Agreement Details and Formal Signing

The memorandum of understanding for nuclear energy cooperation was signed in Beijing on 17th August 2026. The document was executed by MTI’s Permanent Secretary for Energy and Trade, Augustin Lee, and CAEA vice-chairman Liu Jing. The proceedings were observed by Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry), Dr. Tan See Leng, and CAEA chairman Shan Zhongde.

Scope of Collaborative Efforts

This nuclear energy cooperation establishes a framework for capacity building between the two nations. The collaboration focuses on several core areas:

• Technical and safety assessments of various nuclear reactor technologies.
• Structured manpower training programs and scientific exchange visits.
• Initiatives regarding public communications, education, and stakeholder engagement.
• Advancements in nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.
• Applications of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes.

“There is much we can learn from partners around the world as we consider the options for Singapore’s energy future, and we are building those foundations, one partnership at a time,” Dr. Tan said in a social media post.

Supporting National Energy Objectives

MTI stated that this agreement is part of a broader series of engagements with international partners, including the United States, France, and South Korea. These relationships are designed to assist Singapore in developing the independent capabilities required to conduct objective, technical assessments regarding the possible deployment of nuclear energy.

Preparations for the IAEA Review

The nuclear energy cooperation contributes to the ongoing preparations for the International Atomic Energy Authority (IAEA) Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) phase 1 mission, scheduled for 2027. This review follows the IAEA milestones approach, a global framework that assists nations in evaluating the commitments necessary for developing a nuclear power program.

The Role of the INIR Mission

The INIR mission provides a comprehensive assessment across 19 specific areas, including emergency planning, radioactive waste management, and nuclear safety capabilities. During this process, China and other international partners provide insights that support local capacity building.

The mission will involve a week-long plenary interview conducted by experts from the IAEA. This process allows the agency to gain an understanding of the current stage of development in the country and offer tailored support. The subsequent findings, which will include recommendations and observations, will assist in the creation of a national action plan to address requirements for reaching Milestone 1.

During engagements with MEMR and CMEA, the Philippine delegation highlighted Indonesia’s position as a strategic energy partner and the Philippines’ principal supplier of imported coal. The delegation reaffirmed the continued importance of coal in supporting the country’s power sector while requesting regulatory clarity regarding Indonesia’s export framework to help preserve power supply stability, affordability, and existing commercial arrangements.

Coordinating Minister Hartarto and Vice Minister Tanjung confirmed that the Indonesian government is pursuing improvements to regulations governing coal exports with the objective of enhancing transparency and strengthening traceability. They explained that PT DSI is leading this initiative and expects to release the draft regulation soon. At the same time, both officials stressed that Indonesia recognizes the importance of maintaining stable coal supply to partner economies that rely heavily on coal for electricity generation and industrial operations, emphasizing that the regulatory changes are intended to improve transparency in coal transactions rather than disrupt supply.

Secretary Garin welcomed Indonesia’s commitment to maintaining coal supply stability for its partner countries and underscored the value of regulatory certainty as Philippine stakeholders adapt their procurement strategies.

“Every partnership we build is about protecting the everyday lives of Filipinos. This commitment from Indonesia strengthens our efforts to keep our energy supply secure: helping hospitals care for patients, schools stay open, businesses create jobs, and families keep the lights on at home.” Secretary Garin said.

Talks Expand to LNG, Renewable Energy and ASEAN Regional Initiatives

In addition to coal, discussions between the two countries also explored opportunities for expanded cooperation in liquefied natural gas (LNG) and renewable energy. The Philippines expressed particular interest in developing small-scale LNG projects capable of supplying off-grid islands. Both sides further agreed to encourage discussions among relevant government agencies and state-owned enterprises to examine potential government-to-government cooperation involving LNG.

The meetings also addressed major ASEAN energy initiatives, particularly the ASEAN Power Grid (APG), which remains one of the Philippines’ Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs) under its ASEAN Chairmanship. During the discussions, the Philippine delegation shared findings from ongoing studies indicating the technical feasibility of cross-border power interconnection and expressed optimism that a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on power interconnection could advance alongside the wider APG agenda. The DOE additionally sought updates regarding Indonesia’s domestic procedures for signing the Enhanced MOU on the APG and ratifying the ASEAN Framework Agreement on Petroleum Security (APSA), with Indonesia reaffirming its commitment to complete the necessary requirements.

Secretary Garin also renewed her invitation for MEMR to participate in the 44th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM), which the Philippines will host this October, while proposing that the Philippines–Indonesia Joint Energy Working Group convene on the sidelines of the event.

