SEPANG: Aviation players must urgently adopt sustainable practices to face the threat of climate change, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
He said while an international framework for the aviation industry’s green transition was in place, regulators must foster an environment that champions and expedites its effective implementation.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure aviation evolves sustainably, efficiently and safely. These are goals that Malaysia is deeply committed to,” he said at the opening of CAPA Asia Aviation Summit on Thursday (Nov 2).
Loke cited Malaysia Airports for being at the forefront of sustainable practices, including the production of solar power at various key airports, demonstrating dedication to transitioning towards a sustainable, low-carbon future within the aviation sector.
“Our goal is to address the pressing issue of carbon emissions while positioning Malaysia as a hub for sustainable aviation solutions.
“Our vision for the Malaysian aviation sector is deeply rooted in sustainability. It is outlined in the National Transport Policy (NTP) 2019-2030, which emphasises the efficient and sustainable use of resources while minimising environmental pollution,” he said.
Loke said the ministry was also looking at operations efficiency, in addition to the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
“We are doing our level best to help airlines in terms of operations efficiency.
We are actively engaging the airlines on what we can do as authorities, at the air traffic management level and airports, to increase efficiency for airlines so they can reduce their carbon footprint,” he said.
Loke said the Malaysian aviation industry had shown resilience and adaptability during the Covid-19 pandemic, which had caused financial and operational strain, and had forced the industry around the world to adapt and innovate.
He said following the full reopening of international borders, international passenger traffic had grown at an average of 80.9% quarter-on-quarter for Malaysia.
The approved international Air Traffic Rights also saw a year-on-year increase of 246.1%, underscoring the steady revival of the international market, he added.
Total passenger traffic stood at 73.0% of pre-pandemic level in 2019.
"This resurgence is a testament to the tremendous potential of the aviation sector in Malaysia and the region," said Loke.
