The government is exploring the possibility of using thorium and other nuclear technologies as part of Malaysia’s long-term strategy to strengthen its electricity supply, with several countries expressing interest in potential cooperation.
Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Abdul Rahman Mohamad said France, the United States, Russia and China had indicated their interest in collaborating on nuclear-related technologies.
However, he stressed that no decision had been made on selecting any country or company as a strategic partner as Malaysia remains in the assessment phase.
“We are still at the study stage and are looking to work with parties that have greater expertise in this field,” he said during the Dewan Rakyat sitting.
He was responding to a question from Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man (PN-Kubang Kerian) on whether the government was examining the use of thorium to produce uranium-233 as a possible nuclear fuel source.
Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive element that can be converted into fuel for certain nuclear reactor technologies.
Rahman said MyPower Corporation, the agency responsible for coordinating electricity sector reforms and nuclear power planning, is leading the assessment of nuclear energy as part of Malaysia’s future power generation roadmap.
He added that the government would only consider developing a nuclear power facility if the technology is proven to be safe, practical, sustainable and beneficial to the country.
Malaysia currently does not have any operational nuclear power plants and continues to depend mainly on gas, coal and renewable energy sources for electricity generation.
The renewed discussion on nuclear energy comes amid concerns over rising global energy costs and geopolitical uncertainties affecting energy markets.
The Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry launched a feasibility study in August 2025 following the introduction of the 13th Malaysia Plan.
Meanwhile, Rahman said only about one per cent of the country’s identified biogas potential is currently being utilised, highlighting room for further development in renewable energy resources.
He also revealed that the government is studying the potential of geothermal energy in Ulu Slim, Perak, with exploratory drilling needed to determine the size of the resource and its commercial viability.
