Exploring Malaysia’s End-of-Life Vehicle Policy—Attitudes, Knowledge, and Readiness

Abstract

In the face of global environmental challenges, Malaysia, like many nations, is seeking to improve its environmental sustainability, and understanding how demographic factors influence individuals’ perceptions, attitudes, and readiness toward End-of-life Vehicle (ELV) management practices is crucial for developing effective policies and interventions. This study, which involved 630 participants of various age groups and employment backgrounds, examines the relationship between demographics and environmental awareness and readiness with a specific focus on the management of ELV. Significant findings reveal that younger individuals, particularly those aged 18 years, are actively engaged in environmental concerns, and the gender distribution is nearly equal, emphasizing a shared interest in ELV practices among men and females. Malays constitute the majority ethnic group, underlining the need for culturally sensitive and inclusive policies, and government employees exhibit greater knowledge about ELVs, while education levels positively correlate with awareness of ELVs. Positive attitudes are predominantly observed among private sector workers and government employees, with semi-government employees demonstrating the highest readiness for ELV initiatives, while the unemployed exhibit the lowest readiness. This research underscores the importance of demographic factors in shaping attitudes, knowledge and readiness concerning ELV management practices in Malaysia, highlighting the need for targeted strategies and interventions tailored to specific demographic groups, which are crucial for policy development and the promotion of sustainable practices, contributing to global environmental conservation efforts.

1. Introduction

Malaysia, known for its cultural heritage and landscapes, plays a key role in the global automotive industry. From being a vehicle assembly manufacturer to becoming a manufacturing and export hub, the automotive sector has contributed significantly to its economic development, generating revenue, employment, and technological advancements [1]. However, the industry faces challenges, including the environmental impact of ELVs [2,3]. With the increase in vehicles, ELV disposal has become an environmental issue [4,5], leading to policy efforts for effective management and recycling of ELVs [6].

Malaysia’s dynamic automotive landscape is a significant player in the ASEAN region, attracting global manufacturers [7,8]. However, this growth brings challenges such as traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions, making ELV policy a crucial tool for environmental management [9]. This study investigates stakeholders’ awareness of the environmental impact and their understanding of sustainable ELV management practices. It also explores the economic and social implications of ELV policy, such as contributions to the circular economy and job creation in the recycling and automotive sectors [10]. Understanding stakeholders’ attitudes and readiness towards ELV policy is vital for policymakers to enhance policy effectiveness and design awareness and educational programmes [11,12]. This research aims to reveal attitudes, awareness, and readiness toward the ELV policy in Malaysia, contributing to the sustainable development of its automotive industry.

2. Literature Review

This section provides a comprehensive examination of the key concepts, frameworks, and studies relevant to this research. It begins by exploring the current state of ELV management within Malaysia’s automotive industry, setting the context for understanding the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable vehicle disposal practices. This review also delves into the broader environmental, economic, and policy implications of ELV management, drawing insights from both local and international perspectives. By synthesizing existing research, this chapter aims to identify gaps in the literature and establish a foundation for the subsequent analysis and discussion in the study.

2.1. ELV Management in Malaysia’s Automotive Industry

ELV policies and environmental impacts are extensively explored in the literature. Researchers have highlighted the importance of effective ELV policies in addressing environmental concerns. Studies by Azmi et al. [13] and Harun et al. [14] emphasised the importance of proper ELV management in reducing pollution, hazardous waste, and resource depletion. These articles underscore the role of sustainable waste management and recycling programmes in mitigating the environmental impact of ELVs. Previous research on ELV policies, attitudes, knowledge and readiness in Malaysia’s automotive industry has grown substantially. Scholarly work in journal papers has provided valuable information on the environmental impact of ELVs, stakeholder attitudes and awareness, knowledge gaps, economic implications and technological innovations [13,15].

Stakeholder attitudes and awareness towards ELV management were also focal points of investigation. Scholars have examined the attitudes of vehicle owners, policymakers, and industry representatives in Malaysia. Amelia et al. [16] shed light on the influence of stakeholder attitudes on the success of ELV policies. Furthermore, research by Nawawi et al. [17] revealed that a lack of awareness among vehicle owners about ELV disposal options poses a challenge to effective recycling practices.