Indonesia Outlines New Export Framework and Long-Term Energy Cooperation

During a separate meeting with PT DSI, the Indonesian state-owned enterprise responsible for overseeing exports of strategic natural resource commodities, the Philippine delegation received a briefing on the phased implementation of Indonesia’s new export mechanism. PT DSI explained that the initial stage will prioritize documentation, transparency, and data consolidation before transitioning toward full implementation. Company officials emphasized that the new mechanism is designed to strengthen governance, transparency, and the long-term credibility of Indonesia’s commodity exports without disrupting existing trade. They added that current contracts will remain unaffected where no irregularities are identified.

Secretary Garin expressed appreciation to the Government of Indonesia for its openness, transparency, and continued support for the Philippines’ energy security. She noted that the visit reflects the enduring partnership between the two countries and reaffirmed the DOE’s commitment to maintaining close coordination with the Indonesian Government and the Philippine counterparts.

According to the DOE, the Jakarta meetings secured near-term supply assurances while advancing longer-term cooperation across regional interconnection, LNG, renewable energy, and energy security. The Department also reaffirmed its commitment to developing the country’s indigenous energy resources as part of its long-term strategy to deliver a secure, reliable, affordable and resilient energy future for the Filipino people.

In preparation for Indo Water, Indo Waste & Recycling, Indo Renergy &
Electric, Indo Security, Indo Firex, and Indonesia International Smart City 2026 Expo & Forum, PT  Napindo Media Ashatama (Napindo) successfully held a Technical Meeting on Wednesday (15/07/2026) with exhibitors, partners, venue representatives, and related stakeholders. The meeting marked an important part of the preparation series leading up to the exhibition, which will take place on 11–13 August 2026 at JIExpo Kemayoran, Jakarta, Indonesia.

Entering its milestone 20^th edition and marking 25 years of continuous contribution to the industry, Indo Water 2026 continues to drive the advancement of Indonesia’s water and wastewater sector. The exhibition has established itself as the industry’s must-attend exhibition and a one-stop destination to foster business collaboration and industry development.

The event began with an opening remark by Managing Director of Napindo, who expressed appreciation for the enthusiasm and participation of attendees at the Indo Water 2026 Expo & Forum Technical Meeting.

“For more than two decades, Indo Water has grown into one of Southeast Asia’s premier industry events, consistently contributing to Indonesia’s economic growth. With the strong support and collaboration of our exhibitors, government institutions, associations, and partners, we are confident this year’s exhibition will deliver greater opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth across the water, wastewater, waste & recycling, renewable energy & electric, security, fire protection, and smart city sectors.”

Following the opening remarks, the event continued with a technical briefing session presented by Adhika Arthapaty, Operation Director of Napindo. Through this session, Napindo provided detailed explanations and guidelines regarding the administrative and technical requirements that must be fulfilled by exhibitors prior to and during the exhibition. Napindo also reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a professional and high-quality exhibition that provides the best experience for all exhibitors, partners, and visitors.

As the pioneer of international water and wastewater industry exhibitions in Indonesia, Indo Water continues to provide a strategic platform that brings together industry players, government institutions, associations, academics, professionals, and investors. Through this event, stakeholders are able to expand business networks, exchange insights, introduce innovations, and build strategic partnerships.

Bringing together six of Indonesia’s leading and most prominent international exhibitions, this homegrown initiative reflects the capability of Indonesian organizers to deliver world-class international events. As Indonesia’s No.1 International Water, Wastewater, Waste & Recycling, Renewable Energy & Electric, Security, Firex, and Smart City Industry Technology Event, this integrated exhibition showcases comprehensive technologies, innovations, and solutions across six strategic sectors under one roof.

Indo Water 2026 is set to welcome 700 exhibitors from 30 countries, including 12 country pavilions. The exhibition has already received strong international interest, with countries including Indonesia, Australia, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Türkiye, the United States, and many others confirming their participation. Napindo also expects to welcome 17,000 professional visitors over the three-day event. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the latest technologies and innovations while gaining valuable insights from industry experts on current challenges and emerging solutions that drive the advancement of the water and wastewater industry.

With increasing participation from a wide range of stakeholders and global industry players, Napindo remains optimistic that Indo Water 2026 Expo & Forum will serve as an important momentum to strengthen investment, expand business collaboration, and accelerate the transformation of Indonesia’s water and wastewater industry into a more competitive sector on the global stage.

The certifications span three internationally recognized management system standards: International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems, ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management Systems, and ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems.

“These certifications show how MGEN is strengthening governance across its generation portfolio. As we grow both our renewable and thermal businesses, we are making sure that our assets are operated under clear, consistent, and internationally recognized standards,” said MGEN President and CEO Emmanuel V. Rubio.

