KUALA LUMPUR: The government is currently reviewing the appropriate implementation pathway to move into the next phase regarding the potential use of nuclear energy in Malaysia, says Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.
He said this follows the positive outcome of the pre-feasibility study on nuclear energy conducted from June to December 2024, which concluded that nuclear energy is technically viable and has the potential to be a suitable long-term option for the nation’s energy mix.
“The study identified 24 key findings and 22 strategic recommendations that need to be implemented to support the country’s aspiration of introducing nuclear energy into the national energy mix.
“Based on these positive results, the government is reviewing a suitable implementation pathway to proceed to the next phase, in line with international standards related to safety, security and safeguards (3S) in nuclear energy use,” he said during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat on Monday (Aug 4).
He was responding to Muhammad Ismi Mat Taib (PN-Parit), who asked whether the ministry was conducting a comprehensive study on future use of nuclear energy to meet Malaysia’s net-zero carbon emission target.
To support the next phase, Akmal Nasrullah said the government, through the ‘Malaysia Programme Office for Power Electricity Reform’ (MyPower), is planning a detailed assessment to enhance the country’s nuclear energy infrastructure preparedness.
This includes strengthening strategic cooperation, the regulatory and legal framework and reviewing site selection, technical and commercial feasibility and the industry development roadmap, he said.
“The government also plans to enhance stakeholder engagement and communication strategies, and to develop a national framework for human capital development and workforce planning,” he added.
Akmal Nasrullah said that the findings and recommendations from the assessment will serve as a critical foundation and reference for the government to make a comprehensive, data-driven and informed decision regarding the implementation of nuclear energy as part of Malaysia’s future energy planning. – Bernama
