Antalya:Malaysia's National Statement at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Turkiye will focus on five key strategic pillars: commitment, transparency, carbon economy, policy, and climate diplomacy.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) Climate Change Division's deputy undersecretary, Raffidi Abdullah, explained that the commitment pillar will highlight Malaysia's updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 3.0. Transparency will be addressed through the submission of the country's inaugural Biennial Transparency Report (BTR).
The carbon economy pillar will emphasize the implementation of Malaysia's International Compliance Carbon Market. In terms of policy, Malaysia will reaffirm its International Climate Change Policy 2.0 and the National Climate Change Bill. Climate diplomacy will outline Malaysia's commitments and national stance, underscoring its dedication to global climate action while balancing national development priorities.
The statement is to be delivered by NRES Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup. Raffidi noted that Malaysia's approach would balance global climate ambitions with national development, guided by equity and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and capabilities. He emphasized that nationally determined contributions should remain within the national domain, supported by finance, technology transfer, and capacity building in line with the Paris Agreement.
Raffidi also highlighted the importance of accessible climate finance, adaptable measures, and acknowledgment of national circumstances, including energy security and natural gas's role as a transitional fuel.
Minister Arthur emphasized that Malaysia's participation in COP31 is not only to affirm commitments but also to showcase climate actions and partnerships that can lead to resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth. Malaysia is committed to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with NDC 3.0 setting a target for emissions to peak between 2029 and 2034, followed by a reduction to 50-30 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2035.
Turkish Ambassador to Malaysia, Dr. Nevzat Uyanik, acknowledged Malaysia's potential to contribute significantly to global climate discussions due to its natural resources, biodiversity, and growing economic and technological prowess. He suggested that Malaysia and Turkiye could lead an environment and climate cooperation platform for developing countries at COP31.