B15 Implementation Saves 23.62 Mln Litres Of Diesel A Month

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 5 (Bernama) -- The implementation of the B15 biodiesel blend has saved an average of 23.62 million litres of petroleum-based diesel per month in the June-August period.

Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said the implementation has helped the country reduce its dependence on petroleum-based fuels, strengthen national energy security, and extend the lifespan of diesel supply.

“The use of locally produced biodiesel also reduces the country’s exposure to fluctuations in global petroleum diesel prices, particularly during times of geopolitical tensions.

“This could potentially help the government manage diesel subsidy expenditure more effectively,” she said during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.

She was responding to a question from Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun (PH-Port Dickson), who asked to what extent the implementation of B15 biodiesel could reduce Malaysia’s dependence on petroleum diesel, which is subject to price volatility arising from geopolitical conflicts.

On increasing the biodiesel blending rate, Noraini said the government is moving towards a higher blending rate, but implementation needs to be carried out gradually based on readiness, including the need to upgrade logistics.

She said the approach takes into account commodity prices, the subsidy and environmental sustainability implications, as well as the benefits in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

-- BERNAMA