New strategy to reduce dependency on gas imports

THE Johor Green Deal aims to shift Malaysia from relying on imported gas to producing sustainable renewable energy locally.

Johor sustainability committee chairman Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad said it was important for the government to take up green initiatives to create a stronger sustainable economy for the future.

“Collaboration with academic institutions and industry players is crucial to building a sustainable economy.

“The goal is to reduce dependence on imported gas and establish Johor as a significant producer and exporter of eco-friendly energy in South-East Asia.

“This move supports Malaysia’s Green Energy Initiative and stimulates economic growth by creating jobs and boosting energy exports,” he said.

Hasni added that through partnerships between the public and private sectors, Johor was working towards a greener and more sustainable future.

A Johor Green Council was being formed, he said, adding that there were already a few things in the pipeline and Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi would announce them once they were ready.

“The Johor Green Deal provides a framework for planning the state’s environmentally friendly development.

“It considers social, economic, and environmental factors to ensure that Johor’s progress aligns with sustainability goals and tackles climate change challenges,” he said.

He said this when commenting on Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli’s statement that the country will face higher imports of gas for electricity if it doesn’t step up efforts to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy.

“We agree with the minister’s statement on this. It is shocking to learn about the extent of our dependency on imported gas and the potential consequences it may have on our economy.

“This will affect our cost of living in the future,” he said, adding that Johor had already made several plans regarding sustainable renewable energy.

BK reported Rafizi saying that Malaysia imported about 25% gas last year to meet the country’s needs due to the lack of production of natural resources such as oil and gas.