Brightening Malaysia’s future: TNB strengthens transparency and reinvestment in the nation

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has pledged to continue to drive Malaysia’s economic resilience and energy security, as the national electricty company announced a strong and sustainable financial performance for 2024. 

TNB said it was important that its success "translates directly into real benefits" for Malaysians.

“Our commitment goes beyond providing electricity – we are lighting up Malaysia’s future,” TNB chairman Abdul Razak Abdul Majid told a press conference yesterday.

“As a responsible GLC, we are not just focused on financial sustainability but on reinvesting our success back into the nation – supporting Malaysians through pension funds, economic development and affordable energy solutions,” he added.

He cited the example of TNB's Village Street Lighting Programme launched in 2000, adding that it has brightened rural areas nationwide with over 525,000 street lights. 

"We understand that Malaysians want fairness and transparency. Our commitment is clear – profits are not taken for granted but returned to the rakyat through better services, stable tariffs and long-term energy security."

In 2024, under Phase 11, an additional 14,210 energy-efficient LED lights were installed, funded under the 12th Malaysia Plan. 

By enhancing safety and connectivity in villages, TNB hopes to fuel economic activity and strengthen Malaysia’s progress – ensuring that the nation’s growth benefits every community.

Some 60% of TNB's profits are distributed as dividends to government-linked investment companies (GLICs), including Permodalan Nasional Berhad, Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Employees Provident Fund, Kumpulan Wang Persaraan and Lembaga Tabung Haji.

TNB said this ensures that Malaysia’s workforce, pensioners and future generations reap the rewards of a stable and forward-looking energy sector.

Where do TNB’s profits go?

TNB said it follows a structured profit policy that ensures its profits are reinvested into initiatives that directly improve the lives of Malaysians, adding  that its role goes beyond powering homes and businesses to powering national progress. 

"The dividends declared by TNB provide direct financial benefits to millions of Malaysians through GLICs, which collectively holds more than 60% of TNB shares," the company said in a statement.

"This ensures greater financial security for retirees and working Malaysians while at the same time, contributes to the nation’s long-term economic stability."

TNB is also actively expanding its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, focusing on tangible improvements for all Malaysians covering education, sports, community well-being and environment.

"These initiatives include expanding electrification projects in rural areas, providing education and skills training programmes and funding community-driven sustainability projects," said TNB CEO Megat Jalaluddin Megat Hassan.

Touching on public concerns on whether TNB's profitability affects electricity tariffs, the company assured Malaysians that tariffs were government-regulated and did not increase due to TNB’s profits.

TNB said its reinvestment in grid efficiency helps maintain affordability and "prevents unnecessary cost increases".

It said people-centric energy programmes, including solar incentives and time-of-use tariffs, help lower electricity bills.

"We understand that Malaysians want fairness and transparency. Our commitment is clear – profits are not taken for granted but returned to the rakyat through better services, stable tariffs and long-term energy security," said Megat Jalaluddin.

TNB said its strong financial performance enables reinvestment in national infrastructure, enhancement of energy efficiency and expansion of access to affordable, clean energy for homes and businesses, reinforcing Malaysia’s sustainable growth.

"When TNB grows, Malaysia prospers. This isn’t just about profits – it’s about ensuring a future where every Malaysian benefits from reliable, sustainable and fairly priced energy," Megat Jalaluddin added.

A greener and more sustainable Malaysia

TNB said it is leading the way in sustainability by expanding renewable energy investments in solar, hydro and green hydrogen projects.

It is also enhancing the national grid for improved efficiency, reliability and integration of green energy, while at the same time investing in smart energy solutions to empower consumers to manage electricity consumption effectively.

Razak meanwhile said sustainability is not just a goal but a responsibility to future generations, and said TNB is dedicated to making clean energy accessible, affordable and beneficial to all Malaysians.

TNB said to highlight the initiatives, the electricity bill for 85% of rakyat which receive subsidy will be labelled green to symbolise the government’s "vision to protect people’s wellbeing at the same time focusing on energy sustainability".

"This aims to raise awareness among the public on the benefits given by the government."

TNB said its mission is to drive national progress while ensuring that every Malaysian benefits from its success.

"Every light we turn on, every business we empower, every home we energise – this is what nation-building looks like. We are here to serve and brighten Malaysia’s future together," said Megat Jalaluddin.