Leaders from 11 member nations of the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) recently reaffirmed their commitment to achieving carbon neutrality while balancing economic growth and energy security. Spearheaded by Japan, AZEC is dedicated to leading Southeast Asia's transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy alternatives. The community has initiated numerous projects, including green hydrogen production in Malaysia and sustainable aviation fuel development in Indonesia, showcasing its role in addressing environmental challenges through innovation and collaboration. AZEC's strategy focuses on decarbonizing key sectors by prioritizing renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean alternatives like hydrogen and ammonia. Collaborations like the green hydrogen project in Malaysia, aiming to produce 8,000 tons of green hydrogen annually, demonstrate the potential for cleaner fuels in domestic and international markets. AZEC recognizes the diversity of its member nations and tailors its approach to each country's specific energy needs and capacities. Public-private partnerships, particularly driven by Japan, play a crucial role in fostering innovation and creating new markets for renewable energy technologies. While reducing emissions is a priority, AZEC also emphasizes sustainable economic growth, believing that environmental responsibility can coexist with economic development in the rapidly growing Southeast Asian region.