He said the national energy security agenda needed to be driven more comprehensively, including through the strategic use of domestic resources.

“The government is strengthening the use of biodiesel to extend energy supply, reduce dependence on imports and support the local industry,” Bernama reported him as saying at a briefing on the global supply crisis.

Akmal said the government would also continue to focus on developing fertiliser supply and agricultural inputs to ensure food security.

“Discussions with industry players have focused on efforts to diversify raw material sources, enhance production efficiency and expand production capacity to meet domestic needs,” he said.

Akmal said the government is emphasising the production of bio-organic fertiliser as an alternative to conventional fertiliser.