SOUTHEAST Asian nations are taking a decisive step towards a cleaner energy future, as the first International Conference on Nuclear Energy 2025 (ICNE 2025) convened at the Sunway Resort Hotel on Tuesday to explore nuclear power’s role in achieving sustainable energy security across the region.
The conference, themed “Paving the Way for a Sustainable Energy Source in ASEAN,” was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister II and Minister for Energy Transition and Water Transformation Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof today.
It brought together over 200 participants, including government representatives, scientists, policymakers and industry pioneers from across ASEAN and beyond.
Fadillah said the conference came at a pivotal moment as nations confront the global “energy trilemma” — balancing energy security, affordability and environmental sustainability — while Malaysia advances toward its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
“Nuclear energy, with near-zero carbon emissions and the ability to provide stable, round-the-clock supply, stands as a critical pathway that deserves serious consideration,” he said, noting that many countries are already integrating nuclear power into their long-term national energy strategies.
The two-day conference brought together key organisations including the Department of Atomic Energy Malaysia, the ASEAN Centre for Energy, the China National Nuclear Corporation, AtkinsRealis Canada, and the Korea Nuclear Association for International Cooperation. Experts from CIDB Malaysia, the Malaysian Nuclear Agency and AtkinsRealis also took part in panel sessions addressing nuclear readiness, safety standards, and regional collaboration.
Their participation reflects growing regional momentum towards strengthening ASEAN’s shared capacity to develop a secure and sustainable nuclear ecosystem.
Beyond technical discussions, ICNE 2025 also focused on human capital development and public engagement, highlighting the need to cultivate a new generation of skilled nuclear professionals while fostering trust and understanding among the public.
“When the public understands the science, safety and benefits of nuclear energy, they become active partners in shaping a cleaner, more resilient future,” the organisers said in a joint statement.
The organisers — Nestmatrix Solution and the Malaysian Nuclear Society — expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), Sunway Group and Sunway Resort Hotel for their sponsorship and partnership.
They said the event marked “a milestone for ASEAN nations in charting a responsible, innovative and inclusive pathway towards clean and sustainable energy security.”
The International Conference on Nuclear Energy 2025 (ICNE 2025) is a landmark regional event that gathers policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders to discuss opportunities and innovations in nuclear energy.
It aims to strengthen ASEAN cooperation, promote public understanding, and advance nuclear energy’s role in achieving sustainable, low-carbon growth. - November 11, 2025