Raising the Standard Across Renewable Operations

Six certified solar facilities across Luzon now operate under a single, third-party-validated management framework that meets international standards for quality, environmental performance, and occupational health and safety. MGEN Renewable Energy, Inc. (MGEN Renewables) has been awarded Triple ISO Certification by TÜV SÜD Philippines – covering its head office and solar facilities in Nueva Ecija, Rizal, Bulacan, Isabela, Batangas, and Tarlac.

The scope of this certification reflects the organizational depth behind MGEN Renewables’ operations. Bringing a geographically distributed portfolio under a unified, certified management framework demonstrates that the company’s expansion has been matched by the institutional systems required to govern it responsibly.

“For MGEN Renewables, this certification is an important step as we scale our solar portfolio. It confirms that our head office and plant teams are working under one system with the same expectations for quality, environmental management, and workplace safety across all certified sites,” said MGEN Renewables President and CEO Dennis B. Jordan.

That discipline applied across renewables is not a feature of MGEN’s newer businesses alone. The same commitment to certified operational standards defines how MGEN’s thermal assets are run.

Sustaining the Standard Across MGEN Thermal

Cebu Energy Development Corporation (CEDC), Toledo Power Co. (TPC), Panay Energy Development Corporation (PEDC), and Panay Power Corporation (PPC) renewed their certifications across ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018. MGEN Thermal Energy, Inc., (formerly Global Business Power Corporation), also renewed its ISO 9001:2015 certification.

The recertifications cover MGEN Thermal’s baseload plants serving key load centers in Cebu, Iloilo, and nearby areas. These assets continue to support reliable power supply for communities, businesses, and the grid.

The renewed certifications also support MGEN Thermal’s ongoing Best-in-Class program, which aims to strengthen fleet-wide discipline through more consistent systems for operations, process management, supply chain, capital planning, and people development. The program is designed to drive more structured performance management across its assets, stronger leadership accountability, and repeatable operating practices across the fleet.

“For MGEN Thermal, these recertifications reflect the discipline required to operate facilities that support key load centers in the Visayas. These plants play an important role in providing reliable supply, and maintaining these standards helps ensure that we continue to operate responsibly and consistently,” said MGEN Thermal President and CEO Arnel L. Santos.

One Portfolio, One Standard

The ISO certifications across MGEN Renewables and MGEN Thermal support MGEN’s broader commitment to responsible operations as it continues to strengthen its diversified power generation portfolio.

Through certified management systems across its renewable and thermal assets, MGEN continues to align its operations with international standards while supporting the country’s need for a more reliable, affordable, and sustainable power.

Updates to Countercyclical and Emergency Support

A primary component of this new policy framework involves revisions to the Countercyclical Support Facility. This mechanism is now tailored to provide targeted assistance to countries experiencing severe economic strain due to energy supply volatility, including unexpected import interruptions or sharp price hikes. Through this initiative, the ADB can expedite budget support, allowing governments to maintain essential public services and protect vulnerable populations during periods of high market stress.

Furthermore, the bank has expanded its Emergency Disaster Financing framework. Previously restricted to addressing infrastructure damage caused by natural disasters, the framework now encompasses energy-related emergencies that do not involve physical destruction. This allows for rapid funding disbursement when specific conditions are met, such as significant surges in fuel import costs or rising inflation directly linked to energy expenses.

Enhancing Assistance for Essential Services

The bank has also modified its Emergency Assistance Lending program to mitigate the impacts of energy instability on livelihoods and critical sectors. Before finalizing financial assistance, the ADB will execute rapid impact assessments to pinpoint the areas of greatest need.

The assessments will prioritize key infrastructure areas, including electricity grids, gas networks, public utilities, and transportation services, helping direct financial support to the sectors with the greatest needs.

These strategic updates to the policy framework reflect the critical role of energy security in maintaining long-term economic stability. The integration of these tools ensures that the Asia-Pacific energy crisis response remains both agile and effective, supporting sustainable development goals even amidst significant external pressures.

The new framework establishes a platform for both regulatory authorities to work more closely while expanding the exchange of information and expertise relating to the oversight of electricity and gas markets. Through this partnership, the two regulators will share technical knowledge and industry best practices covering energy market monitoring, regulatory frameworks, and power system reliability. The collaboration is intended to strengthen energy market regulation by enabling both agencies to respond more effectively to developments across the global energy sector.

The Memorandum of Cooperation also provides for a series of collaborative initiatives, including regular dialogues, technical exchanges, study visits, and the exploration of opportunities for joint research. These activities are designed to enhance regulatory capabilities while promoting continuous learning and cooperation between the two organizations.

