Getting nuclear power into energy mix inevitable, Malaysia lays the groundwork

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is actively preparing for the possibility of incorporating nuclear energy into its energy mix, although it may not happen in the near future. The key question is whether private companies or state-run energy companies such as Petronas or Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) will lead this potential civil nuclear project.

The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, which has caused instability in the Middle East and globally, has led Malaysia to explore alternative energy options, including nuclear applications. Last week, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) discussed workforce development strategies for nuclear energy at a national workshop in Malaysia.

In March, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof revealed that Malaysia had conducted a comprehensive assessment of its potential nuclear energy program, covering various aspects including policy development, regulatory frameworks, and human capital development. The Malaysian government, through the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), is conducting a structured exploration of nuclear energy for electricity generation, with PETRA leading key initiatives.

Mosti Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang announced the launch of the National Nuclear Technology Policy (DTNN) 2030 to promote peaceful uses of nuclear technology. A pre-feasibility study commissioned by the government found promising potential for Malaysia to adopt nuclear energy as a clean, stable, and reliable energy source for long-term security.

Shan Saeed, chief economist at Juwai IQI, believes Malaysia's evaluation of civil nuclear energy is both strategically sound and economically timely. The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) sets an initial operational goal of 2031 for nuclear power, which must be contingent on safety, regulatory readiness, and commercial viability. Malaysia's data centre boom, driven by a surge in artificial intelligence initiatives, has significantly increased energy demand, making reliable electricity a key factor in national competitiveness.

Nuclear energy could complement Malaysia's renewable energy sources, providing firm generation during fluctuations in solar output and reducing reliance on imported fuels. Petronas and TNB, with their strong capacity and expertise, are likely to spearhead commercial initiatives in nuclear energy, with the Malaysia Programme Office for Power Electricity Reform Corporation (MyPOWER) maintaining coordination.