Kuala lumpur: Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today called on members of the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) to strengthen their technical and financial collaboration in accelerating the integration of the ASEAN Power Grid. In his opening remark at the 3rd AZEC Leaders’ Meeting, the ASEAN Chairman emphasized the importance of the regional platform in fostering cooperation towards clean and sustainable energy transition.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted that the AZEC principle of one goal with various pathways aligns with Malaysia’s national approach to energy transition. He underscored the ASEAN power grid’s role in achieving long-term energy security and climate ambitions, complementing national efforts. The meeting, co-chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, was attended by other ASEAN leaders and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Anwar also shared Malaysia’s initiatives to enhance climate governance and expedite its shift to a low-carbon economy. These initiatives include the Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) Act 2025, which establishes the legal framework for large-scale carbon management, and the forthcoming National Climate Change Bill. He announced plans for a carbon tax introduction in 2026, marking a transition from ambition to implementation, and welcomed continued financing for low-carbon technology investments.

AZEC, launched in 2023, consists of 11 partner countries, including Japan, Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The three-day 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, taking place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, gathered over 3,000 delegates, including leaders from more than 30 countries and organizations, aimed at enhancing engagement and cooperation.