Latest news with #MinistryofEnergyTransitionandWaterTransformation
The Sun
a day ago
- Business
- The Sun
Balancing innovation and responsibility
MALAYSIA is racing toward a digital future – one powered by a booming data centre industry projected to consume over 20 GW of electricity by 2040, as forecast by the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (Petra). This explosive growth is unlocking vast economic potential but also highlighting the way that Malaysia must balance the demands of a thriving digital economy with the environmental challenges it brings. According to Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong, Malaysia's data centre industry has witnessed substantial growth, with investments totalling RM184.7 billion from 2021 to December 2024 thanks to the increasing demand for cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital services. Our proximity to Singapore, which imposed a moratorium on new data centres due to resource constraints, has further enhanced Malaysia's appeal. Local communities, particularly in Johor and Selangor, are seeing new employment opportunities and infrastructure development as global players establish operations in these regions. Reuters reported that the investment made by one of the world's largest technology companies in Malaysia is expected to generate approximately US$10.9 billion in new revenues over the next four years and create more than 37,000 jobs, demonstrating the sector's potential to drive national growth. The economic benefits are clear. Faced with significant opportunities for growth, it's all the more important that we carefully consider our responsibilities to the wider community, and the impacts on the places we live and work. The impact that data centres pose to the environment needs to be carefully managed. Malaysia's Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation has projected that electricity demand from data centres, which require continuous power and extensive cooling systems, will reach 7.7 GW by 2030 and could surge to 20.9 GW by 2040. To mitigate these issues, the government has implemented several forward-looking initiatives. The National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), introduced by the Ministry of Economy, aims to achieve 70% renewable energy capacity by 2050, an ambitious leap from the current 25%. Additionally, the Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS) allows data centre operators to source energy directly from green power producers, bypassing the national grid. The significant amount of water required to cool data centres have also raised alarms. The National Water Services Commission (Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara/SPAN) warns that unchecked water usage by data centres could contribute to a water crisis. In response, several strategies have been adopted to manage water consumption. Water Usage Effectiveness metrics help track and promote efficient water management practices within data centres while companies have collaborated with state-owned entities to develop recycled water supply schemes, reducing reliance on potable water. There is also growing interest in alternative cooling technologies, including immersion cooling, which can significantly lower both water and energy consumption. These are important strategies, and it is critical that we continue to build on this work to ensure that we are balancing our economic growth with the urgent need for environmental stewardship. We know that collaboration between public and private sectors is an essential part of ensuring responsible growth of any sector, so it's great to see that the government has taken a proactive stance in regulating and guiding the development of data centres. The Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry's guidelines outline best practices for energy and water efficiency, safety, scalability, and the adoption of smart technologies. Environmental Impact Assessments are mandatory for projects with significant ecological implications to ensure new data centres consider and mitigate environmental impacts. Government incentives, including potential tax breaks, also encourage green practices such as renewable energy integration, advanced cooling systems, and efficient water usage. Beyond government action, industry stakeholders are actively contributing to responsible practices within the data centre ecosystem. The YTL Group 2024 Sustainability Report highlighted that YTL Green Data Centre Park in Johor integrates advanced technologies and energy-efficient designs including solar-powered infrastructure, advanced cooling systems, and rainwater harvesting systems to minimise environmental impact while ensuring high performance. With an expected capacity of 500MW, the park stands as a regional benchmark for balancing technological advancement with environmental responsibility. We have also seen leading global data centre providers focusing on energy efficiency to meet their carbon neutrality goals and investing in rooftop solar panels and virtual power purchase agreements for solar farms. Addressing the dual priorities of economic development and environmental sustainability requires a multi-pronged approach. One potential solution is the development of responsible data centre certification programmes. By creating a national certification that evaluates facilities on their energy efficiency, water usage, and carbon emissions, the government can incentivise more sustainable choices. Another opportunity lies in regional collaboration, where Southeast Asian nations work together to share technologies, regulatory best practices, and renewable energy resources. Investment in research and development is also crucial. Government grants and private sector initiatives can support the creation of advanced cooling systems, AI-driven energy management, and water recycling innovations tailored to Malaysia's tropical climate. Lastly, transparent reporting and environmental accountability must be prioritised to ensure measurable progress and public trust. Malaysia stands at a pivotal crossroads: the path forward must blend innovation with responsibility. By fostering collaboration across government, industry, and academia, Malaysia can lead Southeast Asia not just in digital capability, but in responsible digital leadership. Achieving this vision will require actionable policies, measurable standards, transparent reporting, and shared accountability.
