Government Committed to National ESG Development
Minister Nik Nazmi: Climate Change is Real, No Matter Who the American President is
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad emphasized the government’s commitment to national environmental, social, and governance (ESG) development, despite concerns that the newly elected Trump administration in the US may dismantle ESG regulations.
Climate Change Impact on Malaysia
Nik Nazmi highlighted the impact of climate change on Malaysia, citing examples such as villages on the East Coast being swallowed by the sea and seawater in the drains in Klang. He emphasized that climate change is real and has significant effects on the environment and society, impacting businesses as well.
National Climate Change Bill and Stakeholder Engagement
The National Climate Change Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament by the first quarter of 2025. Nik Nazmi emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement, stating that the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry is conducting stakeholder engagement sessions and producing consultation papers for public comment until November 18.
Nature-Based Solutions
Nik Nazmi highlighted the importance of nature-based solutions in addressing climate change, citing the protection and restoration of forests, wetlands, and coastal ecosystems as crucial natural buffers against climate impacts.
Biodiversity Centre and Natural History Museum
Nik Nazmi announced plans to establish a biodiversity centre and natural history museum, with a development budget of RM140 million. He emphasized the need for private-public partnership to secure additional funding and commitments from big companies to create a state-of-the-art centre.
Importance of a National Biodiversity Centre
Nik Nazmi highlighted the need for a national biodiversity centre, citing the lack of such a centre in Malaysia despite being a megadiverse country. He emphasized the centre’s core functions, including scientific collections and biodiversity databases, scientific research, advanced training, exhibitions, and advisory services.
Conclusion
The government’s commitment to national ESG development is evident in its efforts to address climate change, protect and restore natural ecosystems, and establish a national biodiversity centre. Despite concerns about the impact of the Trump administration on ESG regulations, the government remains committed to its goals.
FAQs
Q: What is the government’s stance on climate change?
A: The government recognizes climate change as a real and pressing issue, with significant effects on the environment and society.
Q: What is the National Climate Change Bill?
A: The National Climate Change Bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament by the first quarter of 2025, outlining the government’s strategy for addressing climate change.
Q: What is the importance of nature-based solutions?
A: Nature-based solutions are crucial in addressing climate change, as they provide natural buffers against climate impacts and help maintain the delicate balance of the climate.
Q: What is the plan for the biodiversity centre and natural history museum?
A: The government has allocated RM140 million for the development of the biodiversity centre and natural history museum, with plans for private-public partnership to secure additional funding and commitments from big companies.