Kuala lumpur: Forest and biodiversity conservation, water resource management, and enhancing national resilience against climate change impacts are top priorities for Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup, the newly appointed Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Arthur is set to promote the development of a green economy and sustainability-focused employment opportunities for the public's benefit. He expressed his commitment to collaborating with ministry personnel, implementing agencies, non-governmental organizations, academia, and the private sector to ensure effective policy implementation with tangible impacts on people and the environment.

Arthur emphasized that with ongoing challenges such as climate change and resource depletion, it is crucial to strengthen natural resource management through science-based policies, transparent governance, and cooperation. He stated that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability plays a strategic role in balancing national development needs with environmental conservation.

Arthur's appointment was part of a recent Cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. This reshuffle aimed to fill the key portfolio related to national resource management and sustainability, previously managed by Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. Arthur brings extensive experience from his previous role as Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security and other strategic ministries since 2020.