Methodological Review of Malaysia’s Energy Security Measurement: A Systems Approach using Stakeholder Engagement

Abstract

This study considers the analysis of Malaysia’s Energy Security (ES) using a mixed-method of inquiry. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods known as the ‘triangulation of methods’ was used to build a solid understanding of ES from the standpoint of Malaysia within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Qualitative data were collected from 16 stakeholders and experts in the field of energy security and sustainability from Malaysia and the ASEAN region using semi-structured interviews (SSI). These data were coded using grounded theory (GT) that follows emerging coding techniques to allow for emerging ES themes to develop, hence creating our ES framework, used as the basis for a systems approach – quantitative research on ES. Quantitative data were collected from energy reports and statistics published by ministries, agencies, and relevant departments in Malaysia and ASEAN. The dimensional indicators identified from the ES framework are causally-linked using system dynamics (SD) modelling, underpinned by systems thinking, where SD models are designed and simulated to yield meaningful insights on Malaysia’s energy security for future policy recommendations. This mixed-method approach has enabled our futuring research through the modelling of scenarios to inform policy-making within the contexts of the problem space.