A GOVERNMENT-commissioned pre-feasibility study on the use of nuclear energy has found promising potential for its adoption as a clean, stable, and reliable energy source for Malaysia’s long-term energy security.
Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Chang Lih Kang told the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday that initial findings recommend the formation of six technical task forces, three of which fall under MOSTI’s purview.
“These include task forces on technology and industrial development, the cultivation of nuclear competence and expertise, as well as legal and regulatory frameworks,” he said in response to a parliamentary question from Gopeng MP Tan Kar Hing, who asked about Malaysia’s readiness to pursue nuclear power generation and its collaboration with international nuclear agencies.
Chang said the government views nuclear energy as one of the strategic options to support national energy sustainability. This is being explored through close cooperation between MOSTI and the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA).
He added that Malaysia currently has a pool of 323 research officers at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and 36 science officers at the Atomic Energy Department, working across various nuclear-related fields.
To further support its ambitions, Chang revealed that Malaysia signed a Civil Nuclear Strategic Partnership agreement with the United States on 10 July. “This is one of the steps towards long-term collaboration to build civil nuclear capacity in a safe and responsible way,” he said.
He noted that Malaysia is also engaged in partnership networks with China and Russia to enhance its preparedness for a future nuclear energy programme that is safe, well-regulated and strategically planned. - July 30, 2025
