The ESG Symposium 2026 is shifting from a dialogue forum to a regional action platform, aiming to drive an inclusive green transition across ASEAN. Under the theme “ASEAN in Action: Powering Inclusive Green Transition,” the Symposium builds on last year’s proposals to advance three key agendas: Energy Transition, Just Transition, and Climate Adaptation. It links these agendas with Public–Private–People Partnership (4P) collaboration to move from policy to implementation in business and communities, bringing lessons from Thailand to other ASEAN contexts.
Organized by SCG with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and partners, the Symposium connects leaders from government, business, finance, international organizations, and academia. It addresses ASEAN’s challenges: energy security, climate adaptation, and creating a green economy with green jobs. As reported by Media OutReach Newswire, the event underscores the region’s commitment to scalable solutions.
Mr. Joe Phelan, Executive Director – Asia Pacific at WBCSD, said, “The sustainability transition is linked to competitiveness, security and investment, which presents both a significant challenge and an important opportunity for ASEAN. The key lies in connecting policy, investment, technology and people through collaboration.” In Thailand, the business sector’s role is crucial, particularly in helping SMEs adapt. Dr. Phacharaphot Nuntramas, Krungthai Chief Economist & JSCCIB Economist, noted, “Thailand must use the Green Transition as an opportunity to enhance its competitiveness and attract future investment. The key is end-to-end implementation, creating an inclusive transition in which large businesses help upgrade SMEs in their supply chains.”
The three agendas reflect progress and new challenges. On Energy Transition, discussions move toward enhancing grid capacity, adjusting the Power Development Plan, and exploring new technologies like Small Modular Reactors and biofuels. Dr. Areeporn Asawinpongphan of TDRI proposed an energy system balancing security, cost, and decarbonization, with increased solar and bioenergy, grid upgrades, and market liberalization.
For Just Transition, new approaches include Funding Connect and SME Green Transition Plus to help SMEs access knowledge, technology, funding, and markets. Mr. Veerachai Monsintorn of FTI suggested tailored support starting with a pilot group to create a comprehensive prototype, then scaling up so entrepreneurs, workers, and communities can grow together.
On Climate Adaptation, the focus extends to an AI Simulation Platform for flood risk assessment, with plans for public access and ASEAN-level risk mapping. Asst. Prof. Dr. Pongsak Suttinon of Chulalongkorn University proposed shifting from post-disaster response to advance preparedness, developing a One Water Data Center and dual-use infrastructure, and moving toward a Water Economy.
Mr. Thammasak Sethaudom, President and CEO of SCG, said, “From the proposals and actions of the past year, we now see clear progress across all three agendas. The key challenge today is to scale up more broadly. The 4P model can deliver real results: the public sector creates conditions, the private sector brings technology and capital, and the people’s sector defines needs.” Drawing on lessons from Saraburi Province, SCG aims to scale this model to other areas and countries, accelerating change and building a competitive economy while addressing climate change.
