In commemoration of the 35th Anniversary of ASEAN-ROK Dialogue Relations, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, participated in a significant Electric Vehicle (EV) delivery ceremony at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Indonesia, located in Bekasi Regency, West Java. This event marked the official handover of a Hyundai EV from the Mission of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to ASEAN to the ASEAN Secretariat, an initiative made possible through the ASEAN-ROK Cooperation Fund (AKCF).
The delivery ceremony underscores the commitment of both ASEAN and ROK to fostering a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation ecosystem in the region. The EV handover forms part of a broader agenda aimed at enhancing the electric vehicle infrastructure and adoption throughout Southeast Asia. The ASEAN Secretariat, based in Jakarta, received the Hyundai EV to facilitate environmentally friendly transport for its staff, aligning with ASEAN’s vision for a greener, more sustainable future.
Following the handover, Dr. Kao participated in a roundtable discussion on the development of the EV ecosystem within ASEAN, highlighting emerging trends, policy innovations, and collaborative opportunities between ASEAN Member States and the Republic of Korea. Organized by the Mission of ROK to ASEAN, the roundtable attracted key stakeholders, including Ambassador of ROK to ASEAN, Lee Jang-keun, members of the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN, and other invited guests, including EV industry experts.
During the roundtable, participants exchanged insights on policy frameworks, market trends, and technical advances in the EV industry. Emphasis was placed on enhancing infrastructure for EVs, including charging networks and cross-border trade standards, which are seen as vital for broader adoption of electric vehicles across ASEAN. The discussions also explored ways the ASEAN-ROK Cooperation Fund could further support EV industry growth in the region.
Ambassador Lee expressed the Republic of Korea’s commitment to ASEAN’s sustainable growth and noted that the collaboration on EVs demonstrates a shared dedication to advancing clean energy solutions. Dr. Kao also highlighted ASEAN’s role in fostering a supportive environment for the EV industry, pointing to the potential economic and environmental benefits for the region.
The event marks another milestone in the ongoing cooperation between ASEAN and ROK, reflecting their commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and sustainability. Both sides expressed optimism about the future of EV development in ASEAN and affirmed their support for initiatives that advance the region’s energy transition.
