Anwar Calls On AZEC Partners To Strengthen Collaboration On ASEAN Power Grid

By Nur Syahidayah Mahasan and Aisha Hani Nor Azmir

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 26 (Bernama) -- 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 here, the ASEAN Chairman said the regional platform remains crucial in promoting mutually beneficial cooperation in transitioning towards clean and sustainable energy.

“From Malaysia’s perspective, the AZEC principle of one goal, various pathways resonates deeply with our national approach to energy transition.

“Complementing our national efforts is the development of the ASEAN power grid, which is pivotal to achieving long-term energy security and climate ambitions,” he said.

The meeting, held on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, was co-chaired by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Also present were other ASEAN leaders as well as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Anwar also outlined Malaysia’s measures to strengthen climate governance and accelerate its energy transition towards a low-carbon economy. 

These include the Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) Act 2025, which lays the legal foundation for large-scale carbon management and a low-carbon economy and the forthcoming National Climate Change Bill, he noted.

The Prime Minister said the Malaysian Government is also planning to introduce a carbon tax in 2026, signalling a clear shift from ambition to implementation, and that continued financing for investments in low-carbon technologies is also welcomed.

AZEC was launched in 2023 and currently comprises 11 partner countries, namely Japan, Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

The three-day 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, which convene at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from today under Malaysia ASEAN Chairmanship 2025, themed “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, gathered more than 3,000 delegates, including prominent leaders from over 30 countries and organisations, aimed at strengthening engagement and cooperation.

-- BERNAMA