THE NETHERLANDS TO WORK CLOSELY WITH MALAYSIA ON WATER, ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- The Netherlands will continue to work closely with Malaysia toward achieving the agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.

Deputy Ambassador of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Malaysia, Eva Oskam, said this is notably in the areas of climate resilience (SDG13) and water management (SDG6).

The Netherlands is well known for water management. 

“Twenty six per cent of the country is situated below sea level, so being an expert in water is a necessity for life in the Netherlands.

“In line with this SDG 13 and 6, The Netherlands works closely with Malaysia towards climate resilience and water management,” she said in an event to celebrate the 9th SDG Day at Dataran DBKL, here, Wednesday. 

Oskam also highlighted on the needs and stronger cooperation from all parties to intensify efforts to achieve the SDGs.

“As we are past the halfway point, we must acknowledge the distance yet to be covered in our journey towards these goals. 

“The world is facing unprecedented challenges, and while progress has been made, it is clear that we are not on track to achieve the SDGs by 2030. This calls for renewed dedication, innovation, and determination,” she said. 

Besides SDG13 and 6, the embassy also partnered with various local organisations on SDG5 on gender equality and SDG8 to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

On SDG 3 which focuses on good health and well-being, she said a Dutch company is taking the lead in Cameron Highlands in producing pesticide free crops in a green house.

“Together, we can find innovative solutions, promote inclusive practices, and advocate for policies that create positive change,” she said. 

The event, co-organised by the Embassy, and Local Agenda 21 (LA21), was participated by 128 students from four local schools under the “Sekolah Mampan” programme, and is aimed at raising awareness about sustainability and environmental issues among the younger generation in line with the SDGs. 

Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif also participated in the event. 

Participants also took part in various activities, including throwing of mudballs made through an initiative for World River Day by Jungle Ambassador NGO into the Klang River to symbolised efforts to combat river pollution. 

-- BERNAMA