2024 OCT 9 | Keynote Address for COP29 Soft Launch
MINISTER OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
FOR
COP29 SOFT LAUNCH
9 OCTOBER 2024 (WEDNESDAY)
INTERNATIONAL GREENTECH AND ECO PRODUCTS
EXHIBITION AND CONFERENCE MALAYSIA
KUALA LUMPUR CONVENTION CENTRE
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh and Salam Malaysia Madani
1. YB Dato' Sri Huang Tiong Sii
Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability
2. YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo a/l Kim
Secretary General
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability
3. YBhg. Datuk Nor Yahati binti Awang
Deputy Secretary General (Environmental Sustainability)
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability
4. YBrs. Ir. Ts. Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor
Group CEO
Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation
5. Representatives from ministries, the private sector, NGOs and our
strategic partners;
6. Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen
INTRODUCTION
1. It is my great pleasure to welcome all of you to this highly anticipated moment - the soft launch of the Malaysia Pavilion at COP29. We stand at a critical juncture, and this pavilion represents a bold step in our ongoing commitment to climate action.
2. As we gather today, we align ourselves with this year's COP29 theme: "In Solidarity for a Green World". Malaysia is proud to participate in this global initiative with the theme "Shift for Sustainability: Climate Action Now" - reflecting our determination to drive meaningful and impactful climate action.
NATIONAL EFFORTS TOWARDS ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE
Ladies and gentlemen,
3. While our share of global emissions may be small, our commitment to climate action is nothing short of bold. We are not just participants in the global fight against climate change—we are determined to be leaders in shaping a sustainable, low-carbon future for generations to come. Our ambition is clear – to achieve net zero GHG emissions by 2050, in line with our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).
4. To further solidify our commitment, we have launched the National Climate Change Policy 2.0 on 30 September 2024. This new framework sets the foundation for Malaysia’s transition to a low-carbon economy and reaffirms our dedication to meeting our climate targets.
Beyond this, we are actively working on developing a comprehensive Climate Change Act, along with policies on carbon pricing, a national carbon market, and a National Adaptation Plan. These efforts will strengthen our resilience and contribute to global climate security.
MALAYSIA'S LEADERSHIP IN CLIMATE ACTION
Ladies and gentlemen,
5. As we prepare to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, Malaysia is taking significant leadership in driving the global and regional climate agenda. Our participation at COP29 demonstrates our dedication to implementing a whole-of-nation approach to climate action. This is more than just a statement; it's a promise of action.
6. Malaysia is committed to ambitious climate goals, with sustainability deeply embedded in our national narrative. The pavilion you will see at COP29 embodies this commitment. It represents a collective effort of Malaysians working towards a sustainable future, leading the way with actionable and measurable steps. Our Pavilion at COP29 will serve as a testament to our leadership, showcasing our innovative approaches towards sustainable development.
7. Most importantly, success at COP29 is not merely a destination but the foundation for continued achievements at COP30 and beyond. The momentum we build now will define our trajectory in the global arena.
KEY PRIORITIES FOR MALAYSIA AT COP29
Ladies and gentlemen,
8. As we prepare for COP29, Malaysia is stepping onto the global stage with clear and focused objectives. One of our top priorities is strengthening climate commitments by setting ambitious, actionable targets that align with both national and global climate goals. We recognise the urgency of these efforts and are committed to playing an active role in shaping a sustainable future.
9. 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. Ensuring the availability of these resources is key to implementing effective climate solutions and achieving our environmental goals.
10. As we transition toward a net zero future, it is essential that this shift is a just transition, creating opportunities for economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, as the incoming ASEAN chair, Malaysia is poised to lead the region in fostering stronger cooperation, ensuring that our collective voice is amplified in the pursuit of climate solutions that benefit
all.
THE JOURNEY OF THE MALAYSIA PAVILION
Ladies and gentlemen,
11. The journey towards this pavilion began with a singular vision - a clear direction for Malaysia in our sustainability efforts. Through focus group discussions, we engaged a wide range of stakeholders - policymakers, government agencies, GLCs, private businesses, NGOs, and passionate individuals. This inclusive approach has ensured that the pavilion reflects diverse perspectives and the true spirit of collaboration.
12. From over 90 identified initiatives, we have selected a focused, impactful 30 initiatives to be showcased over 11 days in Baku, Azerbaijan. These initiatives illustrate Malaysia's unwavering ambition to shift towards a sustainable future and achieve net zero emissions by 2050.
GALLERY WALK AND FEEDBACK
13. Today, you will have the opportunity to view the outcomes of the focus group discussions, which have shaped the initiatives you'll see at the Malaysian Pavilion. We value your feedback and encourage you to share suggestions on how we can further elevate the value and impact of our presence at COP29.
14. It is crucial that we keep the public informed about the mission and vision behind the Malaysia Pavilion, ensuring that we achieve meaningful and measurable outcomes from our participation.
15. As we move forward, we hope that COP29 in Baku will be a pivotal moment in our collective climate action efforts and will be the foundation for Malaysia to continue our pathway in COP30 in Belem, Brazil. Let it serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue, strengthened commitments, and concrete actions that drive global progress.
16. We are confident that with strong collaboration and shared determination, Baku will mark a significant step towards a more sustainable and resilient future for all. Thank you.