Kuala Lumpur: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has highlighted the potential of nuclear power, specifically small modular reactors, as a viable option to enhance energy security and aid ASEAN’s transition towards a low-carbon energy future. Fadillah, who also serves as the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), emphasized Malaysia’s exploration of nuclear energy as part of its long-term strategy to ensure energy security, affordability, and sustainability.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadillah made these remarks during his keynote address at the ASEAN-Korea Sustainable Nuclear Energy Cooperation Forum, which took place alongside the 25th ASEAN Energy Business Forum. He underscored the importance of adhering to international best practices and the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) guidelines in developing the necessary institutional, technical, and human resource foundations for nuclear energy development in Malaysia. Collaborative efforts with South Korea and ASEAN partners are deemed invaluable for this endeavor.

South Korea’s advanced nuclear technology and safety expertise, combined with ASEAN’s increasing energy demands, create a foundation for mutual learning, technology exchange, and capacity building. Ambassador of South Korea to Malaysia, Yeo Seungbae, pointed out that rapid urbanization and population growth have made ASEAN one of the fastest-growing regions for electricity demand. Citing the ASEAN Centre of Energy’s (ACE) projections, Yeo mentioned that the region is expected to install around 5.2 gigawatts of nuclear power generation capacity by 2050.

Yeo highlighted Malaysia’s proactive steps towards nuclear energy production, referencing the comprehensive clean feasibility study assessing nuclear power as a stable and reliable electricity source. The 13th Malaysia Plan reflects the country’s preparatory steps to incorporate nuclear energy into its power mix by 2031. He noted South Korea’s role in supporting ASEAN’s nuclear initiatives, attributing it to the nation’s successful track record in safety and cost-effectiveness in nuclear operations.

Currently, South Korea operates 26 nuclear reactors, supplying approximately 30 percent of the country’s electricity and positioning it as a leading nation in nuclear power.