Malaysia’s green mobility: lessons from China’s bike-sharing revolution

As Malaysia accelerates its journey towards sustainable and low-carbon development, reimagining urban transportation is critical. With traffic congestion worsening, carbon emissions on the rise and climate change becoming more urgent, cities are increasingly seeking green mobility solutions. One proven model comes from China where shared bicycles and electric bikes (e-bikes) have transformed daily commuting.

Could Malaysia follow in those tire tracks?

A glimpse into China’s green mobility revolution

In the past decade, China has become a global pioneer in urban micromobility, particularly through its booming shared bike and e-bike ecosystem. Using mobile apps like Meituan Bike, Hello Bike and Qiunju Bike, millions of users in cities like Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou can unlock a bicycle or e-bike in seconds, ride to their destination and leave the vehicle at a designated parking zone.

This seamless and affordable service has made cycling a mainstream mode of transport, particularly for short-distance trips. More than just a lifestyle trend, it’s a climate solution, helping reduce car dependency, ease traffic congestion and cut urban carbon emissions.

Malaysia’s current urban mobility landscape

Unlike China, Malaysia remains heavily reliant on private vehicles. A 2024 survey by Statista revealed that approximately 73% of Malaysian respondents owned a car, indicating a higher car ownership rate than many of its neighbouring countries. While public transportation in urban areas has shown signs of improvement, it continues to struggle with issues related to last-mile connectivity.

The Transport Ministry’s National Transport Policy 2019–2030 (NTP) outlines ambitions to promote green and sustainable mobility. Among its key objectives is to increase non-motorised transport infrastructure and encourage walking and cycling, but implementation on the ground remains limited.

However, the foundations are there. Initiatives like KL Car-Free Morning, the Penang Bicycle Route Master Plan and Rapid KL’s enhanced feeder bus services point to a growing awareness of sustainable urban mobility.

Adapting China’s model to Malaysia

Introducing a shared bike or e-bike system in cities like Kuala Lumpur, George Town or Johor Bahru could dramatically enhance last-mile connectivity and reduce carbon footprints.

Given Malaysia’s hot and humid weather, electric bicycles may be more appealing than traditional pedal bikes, especially for working adults and students. Riders could use an app to pick up an e-bike near their home or LRT/MRT station, ride to school or work and park it at a hub nearby. Such a system would complement existing transport services while reducing dependence on motorcycles and private cars.

Pilot programs could begin in university campuses (e.g. UM, UKM, UTM), tech parks or tourist-heavy areas like Melaka or Langkawi.

Government support is key

Successful implementation would require strong policy and infrastructure support. This includes the provision of dedicated bike lanes for safety and comfort, as well as shaded and well-lit paths to ensure the system is usable in all weather conditions. Public-private partnerships would be essential to manage bike fleets, develop mobile applications and provide regular maintenance services. The government could further encourage adoption by offering incentives or tax breaks for companies involved in green transport solutions. Encouragingly, the Low Carbon Cities Framework (LCCF) by the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry promotes sustainable mobility as part of its city rating system. Local councils and state governments can align shared bike initiatives with their LCCF goals to ensure a cohesive and supportive policy environment.

The benefits are compelling

Shared bike and e-bike systems offer numerous benefits for Malaysia. Environmentally, they contribute to reduced carbon dioxide emissions and result in less air and noise pollution. Economically, they can create new job opportunities in maintenance, app development, and green logistics. Socially, these systems offer affordable transport options for low-income groups, promote healthier lifestyles, and help improve the overall liveability of urban areas. Moreover, shared bikes and e-bikes open up opportunities for sustainable tourism. Imagine visitors in George Town, Ipoh, or Melaka exploring cultural and heritage sites on shared e-bikes, enjoying the experience without contributing to road congestion or pollution.

Anticipating challenges and solutions

The implementation of shared bike and e-bike systems in Malaysia presents several practical, cultural, and technological challenges that require careful consideration. Malaysia’s tropical climate can discourage regular cycling without adequate protection from heat and rain, underscoring the need for shaded, safe and well-maintained cycling routes.

Cultural norms also pose a significant barrier. Private car and motorcycle ownership is often associated with convenience and social status, making it difficult for cycling to be accepted as a mainstream mode of transport. Overcoming this mindset will require sustained public education and policy incentives that promote cycling as a viable and respectable alternative. Public awareness of green mobility remains relatively low. Without effective engagement, bike-sharing may be seen as impractical, particularly in areas with poor public transport links. Moreover, digital accessibility is a major concern, as most systems rely on smartphone applications for access and payment. Not all users, especially older adults and lower-income

groups, are familiar or comfortable with such technology. Reliable mobile network coverage is also essential but may be inconsistent in rural areas.

Operationally, Malaysia can learn from China’s early experience with dockless bike-sharing. Poor regulation led to disorder, with bikes abandoned in public spaces. This prompted the introduction of GPS-monitored parking zones and teams to manage improperly parked bikes. Similar issues could arise without proper oversight. Additionally, theft, vandalism and maintenance challenges are common worldwide and must be addressed through durable designs, secure locking systems, and regular upkeep.

Given these factors, shared bike and e-bike initiatives may be more suitable for urban settings, where infrastructure, digital connectivity, and environmental awareness are stronger. Prioritising city-based rollouts allows for better control, higher adoption rates and valuable insights before considering expansion into less-developed areas.

A greener Malaysia in motion

China has shown that green urban transport is achievable with the right technology, planning, and public support. Malaysia now has a chance to lead the region in smart, inclusive and sustainable mobility. If we invest wisely and plan boldly, the next chapter of Malaysian urban development could be written on two wheels.

Ts. Dr. Wong Tee Hao is a Lecturer at University of Technology Sarawak. The views expressed here are entirely the writer’s own.

The SEARCH Scholar Series is a social responsibility programme jointly organised by the Southeast Asia Research Centre for Humanities (SEARCH) and Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT).