JOHOR BARU: Malaysia is examining the role of nuclear energy as a potential option for clean, stable and competitive electricity within the nation’s future energy mix, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the government is undertaking the structured assessment following the presentation of the 13th Malaysia Plan by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently.
“The initiative takes into account the need to diversify energy sources, strengthen long-term energy security, support carbon emission reduction targets and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
“This is in line with the country’s climate change commitments and growing energy demand,” he said when officiating the 12th Asean Network of Regulatory Bodies of Atomic Energy (Aseantom) annual meeting at a hotel here on Monday (Aug 11).
He added that the government’s priority is to ensure that any future consideration is grounded in comprehensive technical analysis, aligned with national development priorities and in full compliance with international obligations.
Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, noted that the Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organisation, MyPower Corporation, has been tasked with coordinating preparatory efforts in accordance with the guidelines recommended by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
This preparatory phase is being implemented through a well-structured coordination framework, involving technical committees across ministries, departments and agencies, to ensure an integrated and comprehensive national approach, he said.
Fadillah added that the implementation will follow the IAEA guidance and approach, covering aspects such as national positioning, legal and regulatory frameworks, stakeholder engagement and human resource development.
“Through Aseantom, our regulators have worked closely with the IAEA and partners to harmonise safety standards, strengthen emergency preparedness and invest in human capital.
“These efforts ensure our policies, licensing systems and responses are transparent, accountable and globally recognised,” he said.
Fadillah also stressed that Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to the South-East Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty.
“We urge nuclear-weapon states to sign and ratify the protocol without delay,” he said, adding that a strong, enforceable nuclear-weapon-free zone remains a vital pillar of regional peace, mutual trust and long-term security.
The five-day Aseantom meeting brought together top representatives of atomic energy regulatory bodies from 10 Asean member states, along with dialogue partners such as Japan, South Korea and international organisations including the IAEA.
