Natural Resources and Environment Sustainability (NRES) Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad emphasised the critical role of sustainable environmental initiatives in driving economic growth whereby while economic development is essential, it should not come at the expense of environmental degradation.
He said this in reply to a question raised by Datuk Ahmad Datuk Sri Ibrahim in Parliament today (Mar 21) on the extent to which sustainable environmental development initiatives, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contribute to the country’s economic growth.
In a written parliament reply, Nik Nazmi said: “Efforts to drive the country’s economic growth have, to some extent, had a negative impact on the environment.
Therefore, a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation needs to be achieved so that both the current and future generations can enjoy natural resources alongside national development.”
NRES reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by environmental sustainability. Various policies and initiatives have been implemented to achieve environmental sustainability in line with the SDGs.
One of the key initiatives mentioned was the recent amendment to the Environmental Quality Act 1974, aimed at strengthening penalties for environmental offenses and improving enforcement mechanisms.
Additionally, efforts to manage waste, particularly electronic and plastic waste, have been intensified to promote recycling and reduce environmental pollution.
Furthermore, the government has introduced strategic plans such as the Malaysia Roadmap to Zero Single-Use Plastics 2018-2030 and the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021-2030.
These initiatives aim to reduce the use of single-use plastics and tackle plastic pollution through the implementation of circular economy models.
NRES emphasised the importance of striking a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. By adopting a balanced approach, the country can achieve sustainable and long-term economic growth while safeguarding the environment for future generations.
“By adopting a balanced approach between economic development and environmental sustainability, the country can achieve sustainable and long-lasting growth in the long term,” Nik Nazmi added.
