Malaysia Adopts Integrated Water-energy Approach For Sustainable Growth

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is adopting the Regenerative Water-Energy Nexus approach, which integrates water and energy systems to strengthen national resilience, optimise resources and drive sustainable growth.

Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad said the integrated framework combines efforts to strengthen water resource security and productivity with the transition to sustainable energy.

“Through the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), Malaysia continues to expand clean energy use, strengthen energy security and accelerate high-value economic growth.

“When combined with efforts to strengthen water security and productivity, this approach forms a Regenerative Water-Energy Nexus, an integrated framework that connects water and energy systems to enhance resilience, regenerate value and support sustainable growth for the well-being of future generations,” he said.

He said this when delivering the keynote address at the launch of Sustainability Environment Asia (SEA) 2026 here today.

Abdul Rahman said the integrated approach was anchored on three interrelated national priorities, starting with efforts to establish a strong and sustainable foundation for national water security.

He said the other priorities involved the implementation of the Water Sector Transformation Roadmap 2040 (AIR 2040) and the development of the Water Reclamation Policy.

Abdul Rahman said the country’s future competitiveness would depend on its ability to use resources wisely, recover value and drive continuous innovation.

“The question is no longer just how to produce more, but how to create greater value from every unit of energy, every drop of water and every resource we have,” he said.

Meanwhile, Derrisen Sdn Bhd Project director Karen Goi said SEA, established in 2023, aimed to serve as a regional catalyst for a sustainable future while highlighting innovation opportunities and business returns through green applications and the green economy.

“SEA will continue to work with all stakeholders in this important mission to reimagine and co-create growth opportunities,” she said, noting that the fourth edition of the exhibition also welcomed delegations from Taiwan, India and the Philippines.

--BERNAMA