Asserting the autonomy of individual nations in their energy transition journey, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that the global shift to sustainable energy should not be monopolized by any group of nations.
Contrary to prevailing assumptions, Anwar clarified that Asian countries are not ignorant about climate change. However, these nations reserve their right to balance their environmental commitments with their developmental and survival objectives.
Expressing his views at the Energy Asia 2023 conference, Anwar insisted, “The process of transition should be guided by collective consensus, tailored to suit the unique requirements of each country.” He asserted that Asia must proactively engage in discussions and initiatives to strike a balance between developmental rights and the goal to reduce carbon footprint.
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Though Anwar avoided naming any specific group, other speakers indicated that the UN and the EU’s efforts for global clean energy might not sufficiently consider the unique needs of developing countries. These remarks were made by distinguished speakers including Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik Tengku Aziz, Petronas president and CEO; Daniel Yergin, Vice-chairman of S&P Global; and Haitham Al Ghais, Secretary-general of OPEC.
Further, Anwar highlighted the continuing importance of hydrocarbons in Malaysia’s energy transition, specifically emphasizing the crucial role of natural gas. He revealed the Malaysian government’s plans to launch two strategic roadmaps in the upcoming months, namely the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap (HETR).
Anwar concluded, “The NETR will be synergistically complemented by the HETR, facilitating a sustainable energy future for Malaysia, underpinned by technological innovation.” This news is based on Malay Mail.
