Malaysia launches nuclear energy feasibility study

Following the tabling of the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026-2030) by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on 31 July, the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) announced on 2 August the launch of a feasibility study on the use of nuclear energy.

"This initiative takes into account the need to diversify energy sources, strengthen long-term energy security, support carbon emission reduction targets, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, in line with the country's climate change commitment and increasing energy demand," the ministry said.

MyPOWER Corporation, a special purpose agency under PETRA, has been given the responsibility to coordinate the preparation efforts based on guidelines recommended by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This preparatory phase is being implemented through a coordinated framework, through a technical committee mechanism across ministries and departments/agencies, to "ensure an integrated and comprehensive approach at the national level", the ministry said. Its implementation will be guided by the IAEA Milestones Approach, including aspects of the country's position, legal and regulatory framework, stakeholder engagement and human resource development.

"At this time, no decision has been made on the implementation, type of technology or capacity of the nuclear reactor to be developed," PETRA stressed. "The government's priority at this time is to ensure that any future considerations are based on comprehensive technical analysis and in line with national development priorities and comply with international obligations."

Speaking at the 5th International Green Build Conference in Petaling Jaya today, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the feasibility study will focus on regions where renewable energy deployment faces unique challenges. He noted that Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah have been identified as potential locations for nuclear power plant development.

"Sabah's energy generation is limited due to its constrained hydro and solar capacities, which must be supplemented with batteries," he was quoted as saying by The Vibes Dotcom. "We also have biomass and biogas sources, but these too are limited. We therefore need to explore other stable energy sources for both Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah."

According to Fadillah, the feasibility study will also focus on regulatory requirements, including the need to amend existing laws and related regulations, as well as on human capital development, the Bernama news agency reported. Additionally, he said the ministry will examine nuclear safety, safeguards and security, alongside efforts to engage with the public to ensure wider acceptance before any further action is taken.

“We are also working together to ensure that human capital development will be one of the area that we focus on, not only in terms of technology but also from the enforcement perspective,” he added.