Singapore and Indonesia have signed an agreement aimed at bolstering cooperation in nuclear security, radiation protection, and emergency preparedness, as part of a broader effort to enhance their collaboration in the nuclear and environmental sectors. The agreement was formalized on June 30 in Jakarta, involving Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) and Indonesia’s Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency. This partnership is set to focus on various aspects including radiation monitoring, regulatory frameworks, nuclear safety training, staff exchanges, research initiatives, and technical dialogues.
Benjamin Koh, Chief Executive of the NEA, emphasized that this agreement builds on the long-standing cooperation between Singapore and Indonesia. It aligns with Singapore’s exploration of nuclear energy as a potential component of its future energy strategy. Beyond electricity generation, the agreement also covers nuclear applications in healthcare and agriculture, alongside security measures to safeguard nuclear facilities from potential threats and malicious activities.
The collaboration comes as Singapore prepares for an assessment in 2027 by the International Atomic Energy Agency to determine its readiness to make an informed decision regarding the deployment of nuclear energy. Meanwhile, Indonesia, which has a more extensive background in nuclear technology, is aiming to achieve approximately 500 megawatts of nuclear capacity by the early 2030s. The partnership is expected to bolster regional cooperation via platforms such as the ASEAN Network of Regulatory Bodies on Atomic Energy, facilitating information sharing and enhancing preparedness for potential radiological emergencies.
This nuclear deal follows a separate agreement on environmental cooperation signed on June 29, focusing on cross-border pollution, waste management, climate change, and the quality of air and water. Officials from both nations also expressed concerns about the potential reemergence of the El Niño climate pattern, which could exacerbate issues such as haze, drought, and other environmental challenges throughout Southeast Asia.