REFLECTION BASED OFF OUR RESEARCH

Looking at global energy consumption, we see a world divided—on one side, developed nations with energy security but high levels of waste; on the other, developing nations struggling to provide consistent power to their people. Fossil fuels remain the dominant source of energy, despite decades of warnings about their environmental impact. Coal, oil, and natural gas power industries, transportation, and homes, but they also contribute to climate change, pollution, and resource depletion.

Countries like the United States, China, and India are among the largest consumers of energy, and while some have invested heavily in renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectricity, the transition has been slow and uneven. Even countries leading the renewable energy movement still rely on fossil fuels for a significant portion of their energy mix. The global dependence on non-renewable resources continues to put immense pressure on the environment, contributing to rising temperatures, extreme weather, and resource conflicts.

What shocked us the most was the sheer disparity in energy access. While some nations waste electricity on excessive lighting, overuse of air conditioning, and inefficient appliances, millions of people in rural and underdeveloped regions still rely on firewood or kerosene for cooking and lighting. Energy is not just a convenience; it is a necessity for education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Without reliable power, children cannot study at night, hospitals cannot operate efficiently, and businesses struggle to grow. This deep inequality made us question the fairness of global energy consumption and the responsibility of wealthier nations to lead the transition toward sustainable solutions.

Shifting our focus to Malaysia, we found a nation that has made significant progress in energy accessibility but still faces major challenges in sustainability. Nearly 100% of Malaysians have access to electricity, a remarkable achievement that has driven economic and social development. However, this access comes at a cost—our energy mix is still largely dependent on fossil fuels, particularly coal and natural gas. While these sources have provided stable and relatively affordable energy, they have also contributed to carbon emissions and environmental degradation.

One of our biggest concerns is Malaysia’s energy efficiency. Compared to many developed nations, we still consume energy inefficiently. Industries, businesses, and even households use more electricity than necessary due to outdated technology, lack of awareness, and the affordability of energy, which makes overconsumption seem like a minor issue. Air conditioning units run at full blast in shopping malls, lights are left on unnecessarily, and many of us take electricity for granted because we have never experienced true scarcity.

Another major issue is Malaysia’s environmental impact. While the government has committed to increasing the share of renewable energy, progress has been slow. Large-scale hydroelectric projects, though renewable, have led to deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and the displacement of indigenous communities.

Solar energy, while promising, requires significant investment and land use. As we researched, we realized that there is no perfect energy solution—every source has trade-offs, and the key lies in finding a balance that minimizes harm while meeting growing demand.

This research has changed the way we see our own role in energy consumption. At first, we assumed that energy policies and large corporations held the most responsibility for solving this crisis. But the more we learned, the more we understood that change also starts with us. Every action we take—whether it’s reducing unnecessary energy use, switching to energy-efficient appliances, or supporting renewable initiatives—contributes to the bigger picture. If we, as individuals and communities, start valuing energy as a limited and precious resource, we can collectively reduce waste and demand more sustainable solutions from those in power.

Perhaps the most important shift we need is in our mindset. Energy is not infinite, and it is not free from consequences. Every time we leave a light on, turn on an air conditioner, or take a long, hot shower, there is an impact—on our electricity bills, on the environment, and on future generations. The challenge is not just about producing more energy but about using it wisely.

As we reflect on everything we’ve learned, we feel a mix of hope and concern. The challenges Malaysia and the world face in energy sustainability are immense, but so are the opportunities. Our country has abundant natural resources, technological capabilities, and the ability to learn from other nations' successes and failures. The transition to clean energy will not happen overnight, but with the right policies, investments, and cultural shifts, we could create a future where energy is not only abundant but also clean, efficient, and accessible to all.

We have the potential to be a leader in sustainable energy if we act now. The government needs to strengthen policies that encourage energy efficiency and renewable energy development. Businesses must take responsibility for reducing their carbon footprint and investing in cleaner alternatives. And we, as individuals, must change our daily habits, demand better policies, and spread awareness.

This is not just an issue of science or economics—it is a moral responsibility. The decisions we make today will determine the kind of world future generations will inherit. If we choose wisely, we can create a future where energy empowers rather than destroys, where progress does not come at the cost of the planet, and where no one is left in the dark.