Asia has recognized the critical role nuclear energy plays in meeting its burgeoning energy needs while tackling climate change. Numerous Asian nations have embraced nuclear power as a viable and sustainable solution to reduce their carbon footprint. Currently, Asia boasts approximately 140 operational nuclear reactors, and plans for an additional 40-50 reactors are in place, showcasing Asia's commitment to nuclear energy.

Some Southeast Asian nations are exploring the possibility of incorporating nuclear energy. While nuclear plants can generate reliable, emissions-free energy, investing requires thorough research and expertise. Emerging nuclear energy nations should build robust R&D programs to enable safe, sustainable sectors. Strong R&D develops critical knowledge and best practices for operations and regulation. Tapping into South Korean expertise could allow efficient, safe adoption. Only few countries can match South Korea's 35+ years of focused nuclear energy R&D.

ASEAN is actively addressing the energy challenges accompanying its remarkable economic growth. The broader vision involves a comprehensive energy transition, acknowledging the need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and increase the share of renewables and clean technologies, emphasizing a sustainable and green energy future for the ASEAN region.

As Indonesia stands at the crossroads of its political landscape, the upcoming presidential election in February 2024 brings to the forefront critical discussions about the nation's energy future. With a population nearing 280 million and energy demands escalating, the focus on clean and sustainable energy sources, particularly nuclear energy, is gaining prominence. This analysis delves into the positions of the three presidential candidates – Prabowo Subianto, Anies Baswedan, and Ganjar Pranowo – on nuclear energy and their broader views on clean energy, climate change, and Indonesia's ambitious carbon reduction targets.

As ASEAN countries are starting to explore nuclear energy to meet rising energy demands, developing the human resources and workforce needed to support safe and secure nuclear power programs remains a key challenge across the region. With advanced nuclear technology and long experience nurturing human capital, South Korea is poised to be an ideal partner in helping ASEAN build the skilled manpower needed to harness nuclear energy safely and efficiently.

South Korea has emerged as a true leader in nuclear energy technology and expertise. South Korea's expertise and decades of experience offer invaluable guidance for ASEAN states embarking on nuclear power.

As ASEAN countries aim to both decarbonize and meet rapidly growing energy demand, strong partnerships are key to reaching these goals. In this context, we firmly believe that South Korea and ASEAN are inherently well-suited partners in shaping a sustainable future together. South Korea has amassed world-leading expertise in various fields while ASEAN economies are projected to be among the fastest-growing in the coming decades.

With a commitment to environmental sustainability, Malaysia has set ambitious goals to become a carbon-neutral nation by 2050, with a targeted 70% renewable capacity by the same year. However it is important to note that renewable energy alone may not suffice to entirely replace fossil fuels as the primary baseload energy source. Another low-carbon energy source, such as nuclear power, has emerged as a viable alternative to complement RE through hybrid technology in the energy mix.

As ASEAN nations grapple with the dual challenges of escalating energy demand and climate change, nuclear power has once again emerged as a viable solution. Over the past 15 years, energy demand in the region has surged by 60%, primarily met by imports of fossil fuels. While nuclear energy provides reliable, emissions-free electricity, it faces challenges such as high upfront costs, safety concerns, and waste management. Nevertheless, active nuclear programs in Indonesia and the Philippines, coupled with private sector interest, signal a potential nuclear future in the region. Collaboration among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and public support will be crucial in harnessing nuclear power's role in a sustainable ASEAN future.