The International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA) Responsible Care® Leadership Group (RCLG) held its 2025 meeting on October 20-21 at the Sofitel Nusa Dua Hotel in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia, bringing leaders together to reinforce engagement and cooperation throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Chaired by Mr. Jeff Kovacs of ExxonMobil and Mr. Yoshizumi Sasaki of Sumitomo Chemical, the two-day event included both onsite meetings and virtual participation through Zoom. Chairman Kovacs welcomed new regular members and congratulated the diverse Asia-Pacific chemical community on the continued advancement of Responsible Care programs.

Opening the morning session, RCI Chairman, Mr. Edi Rivai, addressed delegates and highlighted Indonesia’s important contribution towards chemical safety and sustainability in the region.

During the first day, delegates from Japan, Indonesia, Taiwan, China, Sri Lanka, Singapore, and the Philippines presented comprehensive reports on their individual Responsible Care efforts where regional cooperation is taking place. Engr. Gretchen F. Enarle, SPIK President, provided an update emphasizing the importance of the association’s advocacy programs on regulatory, sustainability, safety, and environmental protection.

SPIK delegates joining the SPIK President were Director Romeo Dela Cruz, Director Reinier Jay Bagabay, Ms. Antonette Fallarme and former VP External Affairs Engr. Albert Samuela.

Day 2 saw engagement with global action on GFC update, drug precursor legislation, communication strategies, and progress report on the Africa Task Force. While addressing practical issues, such as scam awareness work and KPI analysis tracking for the industry, the RCLG is developing measurability frameworks aligned with the principles of Responsible Care and introducing a 30 x 30 initiative to further extend RC reach.

Vice Chair Sasaki and other leaders provided updates on the progress of the Self-Assessment Tool development, while Chair Kovacs led a discussion on the 2025 work plan and budget issues to continue laying out the path for growth and impact.

Concluding the meeting, Chairman Kovacs spoke of the fortitude and tenacity of the members and of having faith that RCLG can continue to bring innovation, safety, and sustainability into the Asia-Pacific chemicals supply chain. Vice Chairman Sasaki agreed, emphasizing the strength found when working together with common goals towards the Responsible Care spirit.

The 2025 RCLG meeting in Bali reiterated the joint commitment of business and government leaders in the region to support the highest standards of chemical stewardship, while continuing regional collaboration to address evolving challenges in health, safety, and environmental excellence.