Malaysia may miss net zero target without nuclear energy
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia may fall short of achieving its net zero emissions target by 2050 if nuclear energy is excluded from its future energy mix, said Energy Transition and Water Transformation Deputy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.
Speaking at the Energy Asia 2025, Akmal described nuclear power as the big elephant in the room in the nation's energy transition strategy, stressing its importance in providing a stable baseload to replace fossil fuels as the country phases down coal, oil and gas.
"From my point of view, I think without nuclear, we may not get net zero by 2050. So bear in mind, this is something that we have to really consider," he said during a panel session.
While nuclear is not classified as renewable, Akmal said it is regarded as one of the essential categories within energy generation.
He revealed that the ministry has already begun internal scenario planning on nuclear, although the final decision would require both government and public readiness.
"Hopefully, when government decides to full-fledged going for the nuclear, not just government, the public will also be ready to face the reality that in order for us to achieve net zero by 2050, nuclear is the way to go," he added.
Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan added that Malaysia must remain open to technologies already proven globally, especially as Asean nations work together to strengthen grid connectivity and energy security.
He said Malaysia and the region should not shy away from exploring all proven technologies — including nuclear power.
"We should also look at newer technology. Newer from Malaysia's point of view, but not newer from the world's point of view. So if nuclear is on the table, we should look at it," he said.
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