SHAH ALAM: Management and Science University (MSU) has launched the Centre for Climate Resilience and Strategy (m-Crest), aiming to tackle escalating climate change issues through applied research.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who officiated the launch, said m-Crest marks a significant milestone in strengthening Malaysia’s capacity to anticipate and adapt to climate risks.
The centre will focus on six major clusters: biodiversity, water and oceans, energy and low carbon, waste and circular economy, health and community resilience, and research and policy.
Fadillah said the centre will serve as a strategic hub for national research, innovation and policy engagement on climate issues, helping Malaysia align with global frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
"Building climate resilience is about protecting our future well-being, preserving natural resources and ensuring equal rights and access for all living beings on this planet.
"I am confident that with continued support and strategic collaboration, this hub will become a catalyst for innovative and practical solutions to enhance the nation’s resilience against the impacts of climate change," he said at the launch on Thursday (Oct 30).
Fadillah added the government will support these efforts through the proposed Climate Change Bill, which will provide a legal framework for mitigation, adaptation, governance and climate finance.
"The Bill will form the foundation for Malaysia’s low-carbon transition and support our goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050," he said.
He also unveiled the Forest Carbon Offset (FCO), a market-based mechanism allowing companies to offset emissions through investments in forest conservation projects, now in its final development phase and expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026.
MSU president and founder Prof Tan Sri Dr Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid said the new centre reflects the university’s long-term commitment to sustainability and resilience.
"Climate change is no longer a distant concern; it is a present reality as we are witnessing its effects with major floods, global warming, stronger storms and rising sea levels disrupting food systems, water supply and urban living.
"So building climate resilience is now more important than ever as a means to safeguard our future well-being, protect natural resources and ensure social equity for all communities," he said.
He explained that m-Crest’s approach will focus on two main strategies: mitigation by reducing the causes of climate change, and adaptation by adjusting systems, infrastructure and lifestyles to live sustainably in a changing climate.
Key focus areas include water conservation, new energy systems, local food systems, education, urban reforestation and developing sustainable walkable communities.
Mohd Shukri added that climate resilience is a shared responsibility, requiring collaboration between the public, private and community sectors.
"As a university, MSU is committed to playing its part: to educate, to innovate and to inspire future leaders and talents who will safeguard our environment.
"Through m-Crest, we renew our shared purpose to support Malaysia’s sustainability vision while contributing meaningfully to the global effort," he said.
Fadillah expressed confidence that m-Crest would soon become a regional benchmark for research and innovation in climate resilience.
"May the launch of m-Crest not merely be symbolic but mark the beginning of a national consensus and a collective, continuous effort to strengthen climate resilience in Malaysia and the region," he said.
