Call for unified approach in tackling climate change

KUCHING: A deputy minister has called for a unified approach in tackling climate challenges, emphasising the importance of integrating efforts from government, private sector, civil society and local communities.

Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, the Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability said that there are two climate solutions.

“These are nature-based solution such as forest conservation, reforestation, mangrove restoration, peat and wetland protection.

“The other is technological-based solution such as Carbon Capture Usage and Storage (CCUS), Hydroelectric Power, Solar Energy, Wave Kinetic Energy, Wind Energy, Hydrogen, Synthetic Fuel, Bio Energy and liquefied natural gas (LNG),” he said during the National Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Summit 2024 held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre yesterday (Sept 18).

He highlighted that Sarawak focuses on its unique strengths, such as its vast land mass covered by 62 per cent forests.

“The region also has extensive areas of peat and blue carbon in the ocean, which serve as significant Carbon Sinks and can be utilised through Carbon Credits and Carbon Trading,” he said.

Additionally, he said that the state’s numerous rivers facilitate the development of hydroelectric power, floating solar energy and the hydrogen industry.

He also said highlighted the visionary leadership of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, whose initiatives through the Ministry of Energy and Environmental Sustainability and the Sarawak cabinet have driven these green advancements.

“Sarawak’s Green Initiative is based on 4 Frameworks which is The Legal Framework, The Technical Framework, The Financial or Business, Econ Framework and The Talent Development Framework.

“This is part of the Sarawak Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS) strategy under the Environmental Sustainability pillar besides Social Inclusivity and Economic Prosperity.

“Sarawak will be able to double its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to RM282 billion by 2030 if the strategies are successfully implemented,” he said.

He pointed out that the region has amended laws including the Land Code, Forest Ordinance, and Environmental (GHG Emission Reduction) Ordinance 2023, to support these initiatives.

“The state also has its own Energy Transition Policy and Green Economy Policy along with others in the works such as The Waste To Energy (WTE) Policy.

“In Sarawak, Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (PETROS) has been assigned as the
Resource Manager for the use and storage of carbon capture (CCUS) and oil
& gas industries.

“Any capable CCUS company is invited to collaborate with PETROS in the CCUS industry,” he added.

In his concluding remarks, Dr Hazland called upon all participants to engage actively in discussions and collaborations fostered by this conference.

“These contributions are vital in shaping and implementing the transition of sustainability and strategies for achieving net zero economy.

“Together, we can learn from Sarawak’s innovative approach and explore how similar strategies can be applied across our nation and region.

“I encourage everyone to take full advantage of this platform to forge partnerships and exchange ideas that will contribute to Malaysia’s Sustainable