Malaysia sees hydrogen as key in National Energy Transition Roadmap, says Fadillah

KUCHING: Malaysia sees hydrogen as a key element in the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) towards clean energy sources, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

The Deputy Prime Minister said hydrogen is one of the cleanest fuel sources for energy production and will play a pivotal role in the nation's energy transition strategy.

He said flagship hydrogen projects are being implemented, such as integrated green hydrogen production facilities in Sarawak and hydrogen co-firing in power plants in peninsular Malaysia.

"Strong government support for the hydrogen economy is crucial and is evident in the recently launched Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap, which aims to position Malaysia as a leading hydrogen economy by 2050.

"The roadmap addresses key challenges across the hydrogen value chain, emphasising governance, technology commercialisation and human capital development in driving this agenda," he said.

Fadillah said this when closing the inaugural Asia Pacific green hydrogen conference here on Wednesday (June 12).

Fadillah said several government agencies were pursuing hydrogen initiatives through allocations for hydrogen fuel cell research, collaboration

on hydrogen production from biomass and water electrolysis, as well as catalyst projects for green hydrogen production and export.

He said the government would prioritise an innovation-friendly environment through financial support, incentives for hydrogen technology adoption and multiple stakeholder collaboration.

Fadillah then said that the government is also mindful of infrastructure development and investments which are crucial for widespread hydrogen adoption and utilisation.

He added that this encompasses refueling stations for hydrogen-powered vehicles and integration of hydrogen into existing industrial processes in reducing carbon emissions

Fadillah then said that Malaysia aims to be a regional leader in hydrogen technology and innovation.

"In this regard, the government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to harnessing hydrogen power for a sustainable future through investment, incentives, infrastructure development, innovation and collaboration in paving the way for a hydrogen economy which is beneficial for all of us in mitigating climate change," he said.

Fadillah also said Sarawak is taking the lead in pioneering clean energy, particularly in hydrogen innovation.

"Sarawak's proactive stance in exploring hydrogen as a potential export commodity underscores its prominence in the regional clean energy landscape.

"Collaborations with international partners in research, technology exchange, market development and subsequently in building large-scale production facilities fortify its leadership position in this space," he added.