Environment Minister Nik Nazmi on how Malaysia is charting a sustainable course

However, with so many plans in the works, distinguishing between crucial mitigation and adaptation strategies is essential. Nik Nazmi underscores the necessity of a dual approach: “Mitigation is about cutting our carbon emissions... But adaptation is equally critical, as there’s a limit to how much we can mitigate,” he explains.

This acknowledgement reflects Malaysia’s realistic appraisal of climate change, focusing on both reducing future impacts through mitigation and addressing current challenges, such as rising temperatures and extreme weather, through adaptation efforts.

“We need to adapt because there’s a limit to how much we can mitigate. Global temperatures are already rising; you can go to the coast and see coastal erosion. So there is a point where mitigation alone, without adaptation, will not be enough,” he adds.

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However, despite these efforts, the journey towards sustainability is fraught with challenges, especially for a nation like Malaysia which has historically prioritised industrialisation. Nik Nazmi candidly addresses these challenges, noting, “One of the reasons why EVs in Malaysia haven’t taken off as fast is simply because petrol in Malaysia is subsidised. So, that is why when I was in charge of electricity and water, we actually started the tariff revisions to move electricity away from blanket subsidies towards targeted subsidies. We want to pass more of the burden to bigger corporations, industries, and [wealthier] households to pay. Then hopefully, we can see more sustainable use once people realise that they have to pay the real cost of utilities.”

Nik Nazmi stresses the concept of a “just transition,” advocating for a balanced approach that recognises the developmental needs of nations within the constraints of planetary boundaries. He critiques the historical industrialisation of developed countries at the expense of environmental degradation and underscores the need for equitable support in the global transition to sustainability.

“There is no question that we need to transition away from, say, fossil fuels... But the transition must be just so that we are able to address that,” Nik Nazmi argues, championing the need for developed countries to support developing nations like Malaysia in this transition. 

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The minister acknowledged the critical roles of businesses, industries, and the public in advancing Malaysia’s sustainability agenda. He noted a growing awareness among corporations of the importance of green practices and highlighted the need for further support. “A lot of them are also asking for guidance, especially the SMEs. They don’t have chief sustainability officers. So I think the engagement with businesses is very critical,” he says.

Furthermore, enhancing public awareness and infrastructure to support sustainable living is vital. He emphasised the importance of engaging the public in sustainability efforts, highlighting the need for systemic support for individuals wishing to adopt more sustainable lifestyles.

“There is a greater realisation, but I think there’s still catching up to do in terms of certain things like infrastructure and the policies that we have. Overall, we want individuals who hold the government accountable when it comes to the environment. I think that’s crucial. In reality, a lot of people vote based on bread and butter issues. I think we need to make sustainability and the environment part of the considerations for people when they choose their leaders.” 

Looking forward, Nik Nazmi expresses a bold vision for Malaysia’s role on the global environmental stage. “I think Malaysia is a sustainability powerhouse,” he declares, envisioning a future where Malaysia is synonymous with sustainability efforts, leveraging its unique ecological assets for the global good.

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