London: The Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) has agreed to support and assist Malaysia in exploring and studying the use of nuclear energy, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah, who also serves as the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, discussed this collaboration during his meeting with IEA Executive Director Dr. Fatih Birol. The discussion took place on the sidelines of the plenary session of the Summit of the Future of Energy Security at Lancaster House.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadillah emphasized the global trend of countries transitioning to nuclear energy as a cleaner, more secure, and stable energy source. He highlighted the importance of IEA’s technical support and advice in developing Malaysia’s energy policies and strategies. He noted that the implementation of nuclear energy policies could take 10 to 15 years.

Fadillah also mentioned Malaysia’s commitment to increasing its renewable energy capacity to 70 percent by 2050, as part of securing domestic energy supply. He proposed focusing on the Electricity Supply and Tariff Development, Implementation, and Planning Committee, which involves collaboration across various agencies and ministries, to achieve this target.

Furthermore, Fadillah reiterated Malaysia’s dedication, as the ASEAN chair, to establishing an energy grid aimed at ensuring energy security and resilience across the region. He highlighted the importance of regional connectivity in enhancing mutual support among ASEAN countries.