Malaysia to champion sustainable development
He said the country is strategically placed to lead this new development approach in the region, given its consistent commitment to green policies, transition to renewable energy (RE) and circular economy initiatives.
'ASEAN comprises 10 countries, each with distinct strengths and expertise. As chair this year, Malaysia can act as a catalyst for a sustainable development model that is not dependent on the unsustainable frameworks of developed nations,' he told Bernama.
According to Zainal Abidin, the climate crisis, for instance, is no longer a future concern but a current reality, requiring ASEAN member states to adopt bold policies and act collectively.
He added that ASEAN must shift from an exploitative growth model to one that prioritises climate resilience, sustainable resource management and social justice.
Zainal Abidin says Malaysia must use its ASEAN chairmanship to drive bold, collective action on sustainability (Source: centre.iium.edu.my)
Indigenous communities in the region have long practised environmentally balanced lifestyles, including sustainable land management and internationally recognised controlled burning techniques.
The academic stressed that the ASEAN 2025 theme of 'Inclusivity and Sustainability' must be translated into concrete policy actions and not remain mere rhetoric.
'Without inclusivity, inequality will continue to widen and progress will not last without sustainability. Therefore, as ASEAN chair for the fifth time in 2025, Malaysia must lead the collective commitment to ensure today's development does not burden future generations,' he said.
Zainal Abidin added that Malaysia can serve as a bridge between regional economic interests and urgent environmental conservation needs by promoting a development approach that integrates technological innovation, good governance and multi-stakeholder cooperation.
'Malaysia can set an example for ASEAN member states in making development and sustainability complementary strategies by strengthening the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles,' he said.
He also proposed that Malaysia take a leading role in fostering regional noble values by advocating fair access to education, technology and economic opportunities, while enhancing the participation of women, youth and communities in ASEAN policy-making processes.
Malaysia has shown a clear commitment to addressing climate change through the National Environmental Policy (NEP), Green Economy Framework (GEF), New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP 2030) and emphasis on RE and carbon emission reduction.
Zainal Abidin said as host of the ASEAN Summit 2025, Malaysia holds a strategic opportunity to shape the region's sustainable development agenda, with its moderate and balanced diplomatic stance positioning it well as a bridge between ASEAN and external partners such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and China.
The 46th ASEAN Summit commenced with the senior officials' meeting on May 23, followed by the ministerial-level meeting on May 25, while the heads of govern- ment meeting begins today. — Bernama
This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition
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