Malaysia is set to establish a task force with Laos aimed at enhancing cooperation in the energy sector, as announced by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. The initiative was one of the key topics discussed during a bilateral meeting with Laos Energy and Mines Minister Phoxay Sayasone.
Additionally, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that the Lao-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore Power Integration Project (LTMS-PIP) has now entered its second phase, which will run from 2024 to 2026, allowing Malaysia to supply up to 100MW of electricity to Singapore. He emphasised the reciprocity aspect of the LTMS-PIP, where participating countries can support one another during power shortages, particularly if Laos encounters insufficient power supply during dry seasons due to low water levels in its hydropower dams.
Fadillah, who also serves as the energy transition and water transformation minister, revealed that the task force will investigate various aspects of cooperation, including increasing the power supply from Laos to Malaysia and identifying investment opportunities for Malaysian players in Laos’ energy generation sector.
Regarding the 42nd AMEM, Fadillah, who is also the vice-chairman of AMEM, affirmed that ASEAN members remain committed to their close collaboration, including efforts to strengthen the ASEAN Power Grid (APG). He revealed that the ASEAN Centre for Energy has been tasked with conducting a detailed study within three months, which will lead to a proposal for the senior officials’ meeting outlining the guidance and direction necessary to finalise the APG next year.
Fadillah expressed optimism that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding cooperation in the energy sector could be finalised by next year, coinciding with Malaysia’s assumption of the ASEAN chair. “If all the terms (of the MOU) can be agreed upon, the agreement will benefit both countries,” he stated during a press conference.
The bilateral meeting took place alongside the two-day 42nd ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM).
Moreover, Fadillah mentioned that discussions at AMEM included the interest of the ASEAN Development Bank and the World Bank in collaborating to advance green energy initiatives within ASEAN.
“What is the (implementation) process in terms of finance, governance and legislation concerning the APG, including inter-cross border transactions and regulations?” he queried.
