Kuala Lumpur: Education and training play a crucial role in preparing both new and existing talent to support ASEAN efforts to achieve net zero emissions within the next 25 years.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) senior lecturer Dr. Saraswathy Shamini Gunasekaran emphasized that people, alongside technology and infrastructure, form the three key enablers driving ASEAN’s energy transition. “It all boils down to education and training. Education would be targeted at young graduates, and when it comes to training, it’s all about reskilling and upskilling the current workforce. Therefore, the existing talent that is already in the energy industry won’t be forgotten,” she stated after sharing a session on Workforce Transformation and Youth Participation in ASEAN’s Just and Inclusive Energy Transition at the ASEAN Energy Business Forum 2025 (AEBF-25).
Dr. Saraswathy highlighted the importance of investing in human capital through continuous learning to ensure that the workforce remains relevant and resilient amid technological disruptions. In the academic setting, she noted that students are engaged in hands-on research and consultancy projects with industry partners, helping them realize the genuine impact of the energy transition and its ties to climate resilience. “When youth see the real-world impact, they develop a sense of responsibility and confidence to be part of the green workforce,” she added, pointing out that institutions like UNITEN encourage participation in competitions focusing on data analytics to improve energy grid systems, thereby strengthening students’ readiness to contribute to the low-carbon economy.
Meanwhile, Amira Bilqis, co-founder of Youth for Energy Southeast Asia (Y4E-SEA), emphasized the significant role of youth as they are among the largest users of social media and digital platforms, which are increasingly crucial in advancing renewable energy initiatives. “Youth are digitally skilled, and this expertise is crucial as the energy transition moves towards greater use of renewable energy and digital solutions. Their influence on social media also helps build public awareness and support for sustainability,” she asserted.
Amira also mentioned that young professionals and students are leading grassroots movements across the region through organizations such as Reboot Philippines, Society of Renewable Energy Indonesia, Women in Energy, and About Energy Cambodia. These groups advocate for clean energy and conduct on-the-ground initiatives, such as installing solar panels in rural areas, she added.