Kuala lumpur: ASEAN member states must act collectively to confront climate change and advance clean energy transition, said chairman of CARI ASEAN Research and Advocacy president, ASEAN Business Club Tan Sri Dr Munir Majid. He emphasized that sustainable progress depends on shared responsibility and strong regional cooperation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Munir stressed that the 47th Summit will not solve ASEAN's sustainability problems. He highlighted the need for cooperation, stating that Sustainable Development Goal 17, which focuses on partnerships for the goals, underscores the importance of joint efforts in problem-solving. He called for partnerships at various levels, from individual homes to businesses and countries, to tackle these challenges effectively.
Munir pointed out that Malaysia continues to lead regional sustainability efforts through concrete policies and catalytic energy projects. Malaysia's experience and leadership have placed it at the forefront of ASEAN's sustainability movement. He noted that Malaysia had incorporated the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within its national development agenda starting with the 11th Malaysia Plan, continuing into the current 12th Plan, and will remain central in the upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan.
He acknowledged that achieving all 17 goals is challenging, but Malaysia's progress and commitment are evident through regular national reporting to international bodies. Munir also mentioned that ASEAN energy ministers have endorsed the ASEAN Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation (APAEC) 2026-2030 last week, demonstrating the region's collective commitment to advancing clean energy development, although implementation capacity varies among member states.
Furthermore, Munir highlighted that the sustainable energy transition remains one of the most critical factors for ASEAN's long-term development. Malaysia has already embarked on major projects under its energy transition framework introduced in 2022. The country has developed the Renewable Energy Transition Roadmap and an energy transition policy, along with several catalytic energy transition projects.
He cited examples such as one of the largest solar farms in ASEAN and hybrid farms that combine hydro and solar power, like those at Klang Gate Dam. In Sarawak, there are significant hydropower and green energy projects underway. Efforts are also being made to establish an ASEAN Power Grid, linking energy resources across borders.