Malaysia explores nuclear energy for long-term power security

LocalEnvironment
27 Mar 2026 • 11:41 AM MYT
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Malaysia is conducting a comprehensive nuclear energy feasibility study to bolster long-term energy security and support its clean energy transition.

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has initiated a comprehensive assessment of a potential nuclear energy programme to strengthen its long-term energy security.

Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof said the move is a strategic effort to support the nation’s clean energy transition.

He noted the initiative aligns with the 13th Malaysia Plan tabled last year.

“The need to evaluate the feasibility of nuclear energy is increasingly relevant amid a changing global energy landscape shaped by geopolitical uncertainties and fluctuations in fuel supply and prices,” Fadillah said in a statement.

He pointed to global tensions impacting energy markets and supply stability.

“In this context, nuclear energy offers stable, low-carbon baseload power and can reduce dependence on fossil fuels,” he added.

The study is being undertaken by MyPOWER Corporation Malaysia.

The agency has been appointed as the Nuclear Energy Programme Implementing Organisation (NEPIO).

It will coordinate preparations based on a phased approach recommended by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The assessment will cover policy, legal frameworks, project feasibility, and human capital development.

Fadillah added that several ASEAN countries are also revisiting nuclear energy for diversification.

The Philippines is targeting up to 4,800 megawatts of nuclear capacity by 2050.

Vietnam has reintroduced nuclear power into its national energy plan.

Indonesia is exploring small modular reactors with a target timeline around 2030.

Fadillah stressed that Malaysia’s priority is to ensure any future nuclear development is carefully evaluated.

He said the approach reflects the MADANI Malaysia vision for sustainable development.