A pre-feasibility study on the use of nuclear energy as a primary energy source for Malaysia has been completed. Preliminary findings indicate significant potential for nuclear to provide a stable, clean and reliable supply. The study recommended the establishment of six technical task forces, with three under the Ministry of Science, Technology & Innovation (MOSTI). The other three teams fall under the purview of the Energy Transition & Water Transformation Ministry (PETRA).
“Three technical task forces have been entrusted to MOSTI, focusing on technology and industrial development, the development of nuclear competence and expertise, as well as the legal and regulatory framework,” Science Minister Chang Lih Kang told the Dewan Rakyat (House of Representatives).
He was responding to a question about whether Malaysia is ready to explore nuclear energy generation and the types of collaboration programmes established with international agencies related to nuclear science and technology. Chang said the government is exploring nuclear energy as one of the main options to ensure national energy sustainability through strategic cooperation between MOSTI and PETRA.
He added that currently, Malaysia has 323 research officers at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and 36 science officers at the Atomic Energy Department, serving in various fields of nuclear and related technologies.
Meanwhile, Chang said Malaysia signed a Civil Nuclear Strategic Partnership agreement with the US, envisaging long-term cooperation in developing Malaysia’s civil nuclear energy capabilities in a safe and responsible manner. “This is one of the measures, in addition to a network of partnerships with China and Russia, to strengthen Malaysia’s efforts in developing a well-planned nuclear energy generation programme,” he said.
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