M’sia committed to 2050 carbon neutral goal

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is committed to its target of becoming a carbon neutral nation as early as 2050, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

In his speech at the World Environment Day (WED) celebration in Taman Tugu here, the Prime Minister said Malaysia would work with countries with similar visions through the Asia Zero Emission Community.

“In my keynote address at the recent Nikkei Conference in Japan, I gave my commitment that the government will enact climate change-related legislation towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050,” he said.

He added that Malaysia was also committed to preserving its natural forests, which cover more than 50% of its total land mass.

The government, he said, would also implement natural-based solutions to reduce long-term impacts on the environment, including planting 100 million trees by 2025.

Ismail Sabri, who is also Khazanah Nasional Bhd chairman, commended its role in preserving the 26.7ha green lung located near Tugu Negara which offers respite to city dwellers and visitors alike.

Going green: Ismail Sabri with Mah Meri Orang Asli, who promoted their culture through a performance during the WED celebration in Taman Tugu, Kuala Lumpur. — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star

“Taman Tugu symbolises the commitment of all parties to preserve the country’s natural heritage,” he said.

Launched in 2018, Taman Tugu, a non-profit corporate social responsibility initiative led by Khazanah, has attracted over 500,000 visitors to the urban forest park located near Tugu Negara, Kuala Lumpur.

To commemorate the event, Ismail Sabri witnessed the handover of the Taman Tugu land agreement from Kuala Lumpur City Hall to Amanah Warisan Negara.

The national public trust was set up by Khazanah to preserve, conserve, manage and operate Taman Tugu.

The WED celebration yesterday was expected to attract about 3,000 visitors and will continue throughout June with various activities to raise awareness on the conservation, preservation and sustainability of public green spaces.

WED is celebrated annually on June 5 and is the United Nations’ principal vehicle for encouraging awareness and action for the protection of the environment.

Its theme this year is Only One Earth.