Scaling Up Malaysia’s Homegrown Cleantech

As Malaysia works towards its net-zero emissions target by 2050, experts are calling for stronger efforts to accelerate the development and adoption of homegrown clean technologies. While the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) provides a clear framework for decarbonisation, challenges such as financing, technology deployment and commercialisation continue to hinder progress.

ASM Chief Executive Officer Puan Hazami Habib FASc, in an interview with The Edge for a special issue on green and clean technologies, highlighted the need for greater urgency in translating policy ambitions into real-world implementation. Although Malaysia has developed promising innovations through research and development, the adoption and commercialisation of local technologies remain relatively low.

Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) harnesses the ocean’s natural temperature difference to generate clean, renewable energy. Shutterstock

One example is Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), an emerging renewable energy technology ASM has identified as having significant potential in Malaysia’s tropical waters. Researchers have successfully demonstrated pilot projects, but broader deployment requires sustained funding, supportive policies and stronger industry participation.

Experts also emphasise the importance of bridging the gap between research and industry. Beyond financial investment, innovators need access to pilot projects, validation opportunities, procurement pathways, and long-term partnerships to help move technologies from laboratories to the marketplace.

As global investments in clean technology continue to grow, Malaysia has an opportunity to strengthen its innovation ecosystem, support local talent and build greater resilience through homegrown solutions. Achieving this will require coordinated action from government, industry, academia and investors to ensure that emerging technologies can scale and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s energy transition.

Read the full article on The Edge Malaysia.