Kuala lumpur: The government is in the final stages of completing the National Climate Change Bill (RUU PIN) and the National Climate Change Authority Bill (RUU IKLIM), expected to be tabled in Parliament this July. Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the two bills will bolster the country's laws to combat the global climate crisis.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the introduction of these bills is a crucial step towards providing the nation with robust legal frameworks to address climate change issues effectively. Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup emphasized the importance of these legislative measures at the monthly gathering of the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES), highlighting the need for a sustainable future for coming generations.
RUU PIN aims to implement a monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) system, which will support carbon pricing and Malaysia's transition to a low-carbon economy. This system is designed to provide a consistent methodology for calculating greenhouse gas emissions across various economic sectors, ensuring transparency and the legitimacy of data. Additionally, the bill will facilitate the establishment of a national carbon registry with strong integrity.
The bill also outlines a phased, structured approach to the rollout of carbon pricing, setting the stage for future tools such as carbon taxes and carbon markets. Meanwhile, Minister Arthur reiterated NRES's commitment to upholding the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). This includes strengthening Sabah and Sarawak's rights by finalizing amendments that would allow these states to manage their scheduled waste independently.
Arthur further mentioned that the process to return federal land to the Sabah and Sarawak governments has been concluded, paving the way for local community projects. This move signifies a commitment to inclusive development and respect for territorial rights. Enhancing the Department of Environment is also a priority, as it currently operates with only 1,041 enforcement staff nationwide.
The ministry is also considering establishing a permanent branch at Port Klang to bolster border security and public health. To improve monitoring and forecasting for cross-border pollution and haze, the government plans to enhance weather and air quality updates through the Community Multi-Scale Air Quality (CIMEQ) initiative.
Additionally, Malaysia's participation in the Early Warnings for All initiative aims to provide comprehensive protection for citizens against disaster risks by 2027, ensuring a safer environment for all.