SIMANGGANG: Malaysia needs to diversify its energy sources to ensure long-term energy security amid global uncertainties and climate challenges.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof said the country must explore a wider range of energy options due to disruptions in global supply and increasingly unpredictable weather conditions.
He said reliance on existing sources such as hydropower and gas alone is no longer sufficient to meet future demand.
“We are now at the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Dam, and the water reservoir here has been receding due to a lack of rainfall over the past few days, which has affected water levels for power generation.
“Hence, we need to look into other options such as solar energy, biofuels, biomass, wind, and others. We need to have a good energy mix.
“Whenever there are disruptions in global energy supply, having a diversified energy mix will ensure that our people and industries can continue to access affordable energy.
“That is what we are aiming for in the future, while at the same time ensuring environmental sustainability,” he said when speaking to the media during his visit to the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Dam, here today (Apr 12).
The visit is part of the PETRA Squad Sarawak Zone 2026 tour series, held from April 12 to 13, reflecting the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the national energy transition agenda in a strategic, sustainable, and high-impact manner.
Fadillah said Sarawak continues to play a key role as a renewable energy hub, leveraging its strengths in hydropower while expanding into other clean energy technologies.
He noted that the Batang Ai Hydroelectric Dam, which has been in operation for over 40 years, is expected to have its lifespan extended by another 30 years.
“This demonstrates that the development here is sustainable, not only in delivering green energy but also in contributing to Sarawak’s growth,” he said.
Photos: Alverdtekoster Anyap
