OPENING CEREMONY OF MALAYSIA PAVILION

[SALUTATION] Esteemed guests, distinguished speakers, ladies and gentlemen,

INTRODUCTION

1. It is my privilege to welcome all delegates to the Malaysia Pavilion at the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) here in Baku, Azerbaijan.

2. It is inspiring to see such a remarkable assembly of stakeholders from diverse sectors—Malaysia and abroad—representing key ministries, government agencies, state authorities, private sectors, financial institutions, non-profit organisations, and youth advocates. This strong participation reflects our shared commitment to Malaysia's climate goals and to advancing sustainable initiatives globally.

3. Your presence here is vital as we work together and witness Malaysia’s commitment to climate ambitions towards net zero by 2050. We aim to establish a bold and strategic pathway to enhance our nation's commitments and actions, setting a solid foundation for transformative progress over the coming decade.

4. At COP29, we aim to ensure that each step reflects our shared values and commitment to a prosperous and sustainable future. Together, we are advancing climate action and setting the stage for meaningful progress that will propel Malaysia forward.

MALAYSIA’S COMMITMENT IN UNFCCC-COP29

Ladies and gentlemen,

5. At COP29, Malaysia focuses on several key global climate initiatives that are crucial to its participation in the broader UNFCCC negotiation framework. These include the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG), the Loss and Damage Fund, the implementation of Article 6 carbon market mechanism, and the Global Goal on Adaptation.

6. This year, we remain committed to our ambitious climate goals, with sustainability deeply embedded in our national narrative—"Shift for Sustainability: Climate Action Now!" This aligns seamlessly with Malaysia’s broader climate objectives and is in line with the theme for ASEAN Chairmanship 2025, which is “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”

7. As we hold the chairmanship of ASEAN next year, we are responsible for setting the right precedent in driving transboundary collaboration. We are dedicated to strengthening cooperation across ASEAN, recognising that our environmental challenges are interconnected. We aim to enhance our region’s resilience, support sustainable economic growth, and establish climate-conscious policies that serve the people and economies of all member countries.

8. In addition, climate finance remains a critical focus. We must advocate for greater access to financial resources and technology, particularly for developing countries like Malaysia and our fellow ASEAN members. Access to adequate financial resources is critical to implementing effective climate solutions and achieving sustainable goals.

MALAYSIA PAVILION - SEVEN PILLARS FOR SUSTAINABLE TRANSFORMATION

Ladies and gentlemen,

9. Our participation at COP 29 demonstrates our dedication to implementing a whole-of-nation approach to climate action. The Malaysia Pavilion embodies this commitment. It represents a collective effort of Malaysians and international partners working towards a sustainable future, leading the way with actionable and measurable steps. Malaysia Pavilion at COP29 will serve as a testament to our leadership, showcasing our innovative approaches towards sustainable development.

10. This unified approach is essential for addressing climate challenges while fostering international cooperation. The global climate crisis calls for solidarity, and by engaging with international partners, we amplify our climate leadership, exchanging knowledge and cultivating innovative solutions.

11. The impacts of the global climate crisis extend beyond borders, and addressing it requires a united response. Hence, we have structured our climate strategy around seven thematic pillars for sustainable transformation, taking a holistic approach to Malaysia’s key climate action areas. These pillars address critical areas such as climate finance and resilience, driving sustainable development and fostering climate resilience.

12. The Malaysia Pavilion is designed to facilitate knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation. Over the next two weeks, more than 170 distinguished speakers, panellists, and participants will engage in discussions and bilateral meetings to advance productive exchanges with international counterparts.
 

13. In this regard, I want to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our strategic partners, advisory and consultative panel members, stakeholders, local and international speakers, and most importantly all of you who are presence here today. Thank you and terima kasih.

14. Together, we make COP29 a transformative milestone on our shared journey toward sustainable development and climate action. May this conference set the stage for continued success at COP30 and beyond. With every step we take today, we are shifting the course of our future, transforming sustainability and climate action into lasting change that will benefit all.
 

15. With that, I hereby declare the Malaysia Pavilion at the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change officially open.

Thank you.

11 November 2024
Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan