ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn has advocated for member states to establish a petroleum reserve for the region to manage supply shortages and rising fuel prices [1]. Speaking in an interview with Nikkei in Tokyo on November 13, 2026, Hourn emphasized the strategic importance of such reserves for regional energy security [1]. The proposal reflects ASEAN's efforts to strengthen its resilience against energy market volatility and supply disruptions [1]. Additionally, the region is welcoming private-sector support for power grid initiatives, according to the official [1]. This move suggests ASEAN is pursuing a multi-faceted approach to energy security that combines strategic reserves with infrastructure development and private investment [1].
CONCLUSION
ASEAN's push for establishing a regional petroleum reserve represents a significant policy initiative aimed at enhancing energy security and mitigating price volatility across Southeast Asia. The combination of strategic reserves and private-sector involvement in power grid development signals the region's commitment to building a more resilient and diversified energy infrastructure.