Nuclear power a long-term option, not immediate solution, says DPM

Free Malaysia Today

3 days ago

Fadillah Yusof estimated that it would take 10 years before nuclear energy is implemented in Malaysia. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA : The government's stance on nuclear power is to treat it as a long-term option rather than an immediate solution, deputy prime minister Fadillah Yusof said today.
Citing the complexity and safety concerns associated with the technology, he said Malaysia was still in the early stages of studying its feasibility as part of the country's future energy mix.
'We are not saying that we are going ahead (with it). What has been approved is that we will consider nuclear as part of the potential energy mix,' Bernama quoted him as saying at an international energy week conference in Kuching.
Fadillah, who is minister for energy transition and water transformation, estimated that it would take Malaysia at least 10 years to implement nuclear energy.
He said extensive groundwork was being carried out, including international benchmarking and regulatory planning.
'I've visited the UK, France and Russia, and we will also be going to the US, China and South Korea. We are analysing all available technologies, including the safety and environmental implications,' he said.
Fadillah emphasised that nuclear adoption must comply with strict international processes and treaties, particularly with regard to the impact on the environment.
'Only after we sign all 18 required international treaties, and receive approval at that level, can we even begin to consider incorporating nuclear energy in our national energy supply.'
He also highlighted the importance of public acceptance, saying that without widespread support from Malaysians, the nuclear option would not proceed. 'We must engage the public and secure their buy-in,' he said.
Separately, Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg said nuclear energy was not currently relevant for the state, given its abundant and diversified renewable energy sources.
He told reporters that Sarawak had hydro, gas and solar energy, adding: 'With what we have, I don't think Sarawak needs nuclear energy.'
He said Sarawak remains focussed on becoming a renewable energy powerhouse, targeting the production of up to 15 gigawatts by 2035 through existing clean energy sources.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak was exploring energy production using hydrogen from water as a safer, cleaner and cheaper alternative to nuclear fission. 'We have the water resources to support it,' he said.