Letter to editor

KHAZANAH Nasional recently announced a RM5.1 billion profit from its operations for 2024. The biggest contributor was Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB), a national unity outfit, whose role in Malaysia’s economy and nation-building is often under-appreciated.

Most people see TNB as just an electricity provider but its impact goes far beyond keeping the lights on in our homes and businesses. TNB plays a crucial role in Malaysia’s economy, supporting national development in ways that often go unnoticed.

Based on publicly available data, TNB paid RM18.21 bil in dividends to its shareholders between 2018 and 2023.

These shareholders include Malaysia’s largest government-linked investment companies (GLICs) like the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB) and the Retirement Fund Inc (KWAP) which manage the retirement savings and investments of about 33 million Malaysians.

The dividends from TNB directly contribute to the financial security of every ordinary Malaysian.

When TNB performs well, it strengthens the funds that support retirees, workers and key national development programmes. Its financial success is not just about corporate growth – it ensures the well-being of Malaysians who rely on these funds for their future.

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Beyond corporate growth

Khazanah has announced that for 2024, TNB was its largest source of returns, reinforcing how important the national power company is to Malaysia’s financial health. Sovereign wealth funds like Khazanah rely on strong, stable contributors to balance their investment risks.

TNB provides that stability. While Khazanah has a diversified portfolio, it is clear that TNB remains one of its most valuable assets. The company’s ability to generate consistent returns allows Khazanah to invest in other high-growth areas while ensuring steady financial inflows to the nation.

Beyond its financial contributions, TNB is leading efforts to modernise Malaysia’s energy sector. It is investing in renewable energy, smart grids and digital infrastructure to ensure that the country remains competitive in the global energy landscape.

Its role is not just about meeting today’s energy needs but ensuring a secure and sustainable future for the next generation.

Yet, despite its immense contributions, TNB’s role in nation-building is rarely acknowledged. Malaysians need to appreciate that TNB is more than just a public listed company (PLC) that supplies electricity to our homes and businesses but a key pillar of Malaysia’s progress.

Its contributions to national funds, economic resilience and future energy security make it one of the country’s most important assets.

Khazanah’s latest results are a timely reminder of how central TNB is to Malaysia’s financial strength. As Malaysia moves forward, policymakers and the public must recognise and protect key institutions like TNB.

This is not just about keeping the lights on. It is about powering the nation’s growth, stability and future altogether. – Feb 27, 2025

Nur Ana
Kota Damansara

The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.

The post From a layperson’s lenses: Like it or not, TNB is the unsung hero behind Malaysia’s growth first appeared on Focus Malaysia.