Dewan Negara: Dewan Negara has unanimously passed the Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) Bill 2025 today, paving the way for increased investment and economic growth. The bill was approved after its third reading by Economy Minister Datuk Seri Rafizi Ramli.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rafizi emphasized the necessity for a practical approach to implement the bill during the debate. He highlighted the importance of balancing carbon dioxide emissions to sustain economic progress and job opportunities. Rafizi stated that natural methods like planting and preserving trees are insufficient, underscoring the critical role of CCUS in the national policy for carbon capture.

Under Budget 2025, the government proposed introducing a carbon tax on the steel and energy industries by 2026. This move aims to promote the adoption of low-carbon technologies. Rafizi also mentioned that establishing a CCUS hub could enhance the potential of East Coast states, especially Kertih, as an industrial center.

He explained that CCUS could lead to the creation of new industries, attracting various sectors to these states and serving as a key driver in decarbonizing heavy industries. Rafizi added that state governments would have opportunities to collect taxes and generate employment through the establishment of CCUS facilities along the coast.

The CCUS Bill was developed with a whole-of-nation approach, and the Ministry of Economy has set up a national CCUS governance structure. This structure ensures that CCUS-related activities align with Cabinet decisions and comprises a steering committee, a technical committee, and five focus groups. These groups are led by the Economy Ministry and include members from various ministries, departments, state governments, academia, and industry players.