Malaysia’s participation at the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC-COP28) has paved the way for significant strides in combating climate change and fostering international partnerships. Hosted by the United Arab Emirates government in Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023, the event served as a platform for Malaysia to showcase its dedication to environmental sustainability and global cooperation.
Themed “Going Beyond: Green Growth, Resilient Community, and Sustainable Planet,” the Malaysia Pavilion emerged as a beacon of collaboration, featuring 138 international and local speakers and hosting 60 side events. The pavilion also facilitated the signing of 17 Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and partnerships, reflecting Malaysia’s commitment to forging alliances for a sustainable future.
During COP28, Malaysia announced potential business leads amounting to US$9 billion, underscoring the nation’s readiness to embrace green growth opportunities. This historic achievement not only highlights Malaysia’s economic potential but also reinforces its commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, emphasised the importance of partnerships forged and opportunities unlocked during COP28 in charting Malaysia’s course towards a high-value, high-knowledge, and high-wage economy. His vision emphasises the integration of innovation, sustainability, and economic prosperity.
The panel discussions during COP28 delved into crucial topics, including the COP28 decision as part of the UAE Consensus. Malaysia’s national negotiator team actively participated in negotiations on various fronts, including global stocktake, mitigation, adaptation, loss and damage, climate financing, just transition, and carbon market.
In line with its commitment to combat climate change, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability unveiled ongoing efforts to develop the Climate Change Bill. The proposed legislation aims to address climate change issues comprehensively and strengthen existing policies related to climate change through extensive stakeholder engagement.
Malaysia has proactively formulated the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Roadmap and Long-term low emissions development strategies (LT-LEDS) to align national goals with global efforts to combat climate change. The forthcoming National Adaptation Plan reflects Malaysia’s dedication to safeguarding the nation against the impacts of climate change.
The Ministry emphasised the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, echoing a central theme that surfaced at COP28. The dynamic involvement of private-sector stakeholders at the Malaysia Pavilion underscores Malaysia’s collaborative spirit in addressing environmental challenges.
Looking ahead, Malaysia eagerly awaits COP29, set to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan. The nation remains committed to playing a pivotal role in shaping a more resilient and environmentally conscious world, reaffirming its dedication to sustainable development and global cooperation.
