Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced today that Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) plans to start producing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2028. This initiative aims to help the aviation industry reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, reported Malaymail.
At the National Aviation Consultative Council (NACC) meeting and the launch of the Malaysian Aviation Sector Decarbonisation Roadmap (MADB), Loke stated, “Petronas will lead the production of SAF and has already begun planning and developing strategies.” He added, “Petronas has informed me that production could commence as early as 2028.”
Currently, local airlines do not use SAF in their daily operations due to its high cost, which is about three times more expensive than conventional jet fuel due to limited production and supply.
“The main challenge with SAF is its price,” Loke said. “We need to address the supply issue before we can discuss how airlines might adopt SAF. The government has not mandated its use, and our airlines have not yet adopted it.”
However, with SAF production expected to begin in 2028, Loke is hopeful that prices will decrease and become more affordable for airlines by then.
Additionally, Loke highlighted other ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions in the aviation sector. “We are exploring mechanisms such as carbon credits and improving operational efficiency. Immediate measures include better airport management and air traffic control. For instance, optimizing landing procedures can help reduce carbon emissions, though not entirely.”
Loke also introduced the MADB, which provides a framework for reducing carbon emissions in the aviation industry by 2050.
