People's Assembly: Biodiesel B15 savings 20,410 tons of diesel a month

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 5: Implementation of B15 biodiesel reduces the average consumption of petroleum diesel by 20,410 tonnes per month for the period June to August 2026.

Minister of Agriculture and Commodities Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad said this would reduce the country's dependence on petroleum fuels.

He clarified that Malaysia's position as one of the world's leading palm oil producers provides an advantage in the availability of raw materials to support continuous biodiesel production.

"From an economic and energy security point of view, local biodiesel consumption can also reduce the country's exposure to fluctuations in petroleum diesel prices on global markets, especially during geopolitical tensions. This situation has the potential to help the government manage diesel subsidy spending more effectively", he said in the Lok Sabha today.

He said this while answering additional questions of Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun (Pakatan Harapan-Port Dickson) on the amount of petroleum diesel that can be saved through implementation of B15 in 2026 as well as savings to countries by reducing diesel imports.

Noraini said the increase in biodiesel flour rates from B10 to B15 from 1 June 2026 was among the government's measures to reduce dependence on petroleum diesel through local palm oil-based biodiesel consumption.

Regarding concerns about vehicle performance, he said the field studies and tests conducted by Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) in conjunction with Japan Automotive Manufacturers Association (JAMA) showed that biodiesel blends up to B20 are suitable for use on diesel vehicles designed according to specifications after 2020.

"MPOB has always been involved with JAMA and the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA). Studies conducted show that B10 and B20 biodiesel mixtures can be used well in diesel engines designed according to current specifications after 2020.

"Since its implementation in 2020, the use of B20 in Langkawi, Labuan and Sarawak, except for Bintulu, so far Alhamdulillah no problems have been reported", he said.

He advised people not to worry about the use of biodiesel as its implementation is based on studies, field tests and technical standards established to ensure that vehicle safety and performance are maintained. - TVS.