ENERGY has a significant impact on politics. Voters have always been interested in lowering their electricity bills, but as global awareness of climate change has increased, voters and the general public should actively support clean and renewable energy sources.

Political parties must embrace renewable energy in order to address newly emerging environmental issues. Moreover, politicians should be criticised for playing politics with energy and emissions and should do more to meet the Paris Climate Agreement’s emission targets.

Climate change is an inevitable problem that must be addressed in a fair and responsible manner. Malaysia has reached a critical stage in the fight against the climate and biodiversity crises, as it increases efforts and commitments to transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy, according to Finance Minister Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. 

He stated that this implies a progressive and comprehensive transformation of the country’s economic and financial systems, in addition to sectors related to food, water, and energy, as well as essential commodities, in a sustainable, equitable, merely, and transparent way.

The high demand for energy, combined with the climate change challenges posed by carbon emissions, has compelled the government to embark on a energy generation diversification strategy that allows for greater use of renewable energy sources. 

Malaysia has a promising outlook for the adoption of renewable energy sources and exploring new frontiers are all valuable opportunities for success. New source of renewable energy will add value to the entire value chain, resulting in a plethora of national benefits. 

Renewable energy sources generate a substantial portion of the nation’s electricity. Renewable energy is gaining popularity as part of the clean energy transition, and Malaysia should seek to innovate and participate in the development of marine renewable energy sectors.

In marine areas, renewable energy sources such as wave, tidal, and ocean thermal are abundant. It has the potential to bridge the gap between economically feasible, civilised, and environmentally friendly energy to support the economic growth of Malaysia.

To ensure accountability and inclusivity, the legal framework governing energy provision must be open and accessible. The national energy policy should consolidate all policies and plans pertaining to energy production, distribution, and consumption, as well as provide insight into the nation’s GDP priorities for increasing renewable energy production.

It is crucial for the implementation of a rigorous national energy policy to ensure that energy initiatives are cohesive and comprehensive for the nation’s overall benefit, including the management of the energy paradox of shares, security, and environmental stewardship.

Due to its extensive coastline, Malaysia has a tremendous opportunity to become an influential and effective steward of marine renewable energy production, while balancing economic and environmental concerns. Renewable energy deployment will generate employment and open up new business opportunities for the industrialisation of the core network. The use of green energy has afforded Malaysia new opportunities.

The transition to renewable energy requires strong political will and effective legislation, investments, and support mechanisms facilitated by the government. Equally important is the government’s support in the form of progressive policies and forward-thinking regulatory frameworks, which will be essential to the development. This will increase public support for the cause. – November 8, 2022.

* Dr Izyan Munirah Mohd Zaideen is a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Maritime Studies, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, and Captain Mohd Faizal Ramli is an EHS marine specialist in the oil and gas sector.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.