6th International Sustainable Energy Summit 2024: A Youth's Perspective on Malaysia's Energy Future

As the youth representatives at the International Sustainable Energy Summit, we were thrilled to gain insights into Malaysia's energy landscape from industry leaders. Their presentations offered a unique blend of technical expertise and forward-thinking vision, leaving us inspired and hopeful for the nation's energy future. I was particularly grateful for the platform to speak on behalf of Malaysian youth, sharing our hopes for the future of our country's energy transition.

One of the highlights was the discussion on “new energy prospects”. The speakers explored the potential of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower, as well as emerging technologies like hydrogen and nuclear. These discussions made me realise the vast opportunities for innovation and sustainable growth in Malaysia's energy sector, especially nuclear energy as a possible future energy source.

The presentations by utility companies like TNB, SEB, and Sabah Energy provided valuable insights in the just energy transition progress from all corners of Malaysia. I was particularly impressed by their efforts to incorporate renewable energy into their portfolios and to ensure that the transition benefits all sections of society. These companies are playing a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable and equitable energy future for Malaysia.

The integration of digitisation, AI, IR4, and IoT was another key theme that exposed us to how different industries intersect. These technologies have the potential to revolutionise the energy industry by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enabling more sustainable practices. I was particularly interested in learning about how these technologies can contribute to a just transition by ensuring that everyone benefits from the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Beyond the formal presentations, I had the opportunity to engage with industry leaders from various backgrounds, including professors, agency representatives, and environmental advocates. These conversations provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Malaysia's energy sector. I was especially inspired by the work of those advocating for sustainable architecture, nuclear power, and mangrove protection.

As students of KYUEM, we believe that it is essential to engage young adults more actively in events like the International Sustainable Energy Summit. By providing opportunities for students to learn from industry leaders and network with like-minded individuals, we can inspire the next generation of energy innovators and ensure a sustainable future for Malaysia.