Premier: Europe’s worsening heatwaves a wake-up call for sustainable devt

File photo for illustration purposes only. Source: JamesBrey/Getty Images Signature via Canva

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, July 14: The worsening heatwaves sweeping across Europe severely underscores the need for countries to rethink how they balance economic development with environmental sustainability, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

In Sarawak’s case, he said, the State is taking a long-term approach by ensuring economic progress goes hand in hand with environmental conservation, without compromising the ecosystems that sustain life.

“We need clean oxygen to live. As we move towards becoming a modern society, we must rethink how we conserve our environment while creating economic value that supports, rather than jeopardises, our ecosystems,” he said during the opening of the 21st Malaysian Forestry Conference (MFC) on Monday (July 14), as reported by TVS.

Abang Johari, who is also Sarawak’s Minister for Natural Resources and Urban Development, said Malaysia’s location along the equator provides a natural advantage, enabling the country to sustainably harness its rich biodiversity and abundant natural resources.

“This geographical advantage places Malaysia in a strong position to pursue economic growth while maintaining a careful balance between development and environmental protection,” he said.

To support that vision, he said Sarawak is investing significantly in scientific research, particularly through dedicated research centres focusing on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and the development of pharmaceutical products derived from the State’s rich forest biodiversity.

He stressed that Sarawak’s forests should no longer be viewed merely as a source of timber, but as strategic natural assets capable of driving innovation, supporting the green economy and generating sustainable long-term economic value.

By leveraging science, innovation and responsible forest management, he said, Sarawak aims to strengthen its contribution to addressing global climate challenges while preserving its natural heritage for future generations.

According to Reuters, European countries reported over 10,000 excess deaths during the heatwave that engulfed the west of the continent in late June.

Citing data from the EuroMOMO—a network backed by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the World Health Organisation (WHO)—over 9,000 were among people aged 65 and above.

Extreme heat can kill by causing heat stroke, or aggravating cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, with older people among the most vulnerable. — DayakDaily