Kuala lumpur: Malaysia is considering nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy strategy, with the final decision on proceeding with nuclear power generation set to be made after 2030, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah emphasized that the country has not yet committed to building a nuclear power plant but has set up a dedicated nuclear power organization (NPO) to explore necessary frameworks, including international treaties, local regulations, and human capital needs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadillah, who also serves as the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, stated that public acceptance is crucial for the implementation of nuclear energy in Malaysia. Safety, social well-being, and environmental concerns need thorough evaluation before any decision is finalized. He made these remarks during a luncheon talk titled ‘Driving the Green Energy Transition,’ organized by MBSB Research, part of MBSB Investment Bank.
Fadillah highlighted that Malaysia is currently in the analysis and preparedness phase of its nuclear initiative. The country is collaborating with international partners such as France, Russia, the United States, South Korea, and China to explore technology options and ensure regulatory compliance.
He also noted that Malaysian talent in nuclear technology is already present abroad, with several Malaysians working in nuclear plants overseas. If Malaysia proceeds with nuclear energy, these experts will be brought back to support its implementation. Local institutions like Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia are training students in nuclear-related fields to prepare for potential future adoption of nuclear energy.
During the talk, Fadillah explained that the consideration of nuclear energy is part of a broader strategy to secure long-term baseload power as Malaysia phases out coal and increases the use of renewable energy, which is inherently intermittent. He emphasized the need for firm energy sources to meet the anticipated rise in power demand from sectors like data centers, electrification, and advanced manufacturing.
Fadillah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to avoiding new coal-fired power plants, focusing instead on liquefied natural gas and renewables for the near-term energy mix.