KUALA LUMPUR (April 28): Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir announced on Tuesday that the government has established the Jawatankuasa Peringkat Tertinggi Biobahan Api, or high-level biofuel committee, as part of broader efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s energy security.
In a live briefing on Facebook, the economy minister said the committee was set up to coordinate the country’s biofuel agenda amid ongoing global supply chain disruptions and energy market volatility.
He said the move forms part of the government’s wider strategy to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on imported fuel.
As Malaysia remains exposed to fluctuations in global fuel prices, alternative fuel development has been an increasingly important policy focus, said Akmal.
Malaysia has historically relied on a mix of conventional and alternative energy strategies to manage supply security, including coal, natural gas, hydropower and renewable energy development. Coal and gas currently remain the dominant sources in the national electricity generation mix.
Akmal added that the committee is expected to serve as a high-level coordination platform to streamline decision-making across ministries and industries as the government evaluates how biofuel can complement existing energy sources within the country’s broader energy transition agenda.
In addition to fuel security, the government has also pushed for the production of bio-organic fertilisers as an alternative to conventional fertilisers, said Akmal, in order to reduce reliance on imports and ensure food security.
“The initiative can be further expanded through a circular economy approach in line with the 13th Malaysia Plan, where biomass, organic waste, agricultural by-products and local resources are reused as inputs for fertiliser production,” said the economy minister.
He added that it would also promote sustainable farming, minimise waste, and create new opportunities for industries.
No further details were given on who will spearhead the high-level biofuel committee and when it will begin its coordination efforts.
There was no allotted session for media queries after the live briefing ended.