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ASEAN member nations are actively exploring the potential of nuclear power as a clean and reliable source of electricity to support the region’s energy transition and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, according to Malaysia’s Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA).
The initiative was a key outcome of the 15th Nuclear Energy Cooperation Sub-Sector Network (NEC-SSN) meeting, held from April 28 to 30, 2025 in Kuala Lumpur.
The meeting, jointly organised by PETRA and the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE), was chaired by the Philippines and attended in person and virtually by delegates from Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, and Timor-Leste as an observer.
“Among the matters discussed was the proposed focus areas for the development of a strategy and action plan to be implemented under the Civilian Nuclear Energy (CNE) sub-sector of the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2026–2030,” PETRA said in a statement.
The proposed strategic priorities and action items will be presented for consideration at the ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting on Energy (SOME), scheduled for June 2025 in Kuching, Sarawak.
The meeting also reviewed a list of potential activities under the CNE sector, which will serve as key targets in the upcoming APAEC framework.
In addition to internal discussions, ASEAN delegates also engaged with dialogue partners and international organisations, including the Korea Nuclear Association, the ASEAN Business Council, Japan’s Integrated Support Centre for Nuclear Nonproliferation and Nuclear Security, the Japan Atomic Energy Agency, and the Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership.
“These organisations will support ASEAN in shaping its nuclear energy landscape,” PETRA said.
“Through this regional cooperation, Malaysia and ASEAN member states are demonstrating their commitment to finding long-term solutions to energy challenges, in line with the aspirations of the Malaysia MADANI vision for a more sustainable and secure future for the next generation,” the ministry added. - May 1, 2025