Barnama
7 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
DPM Fadillah Meets With Uzbekistan Deputy Prime Minister, Energy Minister
The meeting was held during his official working visit to the republic. Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, was accompanied by Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Mohamad Alamin, Malaysian Ambassador to Uzbekistan Ilham Tuah Illias, and Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, Mareena Mahpudz. Fadillah spent about 30 minutes in the meeting with Kucharov, who is also Uzbekistan's Minister of Economy and Finance, discussing several high potential sectors for cooperation, such as energy, tourism, and education. He also held discussions with Mirzamakhmudov at the Ministry of Energy. In addition to exploring the potential for cooperation in the development of smart grid systems and expressing a desire to strengthen the exchange of expertise and technical training, both parties reiterated their intention to enhance collaboration in these areas.
The Sun
23-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Malaysia showcases public sector reforms at UN Forum 2025
SAMARKAND: Malaysia continues to strengthen its public sector to meet the evolving needs of its people while contributing meaningfully to the Sustainable Development Goals. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said under the Tenth Malaysia Plan (2011–2015), Malaysia achieved major strides in digitalising public service delivery. He noted that over 10,000 government services, accounting for 77 per cent, were made available online, greatly enhancing access and convenience for citizens. 'We reduced licensing burdens at both federal and local levels by nearly 60 per cent and saved over RM9 billion through value management efforts and the abolition of more than 38,000 redundant positions, underscoring our commitment to prudent governance and efficient service delivery,' he said in his speech at the United Nations Public Service Forum 2025 here today. Fadillah said that one of the key pillars of the civil service's transformation was the adoption of H.E.M.A.T -an acronym made up of five core values, which Hijrah Tatakelola (Governance Transformation), Empati Rakyat (Empathy for the People), Minda Pekin (Progressive Mindset), Apresiasi Inovasi (Appreciation of Innovation), and Tadbir Urus Telus (Transparent Governance) – in its daily operations.. 'Introduced by the Director-General of Public Service, H.E.M.A.T encapsulates the spirit of responsible leadership and a renewed commitment to quality service delivery,' he added. Complementing this, the Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, has launched a comprehensive Public Service Reform Agenda focused on value-based governance, human capital development, organisational strengthening, service delivery, and public-private sector collaboration. 'These reforms are supported by the Associated and Integrated Strategy, which ensures technology and data are embedded in governance transformation,' he said. Fadillah said Malaysia's commitment to a sustainable future is further demonstrated through the establishment of the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), which is currently under his purview. 'This reflects the Government's strategic decision to align critical public utilities with climate action, technological innovation, and inclusive development. 'PETRA is tasked with transforming our energy and water governance models. It is leading efforts to future-proof the electricity grid, promote renewable energy adoption, particularly solar and hydropower, to enhance energy efficiency, and modernise water resource management. 'It also seeks to ensure that infrastructure planning integrates sustainability and equitable access at its core,' he said. At the same time, Fadillah stressed that the welfare and professionalism of Malaysian civil servants remain a priority. 'Our newly introduced Public Service Remuneration System, effective December 2024, reflected this focus. 'It embeds performance-based rewards, phased salary adjustments, and clear career pathways aligned with the MADANI vision to foster a just, inclusive, and high-performing society,' he added. The United Nations Public Service Forum 2025 runs until June 25.
