BP Desk
The Sunway Centre for Planetary Health (SCPH) at Sunway University and RimbaWatch on February 24 launched Estimating a Fair Share Carbon Budget for Malaysia, marking a significant step in grounding Malaysia’s climate ambition in science and equity.
The report introduces a nationally contextualised benchmark aligned with a 1.5°C pathway under the Paris Agreement, providing a clearer reference point for policymakers, industry leaders and civil society as Malaysia navigates its climate and development priorities.
Held at Sunway University’s new building at Sunway Square, the launch convened senior government officials, researchers and civil society representatives to examine how carbon budget frameworks can strengthen national mitigation strategies, inform legislative reform, and improve policy coherence across sectors such as energy and forestry.
RimbaWatch presented key findings from its analysis, highlighting the implications of Malaysia’s fair share carbon budget for long-term emissions reduction pathways and climate governance. The discussion focused not only on targets, but on implementation, including the need for credible, measurable and transparent mechanisms that align economic development with planetary boundaries.
A high-level panel discussion followed, featuring YBhg. Datuk Dr. Ching Thoo A/L Kim, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES); Prof. Tan Sri Dr. Jemilah Mahmood, Executive Director of SCPH; and Nithiyah Tamilwanan, Report Lead at RimbaWatch. Moderated by Ganesha Pillai, Engagement Head at RimbaWatch, the panel explored how Malaysia can operationalise a fair share approach within national policy frameworks, including the forthcoming Climate Change Act.
“We cannot build a healthy society on an unstable climate. Malaysia must live up to its stated leadership on planetary health in both policy and practice, and put in place clear, transparent and implementable targets that reflect the urgent link between planetary stability and human survival,” said Ms. Maisarah Faiesall, Head of Policy, Strategy and Advocacy at SCPH.
“This report provides Malaysia with a clear, science-based and equitable benchmark to guide its climate commitments. Establishing a fair share carbon budget is essential to ensure that national policies, legislation and development planning are aligned with a 1.5°C pathway and reflect Malaysia’s responsibility and capacity in addressing the climate crisis,” said Adam Farhan, Director, RimbaWatch.
The launch underscores the growing importance of integrating scientific credibility, equity considerations and institutional accountability into Malaysia’s climate governance. Through this partnership, SCPH reaffirms its commitment to advancing planetary health leadership and supporting evidence-based policy solutions that safeguard both people and ecosystems in Malaysia and the wider region.