Puah Kok Keong said that the global energy landscape is evolving rapidly, making it essential for regulators to keep their policies and practices up to date. He noted that collaboration with Japan would support Singapore in maintaining a well-functioning energy market while ensuring a reliable electricity supply. He also confirmed that further discussions between the two sides would take place during an upcoming regulatory event at the Singapore International Energy Week.

Shared Priorities for Market Oversight

Tatsuya Shinkawa highlighted that Singapore and Japan have many similarities in their energy sectors. Both countries face common challenges in securing stable energy supplies while ensuring that electricity markets remain fair, competitive, and efficient. He said the Memorandum of Cooperation would create valuable opportunities for both regulators to learn from each other’s experiences and improve market oversight.

The agreement underscores the shared commitment of Singapore and Japan to advancing energy market regulation as energy systems continue to evolve. By working together and exchanging expertise on common regulatory challenges, both countries intend to reinforce more resilient energy markets, improve regulatory effectiveness, and strengthen consumer protection while supporting the long-term reliability and sustainability of their power sectors.

Strategic Collaboration for Regional Energy Security

The Joint Development Agreement was signed by Phongsupthavy Sole Co., Ltd. of Laos and Primus Sapphire Power Co., Ltd. of Myanmar. This collaboration operates under an existing Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing the electricity sector. The primary objective is to evaluate the technical and economic viability of a hydropower scheme with a projected generation capacity of approximately 2,790 megawatts. To ensure a thorough assessment, the feasibility study is slated for completion over a 34-month period, as confirmed by the Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce.

Officials noted that the initiative is designed to address the rising regional electricity demand while supporting the expansion of cross-border infrastructure. By utilizing the natural flow of the Mekong River border, the project aims to provide a stable source of power that benefits local communities and the broader Greater Mekong Subregion.

Adherence to Regulatory and Environmental Standards

During the signing ceremony, Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Dr. Manothong Vongsay emphasized that the venture illustrates the deep friendship between the two countries. He stated that the Lao government is committed to supporting the project to ensure its timely implementation. Similarly, Myanmar’s Deputy Minister for Electricity and Energy, Aye Kyaw, highlighted that the Mekong Hydropower Project is a vital step toward achieving ASEAN’s renewable energy and power connectivity targets.

Given that the Mekong is a shared waterway, both nations have pledged that all development activities will strictly follow the laws, traditions, and procedures of both Laos and Myanmar. The project is expected to play a crucial role in meeting regional electricity demand and fostering long-term economic integration through enhanced cross-border infrastructure.

As part of the agreement, both countries will collaborate on carbon credits by identifying high-integrity carbon credit projects, sharing technical knowledge and information on carbon markets, and advancing work towards an implementation agreement under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, according to a statement from the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI).

The MOU was signed by Singapore Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong and Indonesian Minister of Environment and head of the Environmental Control Agency, Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat.

Following the signing ceremony, Gan said Singapore remained committed to developing carbon markets that are credible, transparent and mutually beneficial.

He added, “This MOU signals Singapore’s and Indonesia’s intent to work towards creating a framework for channelling climate finance into high-integrity projects, from protecting forests and restoring coastal ecosystems, to deploying clean technology solutions that reduce emissions and create new economic opportunities.”

High-integrity carbon credits refer to verified, permanent and additional carbon reductions that avoid double counting and are designed to comply with the Paris Agreement.

Cross-Border Electricity Cooperation Expands

The agreement on carbon credits was among several economic initiatives introduced during the Singapore-Indonesia Leaders’ Retreat. At the gathering, President Prabowo announced that Danantara Indonesia, the country’s sovereign investment fund, would take the lead in cooperation with Singapore on cross-border electricity trade.

According to Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two leaders also witnessed the exchange of memorandums of understanding covering cross-border electricity exports as well as the development of transmission assets needed to facilitate cross-border electricity trade.

Through its investment arm, Danantara Investment Management, Danantara Indonesia signed MOUs with Singapore companies Keppel Electric and Sembcorp Utilities to explore the purchase of imported low-carbon electricity.

Separately, Danantara Indonesia signed an MOU with Singapore Energy Interconnections to support information sharing and examine opportunities for collaboration on cross-border transmission infrastructure. A joint statement issued by Singapore’s MTI and Danantara Indonesia said both governments are working towards the commercial development of 3.4 gigawatts or more of cross-border electricity projects by 2035.

