The possibility of nuclear power becoming a necessity in achieving the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 is not dismissed by the Malaysian Nuclear Agency (Nuklear Malaysia).
Dr. Rosli Darmawan, the director-general, acknowledged that while the National Nuclear Technology Policy (DTNN) 2030 does not explicitly mention nuclear energy, his team is prepared to explore its use for energy generation, according to Bernama.
Despite the omission in the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), statements from the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry (NRECC) and Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli suggest consideration of nuclear energy by 2050.
Dr. Rosli emphasised the current lack of alternatives, stating that achieving net-zero emissions solely through renewable energy (RE) technology on a global scale is not feasible.
He shared these views during a press conference following the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing ceremony between Nuklear Malaysia and Alam Flora Environmental Solutions Sdn Bhd (AFES) at Dewan Tun Dr Ismail, Kompleks Agensi Nuklear Malaysia.
Dr. Rosli noted that many industries are seriously contemplating nuclear energy due to the significant carbon emissions from fossil fuels like coal. However, the decision on implementation rests with the Energy Transition and Public Utilities Ministry, and the policy direction is expected in the next two to three years.
Regarding the MOU with AFES, Dr. Rosli explained that it aims to apply nuclear technology to address environmental pollution peacefully in Malaysia. The collaboration will encompass research on irradiation-pyrolysis of plastic waste, the development of nuclear technologies compatible with plastic recycling, and the establishment of a pilot-scale plant for irradiation-pyrolysis technology.
He expressed hope that the high-value fuel produced would become a new resource, indirectly contributing to the national economy.
The collaboration was formalised through the exchange of MOUs between Dr. Rosli, representing Nuklear Malaysia, and Datuk Mohd Zain Hasan, the chief executive officer of Alam Flora Sdn Bhd and director of AFES.
Mohd Zain highlighted the collaboration’s goal of leveraging advanced nuclear technology for converting used plastic waste into fuel, such as diesel, and innovatively recycling used plastic.
