Installation of EVCS

All electrical wiring work for an EVCS must be carried out by the respective “competent persons” in accordance with the Electricity Regulations 1994, who (and those under his control) shall comply with all applicable standards or specifications prescribed under the EV Guidelines.

EV Charging Modes

The EV Guidelines adopt the EV charging modes defined under IEC 61851-1, namely Mode 1 through Mode 4, but only Modes 2, 3, and 4 are permitted.

Mode 1 – Prohibited

Mode 1 charging is not permitted for any EVCS installation in Malaysia.

Mode 2

Mode 2 allows EVs to connect to an alternating current (AC) supply (not exceeding 32A and 230V AC for single-phase, or 400V AC for three-phase) using a cable fitted with an In-Cable Control and Protection Device (IC-CPD) for basic safety and communication functions.

Mode 3

Mode 3 involves a permanent connection to an AC supply via an EVSE equipped with a control pilot function for communication with the EV. This mode supports higher current and faster charging, subject to the capacity of the EV’s on-board charger.

Mode 4

Mode 4 supports direct current (DC) charging using off-board chargers that deliver power directly to the EV’s battery, bypassing the on-board charger. This is the fastest charging option and supports higher power ratings.

See illustrations of the connections of the different modes in the EV Guidelines.

EVSE Equipment and Connectors

Permissible Connectors

• Mode 2 and 3 (AC): Type 2 connectors.
• Mode 4 (DC): Combo CCS Type 2 and CHAdeMO connectors.

Socket Outlets and Plugs

• Must comply with the specifications outlined in IEC 62196 and other applicable standards (e.g., MS 589-1, BS 1363-1, MS 1577, IEC 60309, and those listed in the EV Guidelines).
• Socket outlets must be installed at a minimum height of 1.2 meters from the finished floor level, adjustable as needed.

Ingress Protection

EVSE enclosures must meet the minimum IP ratings under IEC 60529 as follows:

• Indoor use: IP41.
• Outdoor use: IP44.

Maintenance

Regular inspections of the EVCS must be conducted as per manufacturer’s recommendations. All installations and equipment must be kept in a safe and serviceable condition. Documentation of all stages (design, construction, operation, inspection, testing, and maintenance of the EVCS) must be retained and made available to authorised personnel. Further, competent persons must use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during any electrical work involving EVCS, whenever appropriate.

Final Thoughts

As Malaysia accelerates toward a more sustainable and electrified future, the issuance of the EV Guidelines marks a pivotal step in ensuring that the nation’s charging infrastructure is not only future-ready but also safe, standardised, and legally sound. These EV Guidelines provide much-needed clarity for stakeholders across the EV value chain by setting out clear expectations on compliance, technical standards, and safety protocols.

With the rapid rise of EV adoption, the energy landscape is shifting gears. For those looking to stay ahead of the curve (and in the current), understanding and adhering to these EV Guidelines will be critical in order to position itself at the forefront of this global green transition.

The EV Guidelines are available here.

If you have any query, please contact the authors, Associate Kerryn Toh (ryn@lh-ag.com) or her team Partner Joyce Ong Kar Yee (oky@lh-ag.com), from the Energy, Projects & Infrastructure Practice.