Kuala lumpur: Malaysia requires a comprehensive Climate Change Bill to ensure legal clarity, long-term direction, and accountability in tackling the escalating impacts of climate change, stated Alliance For A Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. Climate change is now a present threat impacting national stability, economic performance, and social wellbeing, with an increase in floods, rising temperatures, landslides, and disruptions to food supply.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lee emphasized that Malaysia continues to address climate change through fragmented policies and non-binding commitments, leading to inconsistent climate actions that are susceptible to political cycles. He asserted that a Climate Change Bill would not add bureaucracy but provide certainty, as businesses, investors, local authorities, and communities need clear and predictable signals regarding the country's future direction.

Lee highlighted that anchoring climate goals in law would render policies more coherent, transitions more orderly, and planning more credible. Such certainty is crucial for attracting quality investments in renewable energy, green technology, sustainable finance, and climate-resilient infrastructure, which are vital for long-term economic resilience.

He proposed that the Bill should clearly define Malaysia's national climate commitments, including mitigation and adaptation targets aligned with international obligations, supported by transparent reporting, regular reviews, and enforceable mechanisms. He noted that climate change has become a social justice issue, with vulnerable groups like low-income households, indigenous communities, small farmers, and outdoor workers facing increased risks from extreme weather and rising temperatures.

Lee stressed that the Bill must prioritize safeguarding the health, safety, and livelihoods of vulnerable groups through equitable, people-centered adaptation measures. He also pointed out the importance of clear coordination across federal, state, and local levels, as local authorities often face climate impacts on the front lines without consistent guidance and resources. Transparency and independent oversight are necessary to build public trust.

'A Climate Change Bill signals that Malaysia is preparing for the future rather than reacting to crises. Ultimately, such a Bill is a statement of responsibility. It affirms that protecting lives, livelihoods, and future generations is a core duty of governance. Climate change is not a problem for tomorrow. It is here, and Parliament must act now,' Lee concluded.