Kuala Lumpur to Host Oil & Gas Asia 2026 as Southeast Asian Energy Sector Eyes Major Growth

Kuala Lumpur to Host Oil & Gas Asia 2026 as Southeast Asian Energy Sector Eyes Major Growth

Kuala Lumpur is preparing to become the focal point for Southeast Asia's energy industry as Oil & Gas Asia (OGA) 2026 returns to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from 2 to 4 September. The three-day event, organised by Informa Markets Malaysia, will bring together more than 30,000 industry professionals, 2,000 participating brands and companies, and representatives from over 80 countries.

The timing reflects Southeast Asia's growing importance in global energy markets. While the region accounts for 9% of the world's population and 4% of global GDP, it is projected to contribute nearly 20% of global energy demand growth to 2035, according to the International Energy Agency's Southeast Asia Energy Outlook 2026 released in June 2026. This strategic significance is attracting substantial capital, with total energy investment in the region exceeding USD 100 billion in 2025, representing a 30% increase from the previous year.

The expansion underscores a broader regional transformation. Electricity demand has grown at 6% annually since 2015, outpacing overall energy demand growth of 4%, and now represents more than 20% of total final consumption across Southeast Asia. Eight out of eleven ASEAN countries have announced economy-wide net zero emissions targets, while renewable capacity stood at 120 GW in 2024 and is projected to nearly triple by 2035 under current policy settings.

Held under the theme "Powering Progress, Shaping Tomorrow," the 22nd edition of OGA emphasises connectivity across the energy value chain. The previous edition facilitated more than USD 42 million in business deals, demonstrating the platform's commercial impact beyond networking.

Southeast Asia's energy sector is entering a pivotal period of growth and transformation. Meeting the region's future energy needs will require closer collaboration across the entire value chain – from policymakers and producers to technology providers, investors and innovators.

Gerard Leeuwenburgh, Country General Manager of Informa Markets Malaysia, emphasized the collaborative nature required for the region's energy transition.

PETRONAS returns as Corporate Partner for the fifth consecutive edition. The Malaysian national oil company has committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with intermediate targets to build 30-40 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and pursue up to 1.2 million tonnes per annum of hydrogen production by 2030. Representatives will be available at the PETRONAS booth in Hall 1 to discuss licensing opportunities and partnerships across the energy ecosystem.

Malaysian OGSE Sector Takes Centre Stage

Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation (MPRC), established in April 2011 as an agency of the Ministry of Economy, highlighted OGA's strategic role in advancing the country's oil, gas and services equipment sector. Malaysia's OGSE industry contributes between 5% and 8% to national GDP, employs over 59,000 skilled workers, and comprises more than 4,000 vendors, with the majority being local small and medium enterprises. In 2023, the sector recorded its highest revenue at RM 83.9 billion, approximately USD 19.7 billion.

OGA brings together key energy industry players under one roof, creating meaningful opportunities for collaboration, innovation and business growth. As the National OGSE Development Partner, MPRC is proud to be part of the journey as Malaysia's OGSE companies take their place on the regional stage.

Mohd Yazid Ja'afar, President and CEO of MPRC, highlighted the corporation's role in the sector's development. The corporation launched the National OGSE Industry Blueprint 2021-2030, with a Mid-Term Review released in March 2025.

Country pavilions from Australia, China, Germany, India, Italy, Singapore, South Korea and the United Kingdom will showcase technologies and solutions spanning upstream, midstream and downstream operations, digitalisation and emerging energy technologies. The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, recognised as one of the best convention centres in Asia, offers over 34,000 square metres of flexible event space, including two auditoria, a Grand Ballroom, eight exhibition halls and 28 meeting rooms.

Knowledge Programme Addresses Industry Priorities

Beyond the exhibition floor, OGA 2026 will host a comprehensive knowledge programme anchored by SPEAK OGA, EIC Connect OGA and MOGSEC. SPEAK OGA, the event's flagship free-to-attend knowledge platform, will convene industry experts and decision-makers to explore trends, technologies and priorities shaping energy's future. Its C-Suite Series will feature senior industry figures sharing career-defining moments and leadership insights.

Organised in partnership with the Energy Industries Council, EIC Connect OGA will provide market intelligence, project insights and emerging opportunities while facilitating connections between companies and key decision-makers across the international energy supply chain.

Co-located with OGA and held in partnership with Malaysian Oil, Gas & Energy Services Council, MOGSEC will focus on Malaysia's OGSE sector, addressing challenges, unlocking growth opportunities and strengthening capabilities in an increasingly competitive energy landscape.

Together, these platforms position OGA beyond a traditional exhibition, creating a convergence point for business, policy, technology and cross-border collaboration. Visitor registration is now open at www.oilandgas-asia.com for industry professionals seeking to participate in shaping Southeast Asia's energy future.