SHAH ALAM, Aug 4 — Any commitment Malaysia has made towards developing nuclear energy must come with efforts to produce local experts in the field, stressed Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir.
He said that though nuclear energy is seen as among potential alternative energy sources for the long term, the government cannot rush into it without ensuring human capital development is managed holistically and in a planned manner.
“When the commitment towards nuclear energy becomes clearer, of course we must meticulously plan the need to produce sufficient experts. This includes the aspects of training, education and continuous expertise,” he said in response to Muhammad Ismi Mat Taib (PN-Parit) during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Akmal Nasrullah added that several local universities have offered courses in nuclear technology, but a more strategic approach is necessary to ensure an ecosystem of solid expertise before any large-scale implementation is executed.
“Energy development must move in line with workforce development. We cannot depend solely on foreign expertise. We even have Malaysians working on the international stage in this field, with the potential to contribute to the country when the time comes,” he said.
He added that Malaysia is still at the exploration stage to assess suitable technological choices and international standards, and initiating cooperation with nations more experienced in nuclear energy.
He emphasised that the government will prioritise safety, sustainability and human capital before making any decision.
Yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof reportedly said Malaysia does not need the consent of neighbouring countries to start a nuclear programme for renewable power, as Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam are also looking into nuclear energy as a future energy source.
However, Fadillah said the government needs public feedback to decide on nuclear energy use.