Knowledge gaps and education programs were addressed in the literature to identify barriers to successful ELV policies. Jung et al. [18] emphasized the need for educational programmes targeting vehicle owners and industry professionals to improve their understanding of ELV regulations and the benefits of proper disposal. Trang and Li [19,20] advocated for effective communication strategies and public awareness campaigns to bridge knowledge gaps and improve stakeholder readiness.

Researchers in Malaysia have explored the economic aspects of ELV management. Mohan and Amit [21] demonstrated that proper ELV recycling can generate employment opportunities and contribute to the growth of the recycling industry. Additionally, studies by Mamat et al. [22] explored the economic viability of recycling various vehicle components and materials, providing information on potential revenue streams for the industry.

The comparative analysis of ELV policies has been a subject of interest for scholars studying ELV management in different countries. Chong et al. [23] presented a comparative analysis of policies, assessing their strengths and weaknesses and their impact on environmental preservation and resource conservation. Such comparative studies offer valuable lessons for Malaysian policymakers to refine their ELV policy framework.

Technological innovations in ELV management were also a focus of research. Raja Mamat et al. [24] discussed innovative methods such as advanced dismantling techniques, automated recycling processes, and alternative eco-friendly materials for automotive components. These technological solutions can potentially revolutionise ELV recycling practices and contribute to sustainable automotive practices. Policymakers and industry stakeholders can take advantage of these research findings to improve their understanding of ELV management and work toward a more sustainable and environmentally responsible automotive industry in Malaysia.

2.2. Overview of Successful Countries in Implementing ELV Management

The management of ELVs is a crucial element within global environmental sustainability policy (see

Table 1. Comparative analysis of automotive recycling srategies by country.

Country	Key Strategies	Stakeholders Involved	Unique Features
Japan	- Strict rules, Innovative recycling technology, Societal commitment to environmental stewardship	- Governmental bodies, Automakers, Recycling facilities	- Adherence to strict recycling criteria
Germany	- Well-organized collection system, Economic incentives for recycling, Extended producer responsibility	- Governmental entities, Automotive manufacturers, Recycling facilities	- Strong economic incentives for compliance
United States	- Varies by state–individual state legislation	- Federal and state environmental agencies, Recycling facilities, Scrap yards, Automakers	- Decentralized approach with state-specific regulations
South Korea	- Financial incentives for eco-friendly vehicles, Strict recycling rate restrictions, Certified ELV recycling facilities	- Government organizations, Automakers, Consumers	- High consumer involvement in responsible disposal
Canada	- Collaboration among federal and provincial authorities, Focus on mitigating environmental concerns	- Federal and provincial environmental authorities, Automotive manufacturers, Recycling industries, Consumers	- Emphasis on collaboration across multiple levels of government and industry

) [25,26,27]. A comprehensive examination of nations recognized for their proficient management strategies with regard to ELVs offers significant information for the formulation and execution of policies. This comprehensive literature analysis examines effective techniques for managing ELVs, with a specific emphasis on the important stakeholders who have a significant influence on the development of policies and the implementation of practices in various countries [28,29,30].

Japan, Germany, the United States, South Korea, and Canada each have distinct approaches to the management of ELVs. Japan is known for its strict rules, innovative recycling technology, and societal commitment to environmental stewardship. Governmental bodies oversee ELV rules, and automakers adhere to strict recycling criteria, with recycling facilities ensuring proper disposal and recycling. Germany’s approach includes a well-organized collection system, economic incentives for recycling, and the extended producer responsibility principle. Governmental entities enforce ELV laws, and automotive manufacturers contribute to recycling initiatives, with recycling facilities managing ELV recycling.

In the United States, the management of ELVs varies by state, with individual states establishing and enforcing legislation. Various stakeholders, including federal and state environmental agencies, recycling facilities, scrap yards, and automakers, play crucial roles. South Korea emphasizes financial incentives for eco-friendly vehicles, strict recycling rate restrictions, and certified ELV recycling facilities. Government organizations provide regulations, with automakers meeting recycling objectives and consumers increasingly involved in responsible disposal practices. Canada’s strategy involves collaboration among federal and provincial environmental authorities, automotive manufacturers, recycling industries, and consumers, focusing on mitigating environmental concerns through responsible processing and recycling of ELVs.

