Sampoerna University and ASEAN Centre for Energy Partner to Empower Youth in ASEAN Energy Transition

Jakarta, Indonesia – July 9, 2025 – In a significant move toward a more sustainable future, Sampoerna University has signed a strategic partnership with the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) to enhance youth engagement in ASEAN’s energy and climate agenda. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formalized on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at the ACE headquarters in Jakarta, marking a milestone in fostering youth leadership and participation in sustainable energy development across Southeast Asia.

Advancing a Just and Inclusive Energy Transition

This collaboration focuses on building meaningful pathways for university students to engage in the regional energy transition, particularly through education, research, and capacity-building initiatives. By aligning academic programs with real-world challenges in the energy sector, Sampoerna University aims to prepare its students to lead with purpose in driving ASEAN’s shift toward a low-carbon, inclusive, and resilient energy future.

Key initiatives under the partnership include:

1. Visiting scholar programs
2. Student-led research projects
3. Internship opportunities with ACE
4. Joint workshops and conferences
5. Regional publication opportunities featuring youth perspectives

These initiatives are designed to integrate students’ voices and insights into regional dialogues on climate change and energy policy, providing them with hands-on experience and a platform to shape solutions for a more sustainable ASEAN.

A Shared Vision for the Future

The signing ceremony was attended by prominent leaders from both institutions. Representing ACE were Executive Director Dato’ Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood, Senior Manager of the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) Beni Suryadi, Manager of Energy Modelling and Policy Planning Dr. Zulfikar Yurnaidi, and Project Manager of the ASEAN Climate Change and Energy Project (ACCEPT) Phase II Aldilla Noor Rakhiemah.

From Sampoerna University, attendees included Rector Drs. Wahdi Salasi April Yudhi, M.D.A., Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology Dr. Farid Triawan, and Head of Industrial Engineering Program Dr. A.A. Perwira Redi, Ph.D.

“Empowering young people is vital to ASEAN’s journey toward a sustainable, low-carbon future,” said Dato’ Ir. Ts. Razib Dawood. “This partnership reflects our commitment to building inclusive platforms where youth can contribute actively to regional energy dialogues and solutions.”

Rector Drs. Wahdi Salasi April Yudhi emphasized the significance of this collaboration in aligning education with ASEAN’s regional development goals:

“At Sampoerna University, we believe that transformative change happens when education is connected to real-world relevance. We are honored to collaborate with ACE to empower our students not just to participate in the energy sector, but to lead it—with awareness, purpose, and global perspective.”

Powered by ACCEPT Phase II

This partnership is supported by the ASEAN Climate Change and Energy Project (ACCEPT) Phase II, one of ACE’s flagship initiatives funded by the Government of Norway. ACCEPT focuses on accelerating ASEAN’s clean energy transition through regional cooperation, knowledge exchange, and inclusivity—placing a strong emphasis on youth empowerment.

As ASEAN nations ramp up their commitment to climate action and energy sustainability, this collaboration sets a powerful precedent for cross-sector partnerships that amplify the voices of youth and align academic institutions with regional policy priorities.

About the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE)

Established in 1999, the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) is an intergovernmental organization representing the energy interests of all 10 ASEAN member states. ACE plays a critical role as a catalyst, knowledge hub, and think tank for the ASEAN energy sector. Its mission is to foster regional energy cooperation, promote sustainable energy development, and support the implementation of the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC).

Learn more: https://aseanenergy.org

About Sampoerna University

Sampoerna University is a leading international university in Indonesia, committed to delivering globally competitive education rooted in national values. As part of the Sampoerna Schools System, the university provides students with a world-class learning environment designed to cultivate academic excellence, innovation, and moral integrity.

Through partnerships with global institutions and initiatives like this collaboration with ACE, Sampoerna University empowers students to thrive in both local and international careers while contributing to a more prosperous, just, and sustainable future.

As Sampoerna University continues to champion globally relevant education and meaningful collaboration, this partnership with the ASEAN Centre for Energy marks a powerful step forward. By equipping students with hands-on experiences and access to regional platforms, we are shaping future leaders who will drive innovation and sustainability across ASEAN and beyond.

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