KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia may implement nuclear energy in 10 to 15 years as a sustainable option to boost renewable energy and modernise the national grid, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof
The Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister said the country is studying nuclear power as a clean energy source in line with global trends and the country’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
“Based on studies, even if approved, it will take 10 to 15 years before nuclear can be implemented in Malaysia.
“Malaysia’s current energy mix is still heavily dependent on coal and natural gas but to ensure sustainability, affordability and energy security, we need to move towards cleaner and greener sources.
“Nuclear has been recognised internationally, including at the recent Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Energy Ministers’ meeting in Korea, as a viable option for countries to strengthen energy security,” he said during a media night organised by the Ministry on Sunday (Sept 7).
He pointed out that several Asean countries have agreed to evaluate nuclear power as an energy source.
These include Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Myanmar, which have all made basic policy decisions to consider nuclear energy as part of their future energy mix.
He said the government has tasked MyPower Corporation with assessing Malaysia’s readiness, including technology options, legal frameworks, public engagement, human capital development and collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
He said intermittent supply from renewables has highlighted the need to upgrade the national grid.
“To avoid instability like power trips, we are moving towards a smart grid system, expanding smart metering, and introducing energy storage solutions.
“This includes battery storage that could add up to 6,000MW of solar power capacity while saving RM90 million in transmission costs,” the minister said.
Through the National Energy Transformation Roadmap (NETR), he said Malaysia aims to increase renewable and clean energy to 70% of the energy mix by 2050.
He said the ministry has also launched the Malaysia Energy Literacy Programme, reaching 400,000 teachers and 4 million students to raise awareness about efficient energy use.
On water, the minister said Malaysia faces twin challenges of floods and droughts due to climate change.
The ministry is prioritising Integrated Water Resources Management to ensure sustainable supply, cleaner rivers, and better flood mitigation.
“We need stronger coordination between federal, state and district authorities to manage river flows, reduce disaster risks, and store water during monsoon seasons for use in dry periods,” he said.
He said the government recently launched the Water Transformation Plan 2040 along with national guidelines and indicators aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for clean water and sanitation.
“Our core mission is to guarantee secure, sustainable and affordable access to both energy and water for all Malaysians,” he said.
