Developing effective End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) management systems in Southeast Asian countries, including Malaysia, is recognised as a critically important step towards addressing environmental protection and public health challenges in the region.

In developing areas such as Southeast Asia, the dismantling of ELVs is often undertaken by the informal sector. Operators in this sector earn their livelihoods by extracting and reselling reusable parts. However, a significant issue arises from the improper handling of hazardous substances, such as refrigerant gases and waste oil. This mismanagement can lead directly to negative externalities, including environmental degradation and health risks.

To ensure proper dismantling of vehicles, the involvement of formal operators working under appropriate regulations and management systems is essential. Existing research and policy frameworks frequently suggest mitigating these negative externalities by formalising the informal sector—an outcome typically linked to economic development in emerging economies.

This seminar aims to disseminate ERIA’s recent publication on vehicle recycling in the ASEAN region to stakeholders in Malaysia. It also seeks to bring together relevant parties to discuss the current state of ELV management, build on regional insights, and explore pathways towards developing a more formal and sustainable system in line with Malaysia’s economic growth and the advancement of its automotive industry.