Solar Energy A Major Alternative For Power Generation Amid West Asia Conflict - Citizens International

By Nur Athirah Mohd Shaharuddin

KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 (Bernama) -- Solar energy has become an important electricity generation alternative to replace oil, gas, and coal which are in short supply due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, according to non-governmental organisation (NGO) Citizens International.

Its executive director, Imran Muhammad Rasid, said solar energy would reduce the dependence on fossil fuels for electricity generation, while at the same time conserving these resources.

“Malaysia needs to start thinking more seriously about the use of more sustainable energy such as solar and other renewable sources, especially amid the increasingly challenging situation.

“We need to reassess the available options for generating electricity in this country. The coal we use is also imported, and if we continue to rely on it, import costs will increase. This will put pressure on electricity prices,” he said during the Ruang Bicara programme aired on Bernama TV tonight.

Citizens International is an NGO committed to the cause of peaceful coexistence and global cooperation, addressing global disparities and injustices, resisting all forms of oppression, and promoting inclusive multilateralism for a sustainable planet

Imran said that solar energy production in Cuba, for example, has risen following restrictions on oil imports into the country following the ongoing geopolitical conflict.

He also praised the government for undertaking a temporary adjustment of the monthly Budi MADANI RON95 (BUDI95) quota, describing it as a strategic effort to manage subsidy pressure following the surge in global oil prices caused by the ongoing West Asia conflict.

However, he said that the long-term solution is to restructure fuel subsidies so that they are more targeted towards those who truly need them.

“We need to understand that fuel usage among the public varies according to income levels. Middle- and upper-income groups typically use larger vehicles and generally consume more fuel.

“On the other hand, the lower-income group does not necessarily use large amounts of fuel, and therefore they should be given more targeted protection, especially in the current situation,” he said.

Imran also suggested that the government conduct a comprehensive assessment to identify the sectors and industries most affected, as the impact of the crisis is not evenly distributed although all sectors are affected.

Certain key sectors should be given appropriate attention and assistance by the government, he said.

He also said that in the long term, the government needs to reassess the country’s dependence on food imports and strengthen domestic production capacity.

“Although imports are important, at the same time we need to have a safety net to ensure that the country’s food sector is not overly dependent on external imports,” he said.

-- BERNAMA