum cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value of RM200,000, while the minimum power output requirement has been lowered to 180kW, replacing the previous conditions of a RM250,000 minimum selling price and at least 200kW of power.
Heavy Vehicle Speed Limiter Enforcement Delayed
The mandatory enforcement of speed limiters for heavy vehicles will not begin as originally scheduled.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke said many lorries have yet to complete the installation process, and the government will announce a revised enforcement timeline after further discussions.
MH370 Search Extended For Another Year
The search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 will continue under a renewed agreement with marine exploration company Ocean Infinity.
The government has approved a 12-month extension, allowing search operations in the southern Indian Ocean to continue from 1 July 2026 until 30 June 2027.
What It Means For Malaysians
The latest measures cover a broad range of sectors, including banking, transport, immigration, the automotive industry and aviation.
For most Malaysians, the most noticeable changes will be the removal of interbank ATM withdrawal fees and the introduction of the new 10-year passport option. Meanwhile, the revised diesel subsidy programme, new EV import requirements and delayed speed limiter enforcement are expected to have a significant impact on businesses and the transport sector in the months ahead.
