KUALA LUMPUR, June 30 -- As conflict in the Middle East threatens to disrupt global energy markets and reignite concerns over fuel prices, Malaysia's long-dormant nuclear ambitions are once again returning to the spotlight.

With the government expecting the country to feel the effects of higher energy costs in the coming months, policymakers have increasingly spoken about the need to diversify Malaysia's energy sources and strengthen long-term energy security.

In recent months, discussions surrounding nuclear energy have resurfaced, prompting questions about whether Malaysia is finally moving closer to joining the ranks of countries that generate electricity through nuclear power.

Where exactly does the country stand today?

The answer...