- SAF Initiative: Minister Liew urges repurposing palm oil residuals for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
- Blueprint 2030: 41 initiatives aim to generate RM55.2 billion annually and create 32,000 high-tech jobs.
- Collaborative Efforts: Prof. Shamsul calls for partnerships to drive sustainable aerospace innovations.
Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong urged the palm oil industry to repurpose residuals for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). During his opening speech at the MyAero Sustainable Aviation Symposium 2024 on July 16, he emphasised the palm oil industry’s role in promoting sustainable fuels in Malaysia.
“This is a chance for Malaysian industries to connect horizontally. We can supply the global chain and innovate domestically,” said Liew. He highlighted the need for vertical integration within industries and horizontal links between sectors to shape the aviation industry’s future.
Liew referenced the Malaysia Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030. This plan includes 41 initiatives that generate RM55.2 billion annually and create 32,000 high-tech jobs by 2030. “We aim to make Malaysia a regional and global aerospace hub. This involves promoting supply chain development and using sustainable alternatives like SAF, electricity, and hydrogen-based energy,” he added.
Prof. Shamsul Kamar Abu Samah, CEO of the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (Naico), emphasised the importance of Malaysia’s industry environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework. This framework helps aerospace firms transition to sustainable practices.
“This involves developing cleaner technologies, improving fuel efficiency, and investing in sustainable manufacturing processes,” Shamsul stated. He stressed that collaboration between governments, aerospace companies, and research institutions drives innovations forward and achieves shared iESG goals while maintaining economic viability and global competitiveness.
Liew’s call for the palm oil industry to repurpose residuals for SAF marks a significant step towards sustainable fuel development. The MyAero Sustainable Aviation Symposium 2024 provided a platform for discussing such innovative ideas and highlighted the importance of sustainable practices in the aviation sector.
The Malaysia Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030 outlines a comprehensive plan for the industry’s growth—the 41 initiatives in the blueprint position Malaysia as a leader in the aerospace sector. The plan focuses on generating significant revenue and creating high-tech jobs.
The emphasis on horizontal and vertical integration within industries enhances Malaysia’s position in the global market. Sustainable alternatives like SAF, electricity, and hydrogen-based energy remain central to this strategy.
Prof. Shamsul’s comments on the iESG framework underline the need for sustainable practices in aerospace. Cleaner technologies and improved fuel efficiency remain vital components. Investing in sustainable manufacturing processes is also essential.
The role of collaborative partnerships in driving innovations forward cannot be overstated. Governments, aerospace companies, and research institutions must work together. These partnerships achieve shared environmental, social, and governance goals.
The MyAero Sustainable Aviation Symposium 2024 highlighted the importance of these collaborative efforts. The symposium’s discussions underscored the need for sustainable practices in the aviation sector. The focus on SAF and other sustainable alternatives remains crucial for the industry’s future.
In conclusion, the call for the palm oil industry to repurpose residuals for SAF represents a strategic move. It aligns with Malaysia’s broader goals for sustainable development, and the Malaysia Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030 provides a clear roadmap for achieving these goals.
The emphasis on horizontal and vertical integration, along with the ESG framework, positions Malaysia as a leader in the sustainable aviation sector. Collaborative partnerships drive these innovations forward. The MyAero Sustainable Aviation Symposium 2024 set the stage for future discussions on sustainable practices in aviation.