Budget 2027 must tackle environmental challenges at their source

BUDGET 2027 (tabled on Oct 9, 2026) proudly mentions Malaysia as one of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries, home to nearly 70% of the world’s known species of flora and fauna, and reports that 54.4% of our land remains under forest cover. The return of a leatherback turtle to nest on our shores after nine years away is also celebrated.

Rich nature is not only an endearing feature of Malaysia. It is the very life beat of our nation. Nature provides critical infrastructure we need, silently providing the very services that our lives, livelihoods, and economy depend upon.