Minister Johari Abdul Ghani of Malaysia to assume responsibilities for the environment ministry
In a recent shift, Malaysia's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) has a new leader following the resignation of Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, who also holds the post of Plantations and Commodities Minister, has taken over the duties and functions of the NRES, effective immediately.
The Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, had informed the Cabinet about the reallocation of duties following Nik Nazmi's resignation. Nik Nazmi stepped down at the end of May after losing his deputy presidency in internal elections for Parti Keadilan Rakyat.
Johari Abdul Ghani is no stranger to government roles, having previously served as Deputy Finance Minister under former Prime Minister and Finance Minister Najib Razak. His extensive experience in policy and finance will undoubtedly be beneficial in his new role.
One of Johari's key priorities is to explore palm oil waste as a potential renewable energy source to replace coal. This move aligns with Malaysia's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future.
The ministry is also working on the country's first National Adaptation Plan, with a targeted completion date next year. However, as of now, there are no specific updates on its current status or preparation.
Another significant initiative under Johari's leadership is the drafting of Malaysia's National Climate Change Bill. Although the Bill is still in the drafting stage and has not yet been tabled in Parliament, it aims to include binding participation for industry and incentives for emission reductions, aligning with Malaysia's net-zero carbon emission target by 2050.
Meanwhile, at the subnational level, Sabah state has made significant progress by passing its own Climate Change and Carbon Governance Enactment 2025. This legislation establishes legal and institutional frameworks for climate action, including the Sabah Climate Action Council, carbon rights management, and greenhouse gas emissions tracking.
As Johari takes the helm, his focus on renewable energy and climate change policies promises to continue the momentum established by his predecessor. However, for comprehensive updates on the Adaptation Plan and the progress of the National Climate Change Bill, further government releases or official ministry statements would be necessary.
References
- The Star
- Free Malaysia Today
- Malaysia Today
- The new leader of Malaysia's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, is focusing on exploring palm oil waste as a potential renewable energy source to replace coal, aligning with Malaysia's commitment to the SDG and energy transition.
- Johari Abdul Ghani's extensive experience in policy and finance will be beneficial in his new role, particularly in his plans for a more sustainable energy future and Malaysia's net-zero carbon emission target by 2050.
- Under Johari's leadership, the ministry is working on Malaysia's first National Adaptation Plan, focusing on climate change adaptation strategies, and drafting the National Climate Change Bill to establish legal and industrial participation for emission reductions.
- In the realm of environmental-science, Sabah state has made significant progress by passing its own Climate Change and Carbon Governance Enactment 2025, which establishes frameworks for climate action and greenhouse gas emissions tracking.
- The Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, has made policy changes following the resignation of Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, with Johari being reallocated duties in the NRES and other related ministries.
- The General News outlets are closely monitoring the progress of Johari's initiatives and policies, such as the National Adaptation Plan and the National Climate Change Bill, for comprehensive updates and to provide insights into the country's approach to addressing climate change and enhancing sustainability.
- The business and finance communities are closely watching policy-and-legislation developments, particularly the National Climate Change Bill, as they may influence investment decisions and the role of renewable energy in the country's energy mix.
