Malaysia urges companies to go green with 'high-value economy' aim

Climate minister says upgrading grid for renewables is key to new energy plan

Malaysia's Minister of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad says the government wants to convince the private sector to see decarbonization as a long-term strategy. (Photo by Sayumi Take)

SAYUMI TAKE, Nikkei staff writer

December 10, 2023 20:30 JST

DUBAI -- The Malaysian government is calling on the private sector to view decarbonization as an essential long-term corporate strategy that will help boost economic growth while the nation shifts away from fossil fuels, its climate minister told Nikkei Asia recently.

The Southeast Asian country released its National Energy Transition Roadmap this summer, aiming to derive 70% of its energy supply from renewables by 2050, a more exacting goal than the previous 40% by 2035. The plan identifies 10 projects aimed at achieving this goal, including the construction of renewable energy zones and creating demand for biomass.