KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s use of palm oil-based biodiesel extends beyond environmental sustainability, serving as a key strategy to safeguard the nation’s energy security during times of crisis, the government said.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said increasing the biodiesel blend ensures the country has an alternative fuel source should petroleum diesel supplies be disrupted.
“The implementation of biodiesel B15 is a strategic step by the government to bolster national energy security, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support the country’s sustainability agenda through the use of more sustainable alternative energy,” she told reporters after inspecting the Klang Valley Distribution Terminal (KVDT), a major hub for B15 biodiesel deployment, as quoted by Bernama.
Dr Noraini added that the government’s move to introduce B15 from 1 June aims to expand the nation’s fuel supply assurance, with palm oil-based Methyl Ester serving as an alternative that can extend the longevity of existing diesel stocks.
At the same time, she highlighted that promoting biodiesel aligns with Malaysia’s environmental, social, and governance commitments, while supporting the development of a green economy.
The implementation varies across the country. Sarawak (except Bintulu), Labuan, and Langkawi have adopted B20 blends, while other regions use B10, B12, and B15. The increase in biodiesel content also boosts local palm oil consumption without affecting commodity exports.
“The rollout of B15 is estimated to use around 0.801 million tonnes of crude palm oil annually, and it will have no impact on export markets,” Dr Noraini said.
She noted that KVDT serves as a strategic facility for petroleum storage and distribution, particularly in the Klang Valley, and is among Malaysia’s key biodiesel blending centres.
Dr Noraini added that the Malaysian biodiesel programme is supported by a strong industry network comprising 452 palm oil mills, 54 refineries, 19 biodiesel plants, and 34 biodiesel blending depots nationwide, supplying over 4,400 petrol stations.
“This comprehensive infrastructure demonstrates Malaysia’s capacity, expertise, and logistical capability to gradually and systematically increase biodiesel blends,” she said.
The country’s biodiesel programme was introduced progressively from B5 in 2011, expanded to B7 and B10, and now has advanced to B15 in line with the National Biofuel Policy, effective from June 1. — June 3, 2026