Oil price surge shows need to explore nuclear energy, says DPM

2026-03-27 - 02:40

The 13th Malaysia Plan, tabled in July last year, outlined initiatives to explore the use of nuclear energy to ensure long-term energy sustainability. (Freepik pic) PETALING JAYA: The surge in oil prices resulting from the Middle East conflict shows that Malaysia needs to explore the potential of using nuclear energy, says deputy prime minister Fadillah Yusof. Fadillah said nuclear energy could provide a stable and low-carbon baseload for power generation, reducing the nation’s dependence on fossil fuels. The energy transition and water transformation minister also noted that the 13th Malaysia Plan, tabled in July last year, outlined initiatives to explore the use of nuclear energy to ensure long-term energy sustainability. “The need to evaluate the potential and feasibility of nuclear energy has become even more relevant in the context of changes in the global energy landscape, which is influenced by geopolitical uncertainty and instability in fuel supply and prices,” he said in a statement. Fadillah also said that regional neighbours had moved in this direction, with the Philippines hoping to generate 4,800MW in nuclear power by 2050 and Indonesia exploring the use of small modular reactors by 2030. In Malaysia, the MyPower Corporation agency is conducting a holistic study on the policies, legal frameworks, and local industry participation needed for a national nuclear energy programme. “The government’s priority is to ensure that any consideration regarding nuclear energy development is carried out thoroughly based on comprehensive technical analysis and in line with Malaysia’s development priorities and international obligations,” Fadillah said. Nuclear fuel is seen as one of the most efficient energy sources. According to the US energy department, one uranium pellet – about an inch tall – generates as much energy as 17,000 cubic feet of natural gas, 120 gallons of oil, or one tonne of coal. Malaysia’s considerations include a full-scale 2,000MW plant capable of powering two million homes, small modular reactors for industrial hubs, and floating units for islands.