The Sun
22-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
New electricity tariff reflects energy reform, says Fahmi
KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the new electricity tariff schedule starting July 1 is a clear reflection of the major reforms being undertaken by the government, particularly in the national energy sector, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Fahmi, who is also the MADANI Government spokesperson, said the initiative aligns with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which aims to increase the use of renewable energy (RE) and reduce carbon emissions by 2050. 'Under the new tariff schedule, 85 per cent of domestic consumers or account holders are expected to enjoy the same, or even lower, electricity rates starting July 1, 2025, provided their monthly usage does not exceed 1,000 kilowatt hours,' he said. 'This is one of the key reforms being advanced in a coordinated manner by the government, together with the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), the Energy Commission (ST), and Tenaga Nasional Berhad. It demonstrates that efforts to implement renewal or reform can still deliver tangible benefits to the people,' he said. Fahmi said this to reporters at the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya's Kita MADANI Carnival at IWK Eco Park, Pantai Dalam, here today. Also present was Information Department director-general Julina Johan. On Friday (June 20), the ST announced that more than 23.6 million domestic users in Peninsular Malaysia will benefit from fairer and more progressive electricity rates due to the newly approved electricity tariff schedule approved by the government. ST, in a statement, said that this tariff determination will take effect from July 1, 2025, to Dec 31, 2027, under the Incentive-Based Regulation (IBR) framework, in line with the provisions of Section 26, Electricity Supply Act 1990. It said that the electricity tariff changes for the Regulatory Period 4 (RP4) involve the restructuring of the following three components, namely the average base tariff rate; the new tariff schedule; and the fuel cost adjustment mechanism. The Average Base Tariff Rate for the RP4 period has been set at 45.40 sen/kWh, slightly lower than the 45.62 sen/kWh approved in December 2024 - reflecting an overall reduction of up to 19 per cent in the average electricity tariff compared with RP3. Earlier, Fahmi, who is also the Member of Parliament for Lembah Pantai, officiated the Kita MADANI Carnival, which aims to bring the community closer to government services through a casual, informative programme that highlights current issues, policies, and initiatives in line with the Malaysia MADANI concept. The programme, among other things, featured Rahmah MADANI Sale and Agro MADANI sale, sports competitions for children, as well as exhibitions involving 21 government agencies, including counters for traffic summons payments and driving licence renewals.
The Sun
22-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
New electricity tariff reflects major reform in national energy sector
KUALA LUMPUR: The implementation of the new electricity tariff schedule starting July 1 is a clear reflection of the major reforms being undertaken by the government, particularly in the national energy sector, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Fahmi, who is also the MADANI Government spokesperson, said the initiative aligns with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which aims to increase the use of renewable energy (RE) and reduce carbon emissions by 2050. 'Under the new tariff schedule, 85 per cent of domestic consumers or account holders are expected to enjoy the same, or even lower, electricity rates starting July 1, 2025, provided their monthly usage does not exceed 1,000 kilowatt hours,' he said. 'This is one of the key reforms being advanced in a coordinated manner by the government, together with the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), the Energy Commission (ST), and Tenaga Nasional Berhad. It demonstrates that efforts to implement renewal or reform can still deliver tangible benefits to the people,' he said. Fahmi said this to reporters at the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya's Kita MADANI Carnival at IWK Eco Park, Pantai Dalam, here today. Also present was Information Department director-general Julina Johan. On Friday (June 20), the ST announced that more than 23.6 million domestic users in Peninsular Malaysia will benefit from fairer and more progressive electricity rates due to the newly approved electricity tariff schedule approved by the government. ST, in a statement, said that this tariff determination will take effect from July 1, 2025, to Dec 31, 2027, under the Incentive-Based Regulation (IBR) framework, in line with the provisions of Section 26, Electricity Supply Act 1990. It said that the electricity tariff changes for the Regulatory Period 4 (RP4) involve the restructuring of the following three components, namely the average base tariff rate; the new tariff schedule; and the fuel cost adjustment mechanism. The Average Base Tariff Rate for the RP4 period has been set at 45.40 sen/kWh, slightly lower than the 45.62 sen/kWh approved in December 2024 - reflecting an overall reduction of up to 19 per cent in the average electricity tariff compared with RP3. Earlier, Fahmi, who is also the Member of Parliament for Lembah Pantai, officiated the Kita MADANI Carnival, which aims to bring the community closer to government services through a casual, informative programme that highlights current issues, policies, and initiatives in line with the Malaysia MADANI concept. The programme, among other things, featured Rahmah MADANI Sale and Agro MADANI sale, sports competitions for children, as well as exhibitions involving 21 government agencies, including counters for traffic summons payments and driving licence renewals.
