What is it about?
This paper introduces theory-based evaluation (TBE) as a technique to assess the effectiveness of the national biofuel policy (NBP) for Malaysia's transport sector, an area where TBE is less commonly applied. By deriving evaluation criteria from the NBP's official goals, including sustainability, reduced fossil fuel dependency, and enhanced stakeholder welfare, the study reconstructs the policy theory and rigorously evaluates its causal links through critical analysis of policy documents and scientific knowledge. Weaknesses in the policy framework are identified, highlighting areas for improvement. Additionally, the paper shares experiences with using TBE for policy evaluations, providing valuable insights for future assessments in the energy and climate change policy domains.
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Why is it important?
Assessing the effectiveness of Malaysia's National Biofuel Policy (NBP) through a theory-based evaluation (TBE) approach holds significant importance for several reasons. Firstly, the NBP aims to address crucial issues such as sustainability, reduced fossil fuel dependency, and stakeholder welfare in the transport sector. Understanding the policy's effectiveness is essential for ensuring that it achieves its intended objectives and contributes positively to Malaysia's energy security and environmental sustainability goals. Secondly, by applying a TBE approach, this study provides a structured and rigorous method to critically analyze the underlying theory of the NBP and evaluate its causal links. Identifying weaknesses in the policy framework can inform policymakers and stakeholders about areas needing improvement, thereby enhancing the policy's impact and effectiveness. Additionally, sharing experiences with using TBE for policy evaluations contributes to the methodological advancement in energy and climate change policy domains, fostering evidence-based policymaking and enhancing the overall quality of policy assessments. Ultimately, this research serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to enhance the effectiveness of energy policies and advance sustainable development goals in Malaysia and beyond.
Perspectives
The Malaysia's National Biofuel Policy (NBP) represents a significant effort to address pressing issues such as reducing fossil fuel dependency and promoting sustainability in the transport sector. Understanding the effectiveness of this policy is crucial for assessing its impact on environmental conservation and energy security, both nationally and globally. Secondly, the application of through theory-based evaluation (TBE) approach offers a structured and systematic method to analyze the underlying theory of the NBP and evaluate its causal links, providing valuable insights into areas for improvement. From my perspective, such evaluations are essential for evidence-based policymaking, ensuring that policies align with their intended objectives and deliver tangible benefits to society. Additionally, sharing experiences with using TBE for policy evaluations contributes to the advancement of research methodologies in the energy and climate change policy domains, fostering greater rigor and effectiveness in future assessments. Ultimately, this research represents a valuable contribution to the field of environmental policy evaluation, offering actionable insights to policymakers and stakeholders striving to enhance sustainability efforts in Malaysia and beyond.
Mr. Lee Wei Chang
University of Malaya
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Application of theory-based evaluation for the critical analysis of national biofuel policy: A case study in Malaysia, Evaluation and Program Planning, October 2015, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2015.03.007.
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