Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia is fully invested in driving the green transition not only within its borders but across Southeast Asia, and will continue to advocate for sustainable policies, technologies and practices that benefit the entire region.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad stated that one of the key pillars of this transition is the renewable energy workforce. In 2019, Malaysia employed 54,300 workers in the solar industry, leading ASEAN in solar photovoltaics (PV) employment. This figure is expected to rise with the launch of the Fifth Large Scale Solar (LSS5) programme slated for 2025. Nik Nazmi emphasized the importance of a skilled workforce in supporting the growth of Malaysia’s renewable energy sector, particularly in solar and hydroelectric power, areas where the country has made significant progress.
Malaysia has established itself as a major international hub for PV component manufacturing, with six of the world’s ten largest solar PV companies operating within its borders. Positioned in the ‘sun belt’, Malaysia takes advantage of abundant solar resources, making it an ideal location for solar energy production.
The progress is supported by a clear and ambitious policy framework, particularly the implementation of the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which serves as a critical guide for Malaysia’s energy transition over the coming decades. The country’s skilled workforce in electronics and semiconductors, robust infrastructure, and reliable power supply offer a strong foundation for the global solar industry. These advantages have attracted leading international companies, reinforcing Malaysia’s role as a key player in the global renewable energy supply chain and driving innovation in solar technology.
Recognizing that it cannot achieve its green energy goals alone, Malaysia is actively engaged in regional initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) project. This project aims to enhance cross-border electricity trade and integrate renewable energy sources across Southeast Asia. By participating in the APG, Malaysia is helping to create a more interconnected and secure energy network for the entire ASEAN region, enabling the efficient sharing of renewable energy and ensuring regional energy security.
Nik Nazmi highlighted that regional integration plays a pivotal role in achieving the green energy transition and enhancing the resilience of energy systems, exemplified by Malaysia’s participation in the APG.