Nuclear power: Southeast Asia’s next energy frontier

Speaking at the Singapore International Energy Week 2025, Director General Dr. Sama Bilbao y León said the region’s rapid economic growth is driving up energy demand, prompting countries in the region to explore nuclear power as part of their long-term energy strategies.

“We foresee huge economic growth in this region, which means a huge need for energy. Most countries here are looking into as carbon-free energy as possible, that’s why many are considering nuclear,” she said in an interview.

Under the 13th Malaysia Plan. Malaysia aims to include nuclear energy in its power mix by 2031. It is also currently conducting a feasibility study for a potential adoption of nuclear energy, including small modular reactors.

Bilbao y León noted that while Malaysia already has foundational capabilities, including a research reactor and some nuclear engineering programs in local universities, significant work remains to build the necessary regulatory frameworks, industrial capacity, and skilled workforce.

She added that with many Southeast Asian countries already experienced in developing large-scale infrastructure projects, the transition to nuclear energy could be “easier than in other parts of the world.”

Despite rising global geopolitical tensions, she noted that nuclear power remains one of the few sectors where international cooperation continues to thrive, as more countries turn to it to strengthen energy security and reduce reliance on external suppliers.

However, Bilbao y León underscored the importance of public engagement, urging governments in the region to communicate transparently about nuclear energy’s benefits and risks.

“It is essential that civil society agrees with it. Governments need to start open conversations immediately to address concerns and build trust,” she said.