Kuala Lumpur: Addressing energy and climate policies together creates a powerful momentum for ASEAN as the region progresses towards energy transition, an expert said.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute visiting senior fellow Dr. Christopher Len stated that organizations within the region have transitioned from viewing energy and climate policies as separate streams to treating them as a mutually reinforcing agenda. He noted that regional frameworks like the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation, alongside national strategies, now align their targets and emphasize integrating clean energy into broader climate action plans.
Dr. Len highlighted that by implementing new technologies and growing green economies, there will be significant opportunities for investments in clean energy and climate solutions. He emphasized the need for buy-in from business owners, the general population, and external stakeholders, as well as the importance of a coherent message when discussing energy and climate in the region. Coordinating and harmonizing regulations to create a larger market will attract investments, he said during a panel session entitled “Accelerating ASEAN’s Energy-Climate Nexus: Linking SDG 7 and SDG 13 for a Just and Inclusive Energy Transition” at the ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF).
The panel also saw the launch of the ASEAN SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) Study, conducted by the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) through the ASEAN Climate Change and Energy Project Phase II (ACCEPT II) in partnership with the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI). The study reviews ASEAN’s progress in delivering SDG 7 and demonstrates how climate action under SDG 13 can serve as a strategic enabler through policy integration, climate finance mobilization, and resilience building.
Commenting on the report, Royal Norwegian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur deputy head mission Knut ˜yvind Granli said the report offers timely insights into how both SDGs can strengthen each other, accelerating decarbonization while promoting innovation, job creation, and resilience. Granli underscored Norway’s value as ASEAN’s sectoral dialogue partner and its role in advancing global climate action. He stated that Norway aims to support ASEAN’s transition toward a low-carbon economy, fostering innovation and sustainable growth, and is prepared to continue this partnership to ensure ASEAN’s energy transition is not only fast and sustainable but also inclusive for all.