KUALA LUMPUR: With Malaysia chairing Asean this year, the regional bloc is set to intensify efforts to bridge boundaries and accelerate coordinated energy initiatives, says Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Outlining Malaysia’s vision for Asean’s energy future, the Deputy Prime Minister stated that the country will leverage collective strengths to build a resilient and interconnected energy ecosystem supporting both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
"Through strategic meetings, policy dialogues and multi-sectoral partnerships, Malaysia will lead Asean in developing collaborative solutions that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility," he said.
Fadillah delivered his keynote address at the Asia Pacific Business Forum (APBF) 2025, organised by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (Unescap), on Thursday (April 10).
Also present was The Star Media Group Bhd’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Chan Seng Fatt, who accepted the Asia Pacific Media Leadership Award for Sustainability on behalf of the newspaper.
A key priority under Malaysia’s chairmanship is the expansion of the Asean Power Grid (APG), a long-standing vision to interconnect electricity networks across Southeast Asia.
This initiative aims to enable seamless energy exchange and enhance the utilisation of renewable energy resources among member states.
"By accelerating grid modernisation, strengthening transmission infrastructure and harmonising regulatory frameworks, we can unlock vast opportunities for cross-border renewable energy trade, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enhance regional energy security," Fadillah added.
He highlighted Malaysia's aim to lead discussions on green financing models to attract investments in large-scale solar, wind and hydro projects.
Malaysia plans to facilitate public-private partnerships (PPPs) and innovative financing mechanisms to position Asean as a leading destination for sustainable energy investments.
"With its strategic location, strong renewable energy capabilities and commitment to innovation, Malaysia is well-positioned to become Asean’s epicentre for clean energy research, technology deployment and sustainable financing," he said.
Fadillah noted Malaysia's intent to promote itself as the regional hub for green hydrogen development by fostering research collaboration and infrastructure investments.
The country aims to attract multinational corporations and energy leaders to invest in Asean’s clean energy sector, leveraging Malaysia’s expertise in solar power, energy storage and carbon capture.
"Malaysia will also advance digitalisation and smart energy solutions by integrating AI and IoT into its energy systems to enhance efficiency and grid reliability."
Under Malaysia’s chairmanship, Asean’s internal cooperation will be strengthened, and its voice elevated in global sustainability platforms.
The country will lead the region’s engagement with the UN’s Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and other key stakeholders.
"Malaysia will advocate for increased access to climate financing for Asean’s clean energy transition, as well as for technology transfer and capacity-building programmes.
"We will also push for greater integration of Asean economies into global carbon markets to ensure competitiveness in a net-zero future."
Fadillah emphasised that Asean’s journey toward energy security, economic resilience and environmental sustainability is gaining momentum, with Malaysia committed to driving progress.
"This is a defining moment for Asean. By working together, leveraging our strengths and embracing bold climate action, we can transform our region into a beacon of sustainable development," he said.
"As Malaysia and the Asia Pacific move towards a greener future, we must embrace bold policies, foster international cooperation and harness the power of innovation," he added.
