As countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), such as the Philippines and Indonesia, seek to meet their growing energy demands while reducing carbon emissions, nuclear power is emerging as a promising option. The development of a skilled workforce is a critical component of ensuring the safety and success of nuclear power programs.

Southeast Asian countries are looking to utilize nuclear energy in the coming years. Improving nuclear literacy will be crucial for building public acceptance of nuclear power across the region. With thoughtful communication, countries can dispel misconceptions, emphasize benefits, and gain citizens' support for deploying nuclear energy.

The Philippines, under the leadership of President Marcos, is undergoing significant changes in its energy landscape due to rising energy demands, costly electricity, and heavy dependence on coal imports. In response to these challenges, the Philippines is revising its energy roadmap to incorporate nuclear energy while simultaneously increasing its targets for renewable energy sources.

PT PLN is pursuing an energy transition and decarbonization strategy to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. The utility giant plans to focus on nuclear and clean energy sources. PLN, BRIN and NuScale have established a Collaboration Agreement to conduct a Techno-Economic Assessment for the construction of SMR in West Kalimantan to support the region's power system.

The ASEAN region heavily relies on fossil fuels, particularly coal, for power generation. The cumulative installed capacity of coal power plants in ASEAN stands at approximately 89.5 GW, accounting for roughly 31% of the region's total installed capacity. The advent of SMRs provide an opportunity for ASEAN economies to transition away from their coal addiction to clean source of energy, nuclear energy.

Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is currently working on human resource development, technological capabilities and zoning as part of preparing a strategy for the development of nuclear power in Indonesia. BRIN has also emphasized on the need for involvement of foreign parties in the development of nuclear power in Indonesia.

Asia's emergence as a nuclear powerhouse signals a transformative shift in the global energy landscape. The balance of power is shifting from West to East, with nuclear technology and energy production becoming increasingly centered in Asian nations. As Asian countries like China, India, and South Korea invest in cutting-edge technology, infrastructure, and human capital, they challenge the historical dominance of Western nuclear leadership.

Over 95% of Singapore's electricity currently comes from imported natural gas. Singapore has embarked on diversified energy strategies to decrease its dependence on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However the primary emphasis in the pursuit of clean energy has been on solar power. Perhaps the Lion City needs to seriously consider adopting nuclear energy if it aspires for energy independency.

The Philippines, as one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia, faces the challenge of ensuring reliable energy while balancing environmental concerns. Two major utility players, The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) and Aboitiz Group, are at the forefront of these transformative efforts, both eyeing nuclear energy as part of their sustainability strategy.

Over the decades, the quest for nuclear power in Southeast Asia have a experienced many false-promises due to a myriad of reasons, often non-technology related but political. Recently Indonesia and the Philippines have demonstrated a renewed interest in harnessing this clean source of energy. How do these two countries match up and which of the two looks more likely to be the first member of the Southeast Asia Civil Nuclear Power club?

Nuclear power programs in the ASEAN region has traditionally been led by governments. However in recent times, with the emergence of SMRs, utilities in ASEAN have started showing a keen interest in adopting nuclear energy.

Southeast Asian countries reviving interest in nuclear energy with the advent of small modular reactors (SMRs). SMRs present an appealing option for archipelagic countries like Indonesia and the Philippines in particular. The potential adoption of SMRs could mark a pivotal milestone for ASEAN countries as they work to achieve energy security and decarbonization goals.