Jakarta, May 12, 2023 – The commitment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to establish an electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem has been hailed as a highly commendable move by Ropiudin, a researcher from General Soedirman University (Unsoed) in Purwokerto.
"The ASEAN agreement to develop an electric vehicle ecosystem is a step in the right direction and should be welcomed," stated Ropiudin, who was reached out to in Jakarta on Friday (5/12/2023).
According to him, the development of the electric vehicle ecosystem in the ASEAN region is both crucial and beneficial in the joint effort to preserve the environment and reduce air pollution.
The senior researcher in the laboratory of thermal system engineering and renewable energy at Unsoed further added that electric vehicles utilizing energy generated from renewable sources like solar power, wind, water, geothermal, or biomass could significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.
However, Aliansi Dosen Nahada (ADN) Jateng-DIY's Research Head also highlighted some challenges faced in the development of the electric vehicle ecosystem. These include the higher price of electric vehicles compared to conventional ones and the necessity for an enhanced battery charging infrastructure.
"Thus, efforts are needed to enhance the accessibility and affordability of electric vehicles while expanding battery charging infrastructure," he mentioned.
Ropiudin also emphasized that the transportation sector remains a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. He stressed the importance of stimulating electric vehicle adoption to achieve global emission reduction targets.
Nevertheless, he pointed out that this action must be seen holistically, considering the availability and sustainability of the energy resources used for electricity production.
At the conclusion of the 42nd ASEAN Summit 2023, President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, asserted that among the three key points of the agreement reached, one is the strengthening of economic cooperation. He noted that ASEAN has concurred to establish an electric vehicle ecosystem, which forms an integral part of the global supply chain, thus making industrial downstreaming pivotal.
The second agreement pertains to the safeguarding of migrant workers and victims of human trafficking. The third point is ASEAN's resolute declaration that any violation of humanitarian values cannot be tolerated. The Five-point Consensus mandates ASEAN's engagement with all stakeholders. Inclusivity must remain steadfastly upheld by ASEAN, as its credibility is currently at stake.