Research Activities
Research Projects 2026
The Policy Trilemma of Decarbonization in the Asia-Pacific Region: Policy and Institutional Developments in Indonesia and Malaysia
Outline
In recent years, decarbonization has accelerated across the Asia-Pacific region. At the same time, significant policy trade-offs have emerged between climate mitigation efforts and the need to ensure stable energy supply and maintain industrial competitiveness. In many Global South countries, these challenges are compounded by continued dependence on fossil fuel industries, the need for economic development, and concerns over social equity. As a result, the design of decarbonization policies often faces a complex policy dilemma.
This project focuses on the trilemma among decarbonization, economic growth, and economic security, examining policy and institutional developments in Indonesia and Malaysia. Both countries possess abundant fossil fuel resources such as coal and natural gas while also pursuing renewable energy expansion and green industrial strategies. Consequently, balancing decarbonization policies with economic development has become a critical policy challenge.
Through policy analysis and field interviews, this study will examine policy trends and institutional frameworks related to decarbonization and energy transition. The project will also provide insights into the policy and regulatory environment relevant to Japanese companies considering business engagement in the region. In collaboration with JETRO headquarters and overseas offices, the study will collect local information and contribute policy-relevant insights that support stronger economic cooperation between Japan and Global South countries.
Period
April 2026 - March 2027
Members
| Role | Member |
|---|---|
| [ Organizer ] | Cheng, Fang-Ting |
| [ Co-researcher ] | Aoki, Miri |
| [ Co-researcher ] | Sato, Yukihito |
| [ Co-researcher ] | Mori, Akihisa(Kyoto University) |
| [ Co-researcher ] | Hattori, Takashi(Kyoto Institute of Economic Research) |
| [ Co-researcher ] | Josephine Lai Chang Hui(Universiti Malaysia Sarawak) |
| [ Co-researcher ] | Shanti Faridah binti Salleh(Universiti Malaysia Sarawak) |
*Affiliations are as of April 2026.
Expected Outcome
- Symposium, Policy Brief