The most critical step to be taken in order to raise awareness and get Malaysia to move on the sustainability agenda before the end of 2023 would be to create effective and comprehensive public education campaigns that reach all segments of the population. These campaigns should inform the public of the potential environmental, economic, and social benefits of pursuing sustainability measures.

Additionally, Malaysia should increase its investment in research and development related to sustainability solutions and renewable energy, and establish clear targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2023. Additionally, local governments should create policies that incentivize sustainability initiatives, such as tax credits for companies that comply with green standards, and regulatory reforms that reduce the environmental impacts of major industry.

According to the Global Carbon Project, Malaysia’s total GHG emissions in 2018 was 431. 6 MtCO₂e (million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent). Malaysia has committed to reduce its GHG emissions by 45% from the 2005 level by 2030, which translates to an annual reduction target of about 2. 4% on average for the next 11 years.

Malaysia has missed its target of minimising carbon dioxide emissions by 2021. To meet the target, Malaysia should adopt policies that promote the use of renewable energy sources, provide incentives for low-carbon technologies and projects, and improve energy efficiency. Additionally, the government should encourage public transport use, invest in reforestation and afforestation projects, and promote clean air and water practices.

For reference, this should have been our yearly target up to 2030:

2023: 404. 0 MtCO₂e
2024: 397. 5 MtCO₂e
2025: 391. 3 MtCO₂e
2026: 385. 3 MtCO₂e
2027: 379. 5 MtCO₂e
2028: 374. 0 MtCO₂e
2029: 368. 6 MtCO₂e
2030: 363. 5 MtCO₂e

In order to achieve this target, I am proposing some ideas on what we should do immediately starting from today given that we only have less than 7 years to do so:

1. Develop syllabus and lesson packages for public education campaigns on sustainability for all sectors, genders and age levels.
2. Develop and publish aggressive media campaigns to raise awareness on sustainability in all segments of population.
3. Increase budget allocation for research and development related to sustainability especially in governments and companies.
4. Establish clear targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions by end of 2023 for all sectors.
5. Create tax credits, subsidies, and other incentives for companies who comply with green standards and regulations.
6. Initiate regulatory reforms that reduce environmental impacts of major industry i.e Energy, cement, EVs, Renewables .
7. Increase collaboration with international organizations and NGOs.
8. Hold public forums to discuss and evaluate progress of sustainability initiatives.