ASEAN Seeks Stronger Coordination to Counter Energy Disruptions
ASEAN Seeks Stronger Coordination to Counter Energy Disruptions
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, April 28, 2026 — ASEAN energy ministers have called for urgent coordinated action to safeguard regional energy security amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, warning of potential disruptions to global supply and rising market volatility.
In a joint statement following a special virtual ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM), ministers said the evolving crisis could threaten oil and gas supply chains and impact energy markets critical to Southeast Asia’s economies.
The ministers stressed the importance of maintaining stable and uninterrupted energy flows, particularly as ASEAN remains a net energy-importing region heavily reliant on external supplies.
They also underscored the need to keep key maritime routes open, including ensuring freedom of navigation and the safe transit of vessels, in line with international law such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
ASEAN reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, including working with dialogue partners and enhancing policy coordination to respond quickly to supply disruptions and price volatility.
Officials highlighted the need to diversify energy sources, improve supply resilience and accelerate cooperation on regional energy infrastructure to mitigate risks from geopolitical shocks.
The meeting, held on April 27, brought together energy ministers from all ASEAN member states to assess the impact of the Middle East situation on global and regional energy security, as concerns grow over economic spillovers and supply chain disruptions.
The statement reflects ASEAN’s broader push to strengthen resilience against external shocks while ensuring long-term stability in energy supply and regional economic growth.
