LANGKAWI: Asean should take a stronger stance on environmental issues as it works to finalise its common position before the 30th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP30).
Acting Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said the issues include climate finance, adaptation, loss and damage, just transition and the “Global Goal on Adaptation”.
“We aim to finalise Asean’s common position ahead of COP30 later this year.
“As such, we must unite as a region to influence global climate discussions,” he said in his welcoming remarks at the 18th Asean Ministerial Meeting on the Environment (AMME-18) at the Langkawi International Convention Centre here yesterday.
He added that through the meeting, Asean also aims to advance the implementation of multilateral environmental agreements relevant to the region, including the Paris Agreement, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) of the Global Plastics Treaty.
Johari said that as Asean chair, Malaysia hopes to strengthen regional cooperation on key environmental priorities through deeper cross-sectoral collaborations with Asean states.
He added that as Asean marks the 10th anniversary of the Asean Community and moves towards the Asean Community Vision 2045, Malaysia is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, in line with its theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability”.
“The theme also aims to promote meaningful partnerships and build a resilient, future-ready Asean.
“It reflects our determination to live in harmony with nature, while showcasing our priorities and shared hopes for the region.
“This aligns with the principles of Madani, an aspiration for inclusivity, justice and shared responsibility,” he said.
AMME-18 is organised by the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry.
Key agendas include the Asean Joint Statement for COP30 and the 20th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Asean Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
