MALAYSIA has chosen not to pursue short-term gains through large-scale logging, instead prioritising long-term environmental sustainability, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said in an exclusive interview with TV BRICS on Friday.
“We could earn a great deal of profit right now just by selling timber, but we are not doing that,” he said.
“Why? Because we want to protect our heritage and the environment. And that is our principle, even if it demands sacrifice.”
Anwar revealed that more than 52 per cent of Malaysia’s land remains covered by virgin forest, placing the country among the greenest in the region. His remarks came in response to questions regarding ASEAN’s collective action on climate change and regional sustainability strategies.
He also criticised the persistent pressure placed on developing nations by industrialised countries in global climate discussions.
“We cannot keep listening to some industrial countries that tell us what we should do, when they themselves have damaged the environment and failed to fulfil their support pledges,” he said.
Anwar further noted that developed nations have yet to deliver on promises of financial assistance and technological support to the developing world, which he said is essential to ensuring a just and effective climate response.
Malaysia’s stance, he said, reflects a principled approach to environmental governance, balancing development with the need to safeguard natural ecosystems for future generations. - May 17, 2025
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