Malaysia launches green bunkering roadmap for marine biofuels

Malaysia has introduced a Green Bunkering Regulatory Roadmap to prepare its federal ports and regulatory frameworks for a transition to low-carbon marine fuels. Launched by Minister of Transport Anthony Loke at Maritime Week 2026, the plan was developed in partnership with Australia’s Partnerships for Infrastructure programme.

The roadmap provides strategic direction for all seven of Malaysia’s federal ports through nine priority recommendations. These include institutional reform, digital licensing, safety frameworks for methanol and ammonia bunkering, and investment incentives. A significant measure will take effect in February 2027, consolidating bunkering licenses into a single-window process managed by the Ministry of Transport to streamline approvals.

In the broader maritime sector, fuel supplier Peninsula reported completing over 450 biofuel deliveries globally in 2025, helping to avoid more than 150,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Industry experts note that FAME-based biofuels are becoming an established option for reducing lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, though they require careful management regarding fuel compatibility and machinery performance.