PETRONAS has successfully supplied Malaysia’s first locally blended Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to decarbonize its aviation sector. The move also demonstrates PETRONAS’ capability to provide a continuous and scalable SAF supply in Malaysia.
Local Blending and ISCC Certification
The SAF, blended at PETRONAS’ facilities in Malaysia, is certified under the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) and meets the requirements of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). Delivered directly to KLIA via the Malaysian Refining Company’s multi-product pipeline, the SAF is now readily available through an integrated supply chain.
PETRONAS’ Commitment to Decarbonisation
Ahmad Adly Alias, Vice President of Refining, Marketing, and Trading at PETRONAS, highlighted the company’s role in supporting global decarbonisation efforts, with a specific focus on Malaysia’s net-zero ambitions. “Decarbonising the aviation industry requires reliable pathways, and SAF represents one of the most immediate solutions available today,” said Alias. He also emphasized that this pilot project serves as a long-term investment aimed at building in-house capabilities through advancements in technology, infrastructure, and talent development.
“The initiative strengthens our position in supporting the government’s targets for SAF outlined in the 13th Malaysia Plan, reinforcing our commitment to national energy security and industrial growth,” he added.
SAF Integration into Malaysia Airlines Operations
The blended SAF will be used in Malaysia Airlines’ daily late evening MH2 service from Kuala Lumpur to London, starting from September 1st to 16th, 2025. This marks a practical step in integrating SAF into the airline’s regular operations, showcasing the feasibility of sustainable aviation fuels in reducing emissions.
MAG’s Commitment to Aviation Decarbonisation
Philip See, Group Chief Sustainability Officer at Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), expressed pride in the company’s role in advancing sustainable aviation in Malaysia. “Every flight powered by SAF demonstrates that aviation decarbonisation is not just a future goal but a tangible reality today,” said See. He stressed the importance of industry-wide collaboration to scale up SAF production and make it more affordable and accessible.
MAG remains committed to championing SAF adoption, aligning with both Malaysia’s and global efforts to create a more sustainable future for aviation.
Supporting Malaysia’s Net-Zero Ambitions
PETRONAS’ SAF initiative also highlights the company’s capacity to support Malaysia’s net-zero goals through scalable, cost-effective solutions. The delivery process, from global procurement and certification to local blending and distribution, complies with rigorous international sustainability standards, ensuring a reliable SAF supply for the aviation sector.
KLIA’s Role in Sustainable Aviation
KLIA plays a crucial role in supporting SAF growth and helping the aviation industry meet CORSIA requirements. Dato’ Mohd Izani Ghani, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports, emphasized the airport’s commitment to sustainability. “KLIA’s achievement of Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation by ACI reflects our progress in embedding carbon reduction into all aspects of operations,” he said. The introduction of SAF at KLIA, alongside the airport’s efforts to remain resilient and future-ready, strengthens its role in supporting airlines as they decarbonize.
“This collaboration to enable SAF availability further enhances our role in supporting Malaysia’s net-zero aspirations and ensuring our airports grow sustainably,” he added.
Conclusion
This achievement positions PETRONAS as a leader in the local SAF market, offering a scalable, cost-efficient supply chain for Malaysia’s aviation industry. It also demonstrates the growing collaboration between the private sector, government, and airports to ensure Malaysia’s role in the global push for sustainable aviation.
