SARAWAK and Sabah are being recognised as strategic national assets in Malaysia’s fight against climate change, extending beyond their role as mere carbon emitters.
Premier of Sarawak, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, highlighted the states’ abundant biodiversity, expansive tropical forests, and significant control over land use and natural resources, stressing that their management must adhere to both national and international legal frameworks.
“This approach must be based on both international and national law. The government will cooperate with various associations in managing matters related to climate,” he said during the launch of the Subnational Climate Change Institutional Assessment (CCIA) report in Kuching today.
Abang Johari explained that coherence between federal and state governments is essential for effective and integrated climate governance.
“This is why I emphasise the importance of alignment. Sabah and Sarawak are extremely strategic assets for Malaysia, because we possess very significant resources and assets,” he said, highlighting the states’ pivotal role in national climate strategies.
He further noted that a collaborative approach would provide clear mandates, strong legislative authority, and robust policy alignment, allowing the states to fully support national climate agendas.
The premier added that this strategy not only safeguards the environment but also has the potential to generate economic value and strengthen national resilience over the long term, positioning Malaysia to better face climate-related challenges while harnessing the full potential of its natural resources. - March 3, 2026
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