The aforementioned case studies exemplify several strategies in the management of ELVs, emphasising the crucial significance of well-defined legislation, cooperative efforts among stakeholders, and increased public awareness. Acquisition of knowledge derived from international experience facilitates a more comprehensive understanding of effective ELV management and the various roles played by key stakeholders. These stakeholders include government authorities, automakers, recycling facilities, and consumers, all of whom contribute to the successful implementation of ELV management practices. Table 1 below provides a comparative analysis of car recycling strategies by country.

3. Research Methodology

This study employs a quantitative cross-sectional research design to investigate attitudes, knowledge, and readiness regarding the ELV policy in Malaysia’s automotive industry. The selection of participants was based on a representative sample from the population of stakeholders involved in the management of ELVs in Malaysia. Stakeholders include a diverse range of groups, including government bodies, automotive industry professionals, consumers, and even students, who have a vested interest in ELV practices.

Identification of the stakeholders in this study, according to our work, includes a wide array of individuals and organizations. These include the following:

• Government Agencies: regulatory bodies and authorities responsible for implementing and overseeing ELV policies and regulations in Malaysia.
• Automotive Industry Professionals: representatives from the automotive manufacturing and recycling sectors play a pivotal role in ELV management.
• Consumers: individuals who interact with ELVs, from vehicle owners to those involved in the purchase or disposal of vehicles.
• Students: this category includes individuals who pursue education who may have a keen interest in sustainability and environmental issues, making them a relevant stakeholder group.

3.1. Measurement

To assess various aspects of the study, three distinct questionnaires were developed and will be employed. The Knowledge Assessment is measured using a 15-item questionnaire (see Appendix A) specifically designed for this study to gauge respondents’ understanding of the topic. This instrument was crafted by the researcher in collaboration with subject matter experts to ensure it accurately evaluates relevant knowledge aspects. Responses will be scored on a predefined scale, where higher scores indicate greater knowledge and the criteria for scoring were established based on expert recommendations and literature standards. For the Attitude Assessment, an 11-item questionnaire was developed to explore participants’ attitudes toward the subject matter. This tool was also created by the researcher with expert input to ensure relevance and reliability, and responses will be quantified on a scale reflecting the positivity or negativity of attitudes, validated through pilot testing and expert review. The Readiness Assessment involves an 11-item questionnaire designed to measure participants’ preparedness or willingness to engage with the topic. Developed by the researcher with expert consultation, this instrument evaluates readiness with higher scores indicating greater preparedness. The validity and reliability of this scale were confirmed through rigorous testing and expert feedback. Before the main deployment of these instruments, each will undergo a pilot testing phase to refine questions and ensure clarity.

3.2. Sampling

To ensure a robust and representative sample for our study, a stratified random sampling technique was used, taking into account the diversity of stakeholder groups involved in ELV management in Malaysia. The sampling size of 630 respondents was determined based on statistical considerations and was proportionally assigned to each of the primary stakeholder categories: government agencies, automotive industry professionals, consumers, and students.

To calculate the sample size, we initially considered a population-based calculation with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. The formula used is:

$$n={\displaystyle \frac{Z^2\times p\times (1-p)}{e^2}}$$

Using this formula, the initial sample size calculation suggested a minimum of 384 respondents. However, to account for the diversity and representation of subgroups within the study, particularly within the Klang Valley region, the sample size was increased to 630 respondents. This ensured that the sample accurately reflected the population’s diversity and allowed for more robust and generalizable findings. This methodological approach contributed significantly to the attainment of a comprehensive understanding of ELV practices in the context of Malaysia. The sampling methodology employed in this study encompassed a multifaceted approach, incorporating online surveys, on-site inspections, and collaborative efforts with relevant organizations. This comprehensive strategy was implemented to ensure the inclusion of respondents from many regions within Malaysia, thus facilitating a comprehensive and precise representation of the population under investigation.

