Malaysia Calls on ASEAN to Prioritize Nuclear Energy for Regional Energy Transition

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called on ASEAN countries at a regional energy conference not to overlook nuclear energy in the process of energy transition. He pointed out that as the region seeks stable, economical, and reliable energy supplies, nuclear energy deserves greater attention. Currently, although ASEAN member states are actively developing renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, the focus on nuclear energy is notably insufficient, which is considered a regret. Malaysia has sufficient management experience and technical capabilities to explore options that can contribute to common energy goals.

Prime Minister Anwar emphasized that nuclear energy can play a key role in supporting the objectives of the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation, especially as countries strive to balance energy security with emission reduction. He stated that energy transition is not an overnight process and requires comprehensive consideration of factors such as reliability, affordability, and sustainability. As the current global energy crisis becomes increasingly severe, ASEAN has begun to pay more attention to alternative energy sources, but nuclear energy has been relatively neglected, which is detrimental to achieving long-term energy goals.

Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap is based on three pillars: ensuring stable energy supply, leveraging energy as a driver of economic growth, and reducing emissions while protecting natural ecosystems. Prime Minister Anwar believes that energy transition requires a balanced approach that takes all factors into full consideration. He emphasized that decisions made in these critical years will have far-reaching impacts and determine the direction of development for decades to come.

Beyond the technical aspects, the Malaysian Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of human care and social justice in the energy transition process. He called on ASEAN countries to strengthen collective action and close cooperation to jointly address future challenges, ensuring that the core goal of energy transition is to improve the well-being of the people. In his view, any change that comes at the expense of social interests cannot be considered true progress, but rather an injustice.

Malaysia is committed to achieving its long-term energy goals and will ensure that all benefits of the energy transition are effectively delivered to the public. Prime Minister Anwar stated that only in this way can sustainable development and shared prosperity be truly realized.