LIMA, Aug 15 — Malaysia is expected to attract new investments in the energy sector from Singapore and Vietnam, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Fadillah, who is also energy transition and water transformation minister, said the potential investments will be discussed in detail during courtesy calls with Singapore Senior Trade and Industry and Culture, Community and Youth Minister Low Yen Ling dan Vietnam Deputy Industry and Trade Minister Nguyen Hoang Long later today.
“I think the minister from Singapore intends to discuss extending the (renewable energy import from Malaysia) agreement as the expiry date is near,” he said.
The deputy minister said Malaysia is prepared to export an additional 100MW of power in the event Singapore’s energy supply deal with Laos falls through.
“I will also discuss focusing on the Asean Power Grid initiative next year with the ministers,” he told the media during his visit to Peru for the two-day Energy Ministers’ Meeting under the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.
The Asean Power Grid aims to improve energy connectivity among members.
The grid focuses on integrating the electricity grids of Asean nations to enhance energy security, promote efficient energy use, and support the development of a regional electricity market.
The goal is to facilitate cross-border electricity trade and ensure a more reliable and sustainable energy supply within the region.
Fadillah said Asean members can assist each other with power needs.
“This is one of the issues I intend to discuss with our Asean partners,” he said.
Meanwhile, Fadillah discussed possible investments in Vietnam, which has abundant wind power resources.
He said Petronas and Tenaga Nasional Bhd are keen to invest in Vietnam’s energy sector.
“I will discuss the possibility of an undersea (power) cable from Vietnam to Kota Bahru, Kelantan. This is not only for Malaysia, but the cable can be used to supply power to Singapore and other Asean countries,” he added.
Fadillah is scheduled for courtesy calls with Brunei’s Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Defence Minister II Pehin Halbi, and Japan Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Nobuhiro Yoshida.
He will also attend the Ministers’ Lunch hosted by Peru’s Energy and Mines Ministry.
— Bernama