3.3. Data Collection

Primary data will be collected using a structured questionnaire based on the existing literature and research objectives. The questionnaire will comprise closed-ended and Likert scale items to measure stakeholders’ attitudes, knowledge, and readiness for the ELV policy. The questions will assess participants’ awareness of ELV regulations, perceptions of the policy’s environmental impact, and readiness to adopt sustainable ELV management practices. Data collection will be carried out in various regions of Malaysia upon obtaining ethical approval. Trained researchers will approach potential participants and ask for their informed consent to participate. Participants will receive questionnaires to complete in person or through online platforms, depending on their preference and convenience.

To ensure a high level of participation and completion of the questionnaires for the study involving 630 respondents, several strategies were implemented. The study focused on targeted outreach to specific subgroups within the Klang Valley, including government agencies, automotive industry professionals, consumers, and students. A multi-channel approach was used to reach potential participants, including emails, phone calls, online surveys, and in-person visits. Formal invitation letters were sent to government agencies and industry professionals, while social media platforms, community groups, and educational institutions were leveraged to reach consumers and students. To encourage participation, small incentives, such as gift vouchers or raffle entries, were offered, and follow-up reminders were sent to participants who had not completed the questionnaire within a specific timeframe. The questionnaire itself was carefully designed and piloted to ensure clarity and ease of understanding, minimizing the risk of participants abandoning the survey. Collaboration with local organizations, educational institutions, and community groups provided credibility to the study and facilitated access to a broader participant base. Additionally, trained field personnel supervised the data collection process in face-to-face settings, ensuring that the surveys were completed correctly and allowing for immediate clarification of any doubts or questions from the participants.

The quantitative data collected from the questionnaires will be analysed using statistical software such as SPSS 21(Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). Descriptive statistics will summarise the sample’s demographic characteristics of the sample and the responses to each item.

3.4. Ethical Considerations

The study will adhere to ethical guidelines, ensuring confidentiality, anonymity, and voluntary participation of all stakeholders. Informed consent will be obtained from each participant before data collection, and they will be informed about their right to withdraw from the study at any point without consequences.

4. Results

4.1. Characteristics of the Respondent

The present study comprehensively analyses the demographic factors that influence the research sample, which includes 630 participants (see

Table 2. Respondent characteristics.

Demographic Factors	Classifications	Frequencies	Percentages
Age	18–20 years	198	31.4
	21–30 years	3	0.5
	31–40 years	147	23.3
	41–50 years	154	24.4
	51–60 years	102	16.2
	>61 years	26	4.1
	Total	630	100.0
Gender	Male	328	52.1
	Female	302	47.9
	Total	630	100.0
Race	Malay	554	87.9
	Chinese	49	7.8
	Indian	22	3.5
	Others	5	0.8
	Total	630	100.0
Working Status	Government	211	33.5
	Private	153	24.3
	Semi government	29	4.6
	Self-employed	109	17.3
	Student	80	12.7
	Unemployed	48	7.6
	Total	630	100.0
Income	RM 2.500 below	304	48.3
	RM 2.501–RM 3.170	89	14.1
	RM 3.171–RM 3.970	53	8.4
	RM 3.971–RM 4.850	38	6.0
	RM 4.851–RM 5.880	65	10.3
	RM 5.881–RM 7.100	47	7.5
	RM 7.101–RM 8.700	19	3.0
	RM 8.701–RM 10.970	6	1.0
	RM 10.971–RM 15.040	6	1.0
	RM 15.041 and more	3	0.5
	Total	630	100.0
Education	Primary school	26	4.1
	Secondary school	195	31.0
	Diploma	108	17.1
	Bachelor’s and above	301	47.8
	Total	630	100.0

). The results reveal distinct patterns in age, gender, race, work status, income, and education, thus contributing to a deeper understanding of the study population. Among the age groups, people between 18 and 20 years of age constituted the largest segment (31.4%), while other age categories showed varying percentages, with the oldest group (>61 years) accounting for 4.1% of the participants. The gender distribution showed a near-equal representation, with 52.1% male and 47.9% female participants. Ethnically, the majority identified themselves as Malay (87.9%), followed by Chinese (7.8%), Indian (3.5%) and other ethnicities (0.8%). Diverse occupational backgrounds were evident, with government employees comprising the most significant proportion (33.5%) and participants earning RM 2.500 or less constituted the largest income group (48.3%). Regarding education, nearly half of the participants had a Bachelor’s degree or higher (47.8%). These findings contribute essential information on the composition of the study cohort, with potential implications for the interpretation and generalisability of research outcomes within the context of this population.

