KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is doubling down on its efforts to combat climate change with other nations following the United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, says Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (pic).
While expressing respect for the United States’ decision, the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister said global efforts to tackle climate change must continue.
“That is their decision. The world will continue moving forward to find a way to deal with climate change.
“For us, we will increase our efforts with other countries to build a future that is resilient against climate change,” he told a press conference at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) debrief session yesterday.
“Malaysia will also continue to discuss and protect our relationships with our diplomatic partners, including the United States, regardless.”
The session also saw the launch of Malaysia’s United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Participation Report at COP29, which Nik Nazmi hailed as a resounding success.
During the two-week event, Malaysia’s delegation of 313 members ranked 27th among 195 countries, demonstrating its strong commitment to global climate efforts.
“Over two weeks, the Malaysia Pavilion became a hub of collaboration as we secured three memoranda of understanding and partnerships while hosting 188 international and local speakers in 48 talks and events,” Nik Nazmi said at the event.
He also shared plans to leverage Brazil’s expertise in tropical forest conservation at COP30, which will be held in Brazil in November.
Nik Nazmi also highlighted Malaysia’s successful submission of its Biennial Transparency Report to the UNFCCC on Dec 31, as part of its obligations under the Paris Agreement.
“The report provides a transparent account of Malaysia’s greenhouse gas inventory, mitigation measures, and support needs.
“It is a significant milestone in enhancing our climate governance and fostering trust with the global community while underscoring our dedication to transparency and accountability in climate governance.
“It also reflects Malaysia’s proactive approach to addressing climate challenges while aligning with regional and global commitment,” he said.
The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015 by 196 parties, aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C by the end of this century through reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Malaysia ratified the agreement in November 2016.
After being sworn in to a second term on Monday, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the United States to again withdraw from the agreement, echoing his decision in 2017.