Southeast Asian nations have entered a period of intensive energy conservation as supply instability stemming from the Middle East drags on. Governments across the region are directing public institutions and offices to maintain air conditioning temperatures at or above certain levels in a bid to curb electricity use.
According to Bloomberg on Wednesday, Thailand recommended early last month that public institutions keep cooling temperatures at 26 to 27 degrees Celsius, while the Philippines and Malaysia have implemented measures restricting settings to 24 degrees or higher.
However, with a recent heat wave pushing temperatures to between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius, complaints about indoor heat are mounting. Some office workers are flocking to convenience stores and commercial facilities, saying these venues are cooler than their workplaces.
The inconvenience from cooling restrictions is becoming tangible on the ground. More workers are buying fans and personal cooling devices to cope, while workplace environments are shifting rapidly, with breathable clothing replacing formal suits as a de facto requirement.
Telework and Four-Day Workweek: Energy Emergency Expands Across Southeast Asia
Governments are rolling out stronger energy-saving measures beyond cooling restrictions. Thailand is expanding telework and cutting back on business travel, and is considering lighting restrictions and regulations on gas station operations should conditions worsen.
Vietnam, responding to a surge in fuel prices, is strongly urging businesses and citizens to conserve, while encouraging greater use of public transportation and remote work. In some regions, fuel shortages have already led to long lines at gas stations and suspended operations, with supply concerns becoming visible. The Philippines is likewise focusing on curbing fuel consumption by reducing workdays at public institutions and minimizing travel.
Singapore has adopted more granular controls, managing not only cooling temperatures but also lighting and elevator operating hours, while offering incentives to promote purchases of high-efficiency appliances.
"The combined impact of the heat wave and energy crisis is significantly magnifying the burden felt by the public," experts said. "This is a moment that calls for structural energy response strategies beyond short-term conservation policies."
