Singapore's ASEAN Chairmanship as Opportunity to Advance Nuclear Adoption and Address High Cost Issues in the Region

Ms Poh Li San asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment how does Singapore, as Chairman of ASEAN in 2027, intend to (i) collaborate with the International Atomic Energy Agency and ASEAN on the peaceful and safe use of nuclear energy in the region (ii) leverage collective interest of Member States to address high infrastructure and technology costs and (iii) establish regulatory framework and ensure compliance to safety protocols.

Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: Earlier this year, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders collectively recognised the growing regional interest in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and have emphasised the need to strengthen regulatory readiness and institutional capabilities to ensure the safe and secure use of nuclear energy through partnerships with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other dialogue partners.

ASEAN works closely with IAEA under the ASEAN–IAEA Practical Arrangements, which provides a framework for regional cooperation between ASEAN and IAEA on capacity building, projects and research activities in the applications of radiation and nuclear technologies. This is complemented by regional engagements through the ASEAN Network of Regulatory Bodies on Atomic Energy on regulatory activities and nuclear safety, security and safeguards, and the Nuclear Energy Cooperation Sub-Sector Network on capacity building.

As Singapore assumes the Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2027, we will continue to work closely with IAEA and ASEAN member states to strengthen emergency preparedness and response, operationalise regional protocols, enhance regional radiation monitoring capability and information sharing arrangements, and conduct exercises to ensure readiness. These efforts build confidence, improve coordination and strengthen our region's ability to respond to a nuclear or radiological emergency and support peaceful use of nuclear energy safely and securely.