PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is set to increase its biodiesel blend mandate from B10 to B15, starting with an initial rollout of B12, to strengthen the nation’s energy security.
Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the upgrade will not incur additional costs as it will utilise Malaysia’s existing biodiesel blending infrastructure.
Biodiesel blending mandates are policies requiring a specific percentage of renewable fuel – typically palm oil-based methyl ester – to be mixed into fossil diesel.
The mandate levels represent the percentage of biodiesel in the fuel mix.
“The ongoing B10 implementation proves that the foundation for this already exists. Therefore, the government has agreed to increase the biodiesel blend rate to B15, beginning with B12,” he said in a press briefing yesterday. His remarks came after the National Economic Action Council meeting on the same day.
He said the increased use of biodiesel is a strategic move to prolong Malaysia’s domestic diesel supply.
Meanwhile, Akmal Nasrullah said the government has laid out a biofuel transition plan that includes phased upgrades of depots to accommodate B20 and B30 blends under the upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan.
He said preparations are also underway to introduce a B30 mandate specifically for the commercial and public transport sectors. To ensure a smooth transition, Putrajaya will hold engagement sessions with the Oil Industry Technical Committee.
“The government will continue to monitor global developments, ensure our energy supply remains sufficient, and accelerate reforms towards a more resilient energy system as a national strategic necessity,” he added.