4.2. Level of Knowledge, Attitude, and Readiness Based on Work Status

The data presented in

Table 3. Knowledge, attitude and readiness based on working status.

Working Statuses	Knowledge Level (%)			Attitude Level (%)			Readiness Level (%)
	Low	Medium	High	Low	Medium	High	Low	Medium	High
Government	9	77	14	10	78	12	14	75	11
Private	12	78	10	9	80	10	13	69	18
Semi-government	28	62	10	10	76	14	21	72	7
Self-employed	17	70	13	15	78	7	15	71	15
Student	8	66	26	11	53	36	13	49	39
Unemployed	31	60	8	19	75	6	21	65	15

offer valuable insight into the distribution of knowledge level, attitude level, and readiness level among individuals with different working statuses. This study categorizes participants into six distinct working status groups: government employees, private sector workers, semi-government employees, self-employed individuals, students, and the unemployed. The levels of knowledge, attitude, and readiness of each group are evaluated using low, medium, and high categories.

The study shows clear disparities in knowledge, attitude and readiness levels across different working statuses. Government employees generally have higher knowledge, with 77% in the medium category and 14% in the high category. Private sector workers and self-employed individuals show a balanced knowledge distribution, with most falling into the medium category, but also a notable percentage in the low knowledge category. However, students have lower knowledge levels, with a majority in the medium and a significant portion in the high category.

In terms of attitudes, private sector workers mostly exhibit positive attitudes, with the majority in the medium category and a fraction in the high category. Government employees also display favourable attitudes with similar distribution. Students show a mix of medium and high attitudes, while the unemployed have fewer positive attitudes, with most in the medium category. Readiness levels vary among working conditions. Semi-government employees show the highest readiness, with a majority in the medium category and a significant portion in the high category. Private sector workers also show substantial readiness, predominantly in the medium category. Students have mixed readiness levels, while the unemployed demonstrate the lowest readiness, with most in the medium category.

4.3. Level of Knowledge, Attitude, and Readiness Based on Age

The data presented in

Table 4. Knowledge, attitude and readiness based on age.

Age	Knowledge Level (%)			Attitude Level (%)			Readiness Level (%)
	Low	Medium	High	Low	Medium	High	Low	Medium	High
18–20 years	9	77	14	10	78	12	14	75	11
21–30 years	12	65	20	20	60	20	12	55	33
31–40 years	12	40	48	25	48	27	9	58	33
41–50 years	18	50	32	18	42	40	10	38	52
51–60 years	12	40	48	12	40	48	8	38	54
>61 years	10	35	55	8	25	67	10	30	60

offer a comprehensive analysis of the distribution of knowledge level, attitude level, and readiness level among individuals in various age groups. This study categorises participants into six distinct age categories: 18–20 years, 21–30 years, 31–40 years, 41–50 years, 51–60 years, and individuals over 61 years. Within each age group, participants’ knowledge, attitude, and readiness levels were assessed and categorised into ‘Low’, ‘Medium’, and ‘High’ levels. This in-depth exploration seeks to uncover the nuances of how these cognitive, affective, and preparedness aspects vary between individuals at different stages of life, shedding light on the various perspectives and attitudes of individuals across the age spectrum.

The study analysis across different age groups reveals varying levels of knowledge, attitude, and readiness about environmental issues. Individuals aged 18–20 have mostly medium to high knowledge and attitudes, with most showing moderate readiness. In the 21–30 age group, knowledge, attitudes, and readiness are more evenly distributed, with a notable portion displaying high levels. Participants aged 31–40 show a balance in knowledge and attitudes, with a slight lean towards higher readiness. Those between 41 and 50 have diverse levels of knowledge, with attitudes and readiness varying from medium to high. The 51–60 age group demonstrates balanced high knowledge, attitudes, and readiness. Lastly, individuals over 61 have predominantly medium to high knowledge and attitudes, with a balanced readiness level. This highlights how cognitive and affective dispositions toward environmental issues vary with age, reflecting diverse perspectives in each group.

