Malaysia announces decarbonization blueprint with focus on SAF

Malaysia announced the launch of the Malaysia Aviation Decarbonization Blueprint (MADB) with a four-pronged approach including the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to reduce the sector’s carbon emissions.

The MADB blueprint will work on four-pronged approach to reduce aviation emissions including aircraft technology, operational improvements, the use of SAF, and carbon offsetting –  in line with the mitigation measures established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The country’s Ministry of Transport (MOT) said in a statement that several ministries in the country will work to develop policies and support initiatives in the country.

This includes the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (MPC), which will lead the implementation of the national SAF blending mandate.

Loke Siew Fook, the country’s minister of transport Malaysia said that SAF will remain a key lever in the country’s decarbonization goals.

“Efficient airport design and operations can reduce ground emissions. Larger airports and inefficient allocation of parking bays required longer on-ground taxiing, another aspect of airports that impacts airlines is their use of and ability to supply green energy alternatives such as SAF, biodiesel and clean electricity,” he noted.

Multiple private sector as well as state owned firms have shown their willingness to invest in the development of domestic SAF industry.

Earlier last month, Malaysian energy giant Petronas’ subsidiary Petronas Research and Japanese algae cultivation firm Euglena announced a joint research agreement to develop large-scale production technology for microalgae to further produce biofuels in Malaysia.

Moreover, Malaysian integrated technical services provider Dialog Group announced plans to expand storage facilities by additional 150,000 cubic meters for renewable and petroleum products at the existing Tanjung Langsat terminal at Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia.

The terminal expansion is due to complete by 2027.

The company said that the first 100,000 cubic meters of the expanded storage has already been awarded to EcoCeres Ltd, which will use the facility to process sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The remaining 50,000 cubic metres will be awarded to third party customers.