MALAYSIA SETS BOLD CLIMATE AGENDA AT COP29, PAVES WAY FOR ASEAN'S SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

From Samantha Tan Chiew Tieng

BAKU (Azerbaijan), Nov 14 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's participation in the 29th Conference of Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is timely to bolster its sustainability foothold as the country assumes the ASEAN chair next year.

As ASEAN chair, Malaysia is poised to take a leading and crucial role in advancing climate agendas both regionally and globally as well as driving greater inclusivity and sustainability, championing a nation-focused narrative that elevates regional voices at COP29, from Nov 11 to 22.

Malaysia vowed to strive for net-zero global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, an ambitious leap that reflects its determination to act now.

Furthermore, through COP29, Malaysia also seeks to position itself as a prime investment hub for green projects by fostering supportive policies and embracing a collaborative mindset, paving the way for sustainable growth and innovation.

Malaysia is set to showcase its key climate action milestones, advocate for stronger intergovernmental cooperation on green initiatives, and promote the country's advanced sustainable practices on the global stage at its dedicated Malaysia Pavilion at COP29 built around the theme "Shift for Sustainability: Climate Action Now!".

The effort also fully aligned with Malaysia's broader climate objectives and supports the 2025 ASEAN chairmanship's theme, "Inclusivity and Sustainability".

With the leading role, Malaysia also called for enhanced cooperation among ASEAN member states as well as urging more decisive action on key areas namely sustainable development, environmental protection and social equity, in line with the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 to drive the region's progress towards achieving the net-zero goals.

The 250-member Malaysian delegation, led by Natural Resources and Environment Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, comprises policymakers, government agencies, government-linked companies (GLCs), private businesses, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and youth representatives.

This year at COP29, Malaysia is ready to tackle transformation head-on, no matter the obstacles, focusing on seven cores towards achieving net-zero emissions and reinforcing national sustainability. The areas are finance and economy; trade and industry; natural resources; energy; tech and innovation; sustainable development; and youth and adaptation.

Through these strategic clusters, Malaysia will showcase its areas of interest, leadership in climate action, solidify its climate leadership, bolster international partnerships, and invite investments that align with the country's green growth strategy.

Since 2010, Malaysia's green economy has attracted over RM10 billion in investments and created 5,579 green jobs through the Green Technology Financial Scheme (GTFS). 

The Malaysia Pavilion at COP29 will be spearheaded by the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES), in collaboration with the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) as the executing agency. 

-- BERNAMA