Malaysian Green Transition
The Malaysia Green Transition refers to the sustainable development strategy implemented by the Malaysian government to combat climate change, stimulate economic growth, and improve societal well-being. The shift towards a greener economy began in earnest in the early 2020s, with ambitious targets set to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and incorporate renewable energy sources into the national grid.
Overview
Following global trends and increasing environmental concerns, Malaysia recognized the pressing need for a transition to a green, sustainable economy. The Malaysian government announced a comprehensive plan that centered on sustainable development, green technology, biodiversity preservation, and climate change mitigation. This shift, known as the Malaysia Green Transition, aims to decarbonize various sectors, promote renewable energy sources, and establish a circular economy.[1][2]
Policy framework and initiatives
Green Technology Master Plan (2021–2030)
The Green Technology Master Plan was one of the first significant policy frameworks laid out by the government to guide the green transition. This blueprint highlights six sectors: energy, manufacturing, building, transport, waste, and water. The plan set specific goals, including achieving 40% renewable energy in the electricity mix by 2035 and enhancing energy efficiency in the manufacturing and building sectors.[3][4]
National Biodiversity Policy (2022–2030)
The National Biodiversity Policy seeks to protect and manage Malaysia's rich biodiversity while harnessing its potential for sustainable economic development. The policy aims to integrate biodiversity considerations into all relevant sectors and decision-making processes.[5]
Sustainable and Circular Economy Roadmap (2023-2040)
The government introduced the Sustainable and Circular Economy Roadmap to transition the country towards a circular economy. The approach promotes the efficient use of resources, waste minimization, and the regeneration of natural systems.[6]
Progress and Achievements
Since the onset of the Malaysia Green Transition, notable progress has been made in several sectors.[7]
The country made significant strides in expanding its renewable energy portfolio, particularly in solar and hydroelectric power. By 2023, the share of renewable energy in the national grid rose to 22%, a significant increase from the previous decade.[7]
Energy efficiency measures have been implemented across various sectors, with considerable progress in the building and industrial sectors. Mandatory energy audits, green building index certifications, and efficient energy management systems have reduced the energy intensity of these sectors.[7]
Malaysia has implemented several waste-to-energy projects, transforming municipal waste into energy. An increase in recycling rates and the introduction of policies targeting single-use plastics have contributed to a shift towards a circular economy.[7]
Challenges and future directions
While the Malaysia Green Transition has seen significant achievements, it faces several challenges, including economic restructuring, financing green technologies, and public awareness and participation.[8]
The Malaysian government plans to continue strengthening its green policies and initiatives, focusing on a just transition that ensures equitable opportunities and benefits for all citizens. Future directions include greater emphasis on nature-based solutions, blue economy, and digitalization in the green economy.[8]
See also
References
- ^ "The transition to green energy – Malaysian Green Technology And Climate Change Corporation". Retrieved 2023-06-06.
- ^ OECD (2021). Facilitating the green transition for ASEAN SMEs. A toolkit for policymakers. Canada: OECD.
- ^ "Six ways that governments can drive the green transition". www.ey.com. Retrieved 2023-06-06.
- ^ Federal Government Administrative Centre (2017). Green Technology Master Plan Malaysia 2017–2030. Putrajaya, Malaysia: Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Watr (KeTTHA).
- ^ Saudi, Mohd Haizam Mohd; Sinaga, Obsatar; Roespinoedji, Djoko; Razimi, Mohd Shahril Ahmad (2019-09-01). "ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN THE FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION: THE NEXUS BETWEEN GREEN PRODUCT AND GREEN PROCESS INNOVATION". International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy. 9 (5): 363–370. doi:10.32479/ijeep.8281. ISSN 2146-4553.
- ^ https://www.bcg.com/about/people/experts/dave-sivaprasad; https://www.bcg.com/about/people/experts/vincent-chin; https://www.bcg.com/about/people/experts/hitesh-tak; https://www.bcg.com/about/people/experts/ming-teck-kong; https://www.bcg.com/about/people/experts/ching-fong-ong (2021-11-23). "Securing Our Future: Net Zero Pathways for Malaysia". BCG Global. Retrieved 2023-06-06.
{{cite web}}: External link in|last2=,|last3=,|last4=,|last5=, and|last= - ^ a b c d Wong, Fadhli Wong Mohd Hasan; Foley, Aoife; Del Rio, Dylan Furszyfer; Rooney, David; Shariff, Shahidah; Dolfi, Andrea; Srinivasan, Geetha (December 2022). "Public perception of transitioning to a low-carbon nation: a Malaysian scenario". Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy. 24 (10): 3077–3092. doi:10.1007/s10098-022-02345-7. ISSN 1618-954X.
- ^ a b Abdullah, Hussin; Abu Bakar, Nor' Aznin; Mohd Jali, Mohd Razani; Ibrahim, Fatimah Wati (2017). "The Current State of Malaysia's Journey towards a Green Economy: The Perceptions of the Companies on Environmental Efficiency and Sustainability". International Journal of Energy Economics and Policy. 1 (7). ISSN 2146-4553 – via Econjournal.com.