KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is actively engaged with its Asean counterparts to propel regional initiatives such as the Asean Power Grid, aimed at fortifying energy connectivity and security throughout the region.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said, through the exchange of resources, knowledge, and technology, Malaysia can surmount obstacles and expedite the adoption of green technologies in fostering a collective stride towards sustainability.
"As we recognise and acknowledge the hurdles ahead, from technological complexities to economic constraints, we remain resolute in our commitment to a flexible and versatile policy framework.
"This framework will ensure an adaptive management and seamless integration of emerging technologies, propelling us forward amidst dynamic challenges," he said in the keynote address at the Asean Green Hydrogen Conference 2024, here today.
Fadillah, who is also energy transition and water transformation minister, said Malaysia will continue to engage with its key stakeholders and maintain open dialogues to ensure the strategies remain finely attuned to both local and global trends, as well as steering the country steadfastly towards its shared vision of a sustainable future.
On the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry's side, Fadillah said it will continuously work together in proactive collaboration with an array of ministries, notably the Economy and the Investment, Trade and Industry ministries, in intricately crafting an environment conducive to nurturing the growth of the country's energy sector.
He said his ministry also extended its collaborative endeavours to embrace diverse private sectors, ranging from utilities to energy companies.
Speaking to reporters later, Fadillah said the country needs to explore alternative energy sources such as solar, hydrogen, and biomass, which are more sustainable, environmentally friendly, and affordable for consumers.
"If we look at the peninsula, the demand for energy is high but our sources may be dwindling, especially when coal is phased out, and currently, we rely on gas, but gas is becoming more expensive because we have to import it.
"However, significant potential also needs to be seen in Sarawak and Sabah, and even in Borneo itself, which is situated in the centre of Asean, presenting an opportunity to become a supplier of new renewable energy for the future," he said.
The two-day conference, which begins today, offers various programmes including panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions showcasing the latest hydrogen energy technologies from leading companies and startups. — Bernama