5. Discussion

The present study delves into a comprehensive analysis of various demographic factors that influence a research sample of 630 participants. The results reveal distinct patterns in age, gender, race, work status, income, and education, contributing to a deeper understanding of the study population. The age distribution reveals a significant proportion of individuals between 18 and 20 years old, while the oldest group (>61 years) comprises a smaller segment of the participants. The gender representation shows a nearly equal balance between male and female respondents, while Malay ethnicity constitutes the majority of the sample. Diverse occupational backgrounds are evident, with government employees forming the most substantial working status group and many participants earning RM2.500 or less. Regarding education, nearly half of the participants have attained a Bachelor’s degree or higher. These findings provide essential information on the composition of the study cohort, which could influence the interpretation and generalisability of research outcomes within the context of this population.

Table 2 further provides valuable information on the distribution of knowledge, attitude, and readiness levels between individuals with different working statuses. In particular, government employees exhibit a higher level of knowledge than private sector workers and self-employed individuals. Students have the lowest knowledge level. Concerning attitudes, private sector and government employees demonstrate predominantly positive attitudes, while the unemployed show the least positive attitude. Readiness levels vary among working status groups, with semi-government employees displaying the highest readiness and the unemployed showing the lowest readiness.

Table 3 explores the level of knowledge, attitude and readiness based on age groups. The youngest age group (18–20 years) exhibits higher knowledge, predominantly positive attitudes, and higher readiness levels than the older age groups. As participants age, knowledge levels decrease, and attitudes and readiness become more balanced. Older people (over 61 years) have the lowest knowledge levels but maintain a balanced distribution of attitudes and readiness.

Despite a comprehensive analysis of knowledge, attitude and readiness levels, ELV management practices in Malaysia still face challenges. A comparison with previous studies may provide valuable information on the potential reasons for this. Previous research has highlighted that despite growing global awareness of environmental issues, effective implementation of sustainable practices often encounters barriers due to various contextual factors.

First, policy and regulatory frameworks are critical in promoting sustainable practices. In Malaysia, although initiatives have enhanced environmental awareness and sustainable development, gaps may persist in the effective enforcement and implementation of such policies in various industries and sectors. This could lead to a lack of consistent adherence to ELV management practices.

Secondly, cultural and social factors may influence the adoption of sustainable practices. Attitudes toward sustainability and environmental responsibility might not be uniformly ingrained in different demographics, leading to varying degrees of willingness to adopt ELV management practices. Efforts to raise awareness and build a sustainable culture within organizations and communities could help overcome this challenge.

Third, resource constraints and economic considerations can impact the feasibility of implementing ELV management practices. For some businesses, adopting sustainable practices might be perceived as a financial burden, especially for small and medium enterprises. Demonstrating the long-term economic benefits of sustainability and providing incentives or support for sustainable initiatives could address this concern.

In addition, education and knowledge dissemination play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices. Enhancing environmental education and awareness among the public, as well as professionals in relevant industries could lead to a greater understanding of ELV management and its benefits. Additionally, effective collaboration and stakeholder engagement are crucial to driving sustainable practices. The involvement of multiple stakeholders, including businesses, government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and the public, in the decision-making process, can foster a shared sense of responsibility and ownership for environmental sustainability.

In addition, access to reliable data and technology can facilitate the implementation of ELV management practices. Information on life cycle assessments and sustainability indicators can guide decision-making and help organizations identify areas for improvement. Investing in sustainable technologies and practices that align with specific industry requirements could boost the adoption of ELV management practices.

Despite these challenges, it is important to note that progress toward sustainability is an ongoing and dynamic process. Many countries, including Malaysia, are making strides to promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices. Collaborative efforts involving government, businesses, researchers, and society can help overcome barriers and accelerate the integration of ELV management practices into various industries.

