WHETHER it is due to water or electricity cuts, Malaysians are now being compelled to examine the way we generate and use the energy, water and other resources available to us. With regard to energy, how can Malaysians take further proactive action to encourage more efficient use of it?

Total energy consumption in this country is high as subsidies are being extended to consumers. As much as RM14.5bil was spent in 2011 alone to buy fossil fuels to generate energy. As Malaysia moves towards becoming a high-income nation, energy usage is also expected to increase. More than that, as the standard of living and population increase, the demand for energy will continue to skyrocket.