Climate Act delayed as federal, state governments reconcile forestry issues
KOTA KINABALU: The proposed National Climate Change Act is taking longer to finalise as the federal government continues negotiations with all states to ensure the legislation does not encroach on their constitutional powers.
The proposed National Climate Change Act is facing delays as federal and state governments negotiate to ensure it does not infringe on their constitutional powers, according to Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup. The Act, which follows the April launch of the National Carbon Market Policy, requires significant harmonisation between federal and state governments due to forestry being a state matter under the Federal Constitution.
Kurup stated that the Act has encountered numerous obstacles, primarily due to the need for engagement with all states, including Sabah and Sarawak, to maintain their sovereignty over forest assets. The federal government continues to serve as Malaysia's focal point for reporting climate-related commitments internationally, thus making coordination with states crucial.
Sabah and Sarawak have been noted for their substantial contributions to forest conservation, with both states having over 60% forest cover. The conference, held in Sabah, aims to further these conservation efforts and explore commercialising the natural resources for economic benefit, as discussed by UMS Vice Chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor.
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