Nuke energy is the way forward for Malaysia: Expert
Published on: Wed, Aug 20, 2025
By: Sisca Humphrey Text Size: Dr Pa'iza also pointed to innovations developed by the Malaysian Nuclear Agency, including the G2-Tag Radig Meter, a GPS-enabled gamma radiation device and the WinDR15.3 smart radiography winder system, both aimed at strengthening radiation safety practices. Kota Kinabalu: Nuclear energy could play a pivotal role in Malaysia's future energy security if safety standards and public acceptance are prioritised, said Malaysian Nuclear Agency Senior Director (Commercialisation and Planning Programme) Dr Nor Pa'iza Mohamad Hasan. Delivering his special keynote at the Radiation Protection Conference and Workshop 2025 (RPCW25) here on Monday, Dr Pa'iza said the urgent need to balance the nation's growing energy demands with strict safety and environmental protection.
Advertisement 'Energy security means having a reliable and affordable supply of energy sources. 'To secure the future, we must expand our capacity and diversify our energy mix while safeguarding people, the environment and national stability,' he said. Malaysia currently relies on fossil fuels for about 80 per cent of its electricity generation, although this share has declined from 90 per cent in 2001. With coal plants totalling 12,200MW scheduled to phase out by 2045, Dr Pa'iza warned that Malaysia risks increasing dependence on imported natural gas if sustainable alternatives are not developed. The Government has already placed nuclear energy under review as part of the country's long-term power mix. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in tabling the 13th Malaysia Plan recently, described nuclear as a potential safe, competitive, and clean option. Globally, nuclear energy is regaining momentum, with 371.5 gigawatts of power generated from 413 reactors in 31 countries at the end of 2023. A further 62 reactors are under construction worldwide, with Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) emerging as a flexible, safer and more adaptable technology. Dr Pa'iza also pointed to innovations developed by the Malaysian Nuclear Agency, including the G2-Tag Radig Meter, a GPS-enabled gamma radiation device and the WinDR15.3 smart radiography winder system, both aimed at strengthening radiation safety practices. Citing Finland's experience as an example, he stressed the importance of strong regulation, public engagement, transparency, long-term waste management solutions and cultivating a robust safety culture. 'Radiation safety is not negotiable. To move forward, we need stronger regulatory capacity, human capital development, collaboration in research and continuous investment in safety technologies,' he said. Dr Pa'iza are urging Malaysians to prepare for the possibility of a nuclear-powered future. 'Nuclear energy enhances security, radiation safety ensures sustainability. The balance is not just possible, it is essential. The question is: are we ready for nuclear power?' he said. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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