Phased Shift To Clean Energy Key To Stability, Public Acceptance
PORT KLANG, April 8 (Bernama) -- The transition from conventional energy sources to cleaner alternatives such as gas and nuclear must be carried out in stages to ensure electricity supply stability and public acceptance.
Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Mohammad Yusof Apdal said said the initiative is currently at the study stage, aimed at identifying suitable alternatives to existing conventional sources, namely coal and diesel-based power generation.
He said developed countries using nuclear energy have certain advantages over Malaysia, which still relies heavily on conventional sources and hydroelectric generation, particularly amid the ongoing global energy crisis.
“There is a clear need to study and assess alternative methods such as nuclear and gas. In Sabah, gas is considered more affordable and sustainable. These studies must be conducted in stages and aligned with the level of public understanding.
“Our situation differs from that of developed nations, where nuclear energy is widely accepted. Here, perceptions vary, with many viewing it as dangerous despite its cleaner and more controlled impact,” he told reporters after launching the The Milky Way Innovation Centre in Pulau Indah here today.
Commenting on Selangor’s initiative, which is in its early stages of considering nuclear energy as a clean energy source within five years, Mohammad Yusof said the matter depends on the state’s capability.
However, he stressed that the approach must be undertaken prudently and not rushed, to avoid potential implications and public unease due to limited understanding of the technology.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in his keynote address at the Kuala Lumpur-Ankara Dialogue 2026, said Malaysia must accelerate its transition towards a long-term energy strategy that is more sustainable, diversified and cost-efficient.
He said a comprehensive shift in energy strategy is not only an environmental necessity but also critical in light of disruptions to global energy supply.
Meanwhile, The Milky Way Innovation Centre, which he launched earlier is owned by a local plant-based innovator Pure Mylk.
At the launching ceremony, Pure Mylk announced a strategic collaboration with global food processing and packaging company Tetra Pak to support local brands in developing and launching innovative plant-based functional beverages in Malaysia.
The initiative integrates Tetra Pak’s processing technology and packaging expertise at The Milky Way innovation hub, providing access to advanced research and development (R&D) capabilities, pilot-scale testing and collaborative product development support.
-- BERNAMA
