Jakarta, 7 September 2023 – The ASEAN-Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) 2023 has put a spotlight on green energy as one of its flagship topics, reflecting the growing global interest in sustainable and eco-friendly solutions. Deputy Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), Rosan Roeslani, highlighted the remarkable interest in the EV Ecosystem and Value Chain project, signaling the region’s eagerness to transition towards clean energy.

“There were three EV Ecosystem and Value Chain projects (presented), and more than 50 people attended, exceeding the capacity,” Rosan noted, underscoring the enthusiasm for sustainable energy solutions in Southeast Asia.

The urgency of transitioning to clean energy is underscored by the region’s emission reduction targets. Projection data suggests that without climate mitigation measures, the ASEAN region’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) could decline by 2048, making ASEAN the most vulnerable market in Asia. To achieve emission reduction targets, ASEAN needs cumulative investments of over US$1.5 trillion by 2030.

The 43rd ASEAN Summit held in Jakarta from 5–7 September 2023 echoed the commitment of ASEAN countries to promote the use of eco-friendly energy. In the AIPF, discussions revolved around renewable energy, the development of green hydrogen, green ammonia, refinery alumina, battery value chains, as well as toll road and port infrastructure.

The AIPF’s agenda on the second day included a variety of discussions like Leaders Talk, Briefers, CEO Fireside Chat, and panel discussions. These conversations delved into the three subthemes of AIPF: Green Infrastructure and Resilient Supply Chain, Sustainable and Innovative Financing, and Inclusive Digital Transformation and Creative Economy.

Clean energy is also a top priority for Australia’s business cooperation initiatives. Vice Foreign Minister Pahala Mansury emphasized that Asia is the primary destination for Australia’s investments, aligning with Australia’s South East Asia Economic Strategy to 2040. Priority sectors, as outlined by Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese, include agriculture and food, energy resilience, clean energy transition, infrastructure, and education.

President of the Republic of Indonesia Joko Widodo, along with the heads of state/government of ASEAN countries, listens to a presentation by the President Director of PT PLN (Persero) Darmawan Prasodjo (right) during their visit to a booth at the sidelines of the ASEAN-Indo-Pacific Forum (AIPF) at the Hotel Mulia, Jakarta, Selasa (5/9/2023). Media Center KTT ASEAN 2023/Galih Pradipta/aww.

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Japan’s commitment to enhancing connectivity with ASEAN countries. Key focus areas include infrastructure and transportation development, digital connectivity, maritime initiatives, supply chain resilience, green energy, and human resources development, all in line with the ASEAN Connectivity Initiatives.

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed hopes for innovative cooperation with a focus on human resource development, infrastructure, ocean management, disaster management, and renewable energy. The ASEAN-Canada Strategic Partnership program has significantly increased Canada’s trade with ASEAN, indicating a strong commitment to regional collaboration.

AIPF’s business matching event further underlined the potential for cooperation in the green energy sector. Over two days, more than 185 national and international investors from 129 companies gathered, identifying cooperation potential worth US$32 billion for Indonesia and US$810 million for other ASEAN member countries.

In closing, Vice Foreign Minister Pahala expressed optimism that these discussions and agreements would promote cooperation and understanding of investment needs, fostering a future marked by sustainable, green energy solutions in the ASEAN-Indo-Pacific region. The commitment of nations and businesses at AIPF 2023 signals a promising step towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.