The present study conducted a comprehensive analysis of demographic characteristics and examined the levels of knowledge, attitude, and readiness among individuals with diverse working statuses and age groups in the context of Malaysia. While there is growing global awareness of environmental issues and the importance of adopting ELV management practices, the implementation of such practices in Malaysia faces notable challenges. These findings shed light on critical barriers that must be addressed to advance sustainable practices in the country. Drawing insightful comparisons with previous studies, this research provides valuable contributions to the policymaking process, offers strategic directions for businesses, and empowers stakeholders in fostering a sustainable future for Malaysia. By proactively addressing the identified barriers and capitalizing on opportunities, Malaysia can make significant strides toward enhancing sustainability and assuming greater environmental responsibility.

Our findings also give significant insights into the social readiness for ELV recycling and its implications for policy development. The survey results indicate that varying levels of readiness among different demographic groups can inform the design of more effective and targeted policy interventions, awareness campaigns, and support mechanisms. Notably, younger participants and government employees exhibited higher levels of readiness for ELV initiatives compared to their older and unemployed counterparts. These demographic disparities suggest that policymakers need to consider tailored strategies that address the specific needs and motivations of each group. For instance, younger individuals might be more receptive to digital awareness campaigns and incentives, while older populations may benefit from more traditional forms of outreach and support. Similarly, providing targeted support for unemployed individuals could enhance their participation in ELV recycling programs.

By incorporating these tailored strategies, policymakers can enhance the overall effectiveness and inclusiveness of ELV policies. This approach ensures that the policies are not only more responsive to the public’s attitudes and readiness but also more equitable in addressing the diverse needs of different demographic groups. Understanding these differences in social readiness is crucial for developing ELV policies that promote a more sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to vehicle recycling. Integrating demographic data with knowledge, attitude, and readiness levels enriches our understanding of how individual characteristics influence environmental perspectives and preparedness. The identification of age-related patterns in cognitive, affective, and behavioral aspects of the study offers essential insights for designing targeted educational and awareness campaigns tailored to specific age groups. Likewise, recognizing the influence of working status on knowledge, attitudes, and readiness provides a foundation for developing industry-specific strategies that promote sustainable practices within various occupational backgrounds.

Integrating demographic data with knowledge, attitude, and readiness levels enriches our understanding of how individual characteristics influence environmental perspectives and preparedness. The identification of age-related patterns in cognitive, affective, and behavioral aspects of the study offers essential insights for designing targeted educational and awareness campaigns tailored to specific age groups. Likewise, recognizing the influence of working status on knowledge, attitudes, and readiness provides a foundation for developing industry-specific strategies that promote sustainable practices within various occupational backgrounds.

The survey also revealed key aspects of social acceptance for ELV recycling, identifying specific challenges to adoption. These challenges include a lack of awareness about recycling processes, limited access to recycling facilities, and misconceptions about the environmental impact of ELVs. Addressing these issues through targeted educational initiatives can significantly improve public readiness for ELV recycling. Comparing our findings with studies from other countries shows that successful ELV recycling programs often have robust regulatory frameworks, widespread public awareness campaigns, and efficient recycling infrastructures. These international best practices can guide local policymakers in developing strategies that enhance ELV recycling adoption in Malaysia.

6. Conclusions

This study offers key information on demographic characteristics and the levels of knowledge, attitude, and readiness related to ELV management practices in Malaysia, highlighting significant variations between different working statuses and age groups. It identifies the challenges in adopting ELV management practices in Malaysia, such as limited awareness of sustainability, cultural differences in environmental attitudes, resource constraints, and policy issues. Comparisons with other regional studies place Malaysia within a broader sustainability discourse, suggesting the potential to learn from global practices.

The research emphasizes the importance of demographic factors in shaping environmental perspectives and preparedness. Tailored educational and awareness initiatives are crucial for different age groups, and industry-specific strategies are needed to promote sustainability in various occupational fields. The study findings are vital for policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders, guiding informed decisions for a sustainable future. It underscores the importance of environmental education and the integration of sustainability principles into curricula and professional development. In general, the study provides a foundation for advancing environmental sustainability in Malaysia, contributing to the global sustainability dialogue, and providing information for other countries.