The joint statement further stated that Singapore and Indonesia will cooperate in establishing the regulatory frameworks, policy measures and investment conditions necessary to enable cross-border electricity trade. It also noted that both governments will introduce a common framework for renewable energy certificates aligned with international standards to support the tracking and accounting of renewable electricity traded between the two countries.

Integrated Conference to Unite Global Nuclear Leadership

The World Nuclear Supply Chain Conference 2026 and the Philippine International Nuclear Supply Chain Forum 2026 will operate as a unified event, creating a comprehensive platform for stakeholders to converge. The conference is expected to attract policymakers, regulators, utilities, reactor vendors, engineering and construction firms, manufacturers, suppliers, financiers, research organizations, and international institutions. This consolidated approach aims to strengthen the country’s positioning within the regional nuclear supply chain while opening pathways for nuclear energy investment opportunities.

Aligning with National Nuclear Energy Targets

The Department of Energy’s initiative directly supports the Philippine Energy Plan‘s ambitious nuclear capacity goals. Under the strategic roadmap, the nation aims to develop 1,200 megawatts of nuclear capacity by 2032, expand to 2,400 megawatts by 2035 and reach 4,800 megawatts by 2050. These targets represent a comprehensive pathway toward meeting the country’s growing energy demands through clean, reliable power generation.

Philippines’ Energy Secretary Sharon S. Garin emphasized the importance of the partnership in advancing these national objectives.

“The Philippines is pleased to partner with the World Nuclear Association to convene this integrated event in Manila. As ASEAN countries explore sustainable pathways to meet growing energy demand, cooperation on policy, skills, investment, and supply chain capability will be essential,” Garin said.

Addressing Practical Requirements for Nuclear Expansion

The conference program is designed to address the multifaceted challenges involved in scaling from individual projects to full-scale nuclear programs. Participants will engage with topics including industrial readiness assessment, vendor development strategies, project delivery risk mitigation, financing mechanisms, localization initiatives, and ASEAN supply chain integration approaches.

Beyond formal presentations, the event will feature dedicated networking sessions and business-to-business meetings. These interactions provide international vendors with direct access to regional stakeholders, facilitating the identification of partnership opportunities and supply chain capabilities necessary for successful project execution.

Building Resilient Global Supply Networks

The World Nuclear Association’s Director General Sama Bilbao y León said, “The expansion of nuclear energy will be delivered through strong regional partnerships and resilient global supply chains.”

“By partnering with the Philippines Department of Energy, we are creating a single platform that brings international expertise together with ASEAN’s priorities for industrial development, clean energy, and energy security. This partnership will help turn ambition into practical collaboration across the full nuclear value chain,” he added.

The MoU was signed in Jakarta on 30th June 2026 between Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) and Indonesia’s Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (Bapeten). Through this framework, the two agencies will engage in technical exchanges, collaborative training programmes, research initiatives, and knowledge sharing in areas such as nuclear safety, nuclear security, radiation protection, and emergency preparedness.

The arrangement underscores the growing importance of regional partnerships as countries across Southeast Asia assess the potential contribution of nuclear technology to future energy demand.

Leaders Highlight Long-Term Partnership and Regional Preparedness

Benjamin Koh, Chief Executive of Singapore’s NEA, said the nuclear safety cooperation agreement builds on the strong relationship between Singapore and Indonesia. He noted that closer collaboration will help both countries strengthen regulatory oversight, improve emergency response capabilities, and exchange technical knowledge as Singapore continues to study advanced nuclear technologies.

Indonesia’s acting Bapeten chairman, Zainal Arifin, described the agreement as more than a technical arrangement. He said it represents a long-term partnership that will strengthen regulatory capabilities while helping both countries respond to new challenges in nuclear safety and radiation protection.

In addition, the nuclear safety cooperation MoU supports wider regional initiatives aimed at boosting preparedness for nuclear or radiological incidents while promoting the adoption of international safety standards throughout Southeast Asia.

Clean Energy Goals Drive Increased Interest in Nuclear Technology

The nuclear safety cooperation agreement comes as interest in clean energy alternatives continues to grow across the region, with several nations exploring nuclear energy as part of their long-term energy strategies. While Singapore has not made a decision to adopt nuclear power, it has continued to invest in research, develop regulatory expertise, and assess advanced reactor technologies.

The country is also preparing for an Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2027. The review will evaluate Singapore’s preparedness in key areas, including safety regulations, emergency planning, radioactive waste management, and institutional capacity before any decision is taken on nuclear energy development.

At the same time, Indonesia is moving ahead with efforts to develop nuclear energy while continuing to strengthen its regulatory system. The newly established agreement creates opportunities for both countries to share expertise, enhance technical capabilities, and ensure that future nuclear projects are supported by rigorous safety and security measures.