Malaysia’s position at COP29 will reflect the ongoing commitment to balance ambitious climate action with the developmental needs of the region

by AUFA MARDHIAH

AS MALAYSIA prepares for the upcoming 29th Conference of Parties (COP29) summit, the country is set to focus on the pressing issue of climate finance, with particular emphasis on the unfulfilled promises made by developed countries. 

Speaking at the soft launch of Malaysia’s pavilion at the COP29 event today, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (picture) highlighted the importance of addressing these challenges, which have long hindered progress in global climate action.

“The focus this year is on climate finance. As we have seen from ongoing discussions about climate change, there have been many unfulfilled promises from developed countries in terms of climate finance,” he said.

He further noted that Malaysia plans to continue advocating for a just and inclusive transition, ensuring that developing countries, particularly in Asean, are not left behind in the global fight against climate change. 

“We believe that there are a lot of challenges to be dealt with, especially for developing countries like those in Asean, which are highly vulnerable to climate change. 

“At the same time, with our commitment to achieving net zero by 2050, we have set ambitious goals and targets through our national adaptation plan,” he added.

Moreover, Nik Nazmi said Malaysia is also pushing to expand the carbon market to the Asean level, recognising its potential to support both environmental goals and economic growth. 

“We are also expanding the carbon market and bringing it to the Asean level. However, this will not stop us from continuing to involve the developing world in this process,” he explained.

Nik Nazmi also emphasised Malaysia’s stance on the need for an inclusive approach to addressing climate change.

“We do not deny climate change, but we believe there is a more inclusive way to address it, one that does not stop the developing world from enjoying economic progress,” he said.

Malaysia’s position at COP29 will reflect the country’s ongoing commitment to balancing ambitious climate action with the developmental needs of the region.

Nik Nazmi officially launched the pre-event for Malaysia’s Pavilion at the upcoming COP29, set to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from Nov 11 to 22, 2024. 

The Malaysia Pavilion at COP29 will showcase the country’s efforts in tackling climate change and provide opportunities for Malaysian companies to attract investments and foster international collaborations in support of a low-carbon economy.

NRES, which will represent the Malaysian government at COP29, expects to sign several agreements involving both local and international companies during the event.

Additionally, NRES has formed Climate Change Advisory and Consultation Panels, comprising representatives from companies, NGOs, and youth groups, who will participate in programmes at the Malaysia Pavilion.

COP29 is the world’s largest international climate change meeting under the United Nations, where global climate issues will be discussed.