Energy and water key sectors in 13MP

New Straits Times

31-07-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Energy and water are key sectors in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) development agenda.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the government prioritises energy security, environmental sustainability, and affordable supply for all.
"Advancing the nation and ensuring the wellbeing of our people can no longer be achieved without focusing on the energy and water sectors. This means ensuring energy security and environmental sustainability, while also making supply accessible and affordable for all, including the rakyat.
"This is why numerous initiatives were announced earlier, particularly new approaches in the energy market using more innovative mechanisms," he said at a press conference after the tabling of the 13MP by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister said the government has also amended the Energy Commission Act 2001 to introduce the concept of energy export, which includes managing energy resources, the potential export of renewable energy, the introduction of new tariffs, and a time-of-use mechanism to encourage the rakyat to consume energy more prudently and efficiently.
"Ultimately, the goal is to transition towards more sustainable energy use to safeguard our environment," he said.
Fadillah added another significant development is the introduction of new technologies, including nuclear energy, which the government is currently studying in-depth to assess its viability for Malaysia.
"This is to ensure that we have access to clean and firm energy sources.
"At present, our renewable energy sources are primarily solar-based, but we require a more stable and cleaner energy supply. Nuclear energy is one of the options we are seriously considering," he said.
He added that in terms of water management, beyond ensuring supply security, one of the major risks that must be addressed is flooding.
"Several flood mitigation projects were announced today for states including Johor, Perak, Pahang, Sarawak, and Sabah.
"I would like to express my appreciation. Our ministry will focus on ensuring the timely implementation of these announced projects so we can mitigate the risks posed by increasingly extreme weather conditions," he said.
He also expressed his gratitude for the considerable focus on Sabah and Sarawak, particularly for major infrastructure projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway and the Trans-Borneo Highway.
"This will significantly enhance connectivity and improve basic public infrastructure in both Sarawak and Sabah," he said.