Transport minister: Compulsory carbon tax on aviation centre still in discussion

Malaysia is still deliberating on whether to introduce a compulsory carbon tax for its aviation sector, despite being committed to the International Civil Aviation Organisation's (ICAO) goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook. Loke stated that Malaysia would implement a phased approach to reduce aviation emissions, with further details to be revealed periodically.

He emphasized that Malaysia has not yet decided on the specifics of the carbon tax or the implementation strategy, which may vary between countries. The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has not reached a decision on the matter.

The conference, hosted by Malaysia for the first time, brings together aviation leaders from the Asia-Pacific region to address topics such as aviation safety, emerging technologies, and sustainability. The conference, themed "Smart Skies: Emerging Technologies for Safe, Secure, Sustainable, and Efficient Aviation", is seen as significant given the growing demand for aviation and the rapid advancement of new technologies.

Loke highlighted that technology is transforming various aspects of aviation, including aircraft operation, air traffic management, and risk identification. He noted that innovations like AI, unmanned aircraft systems, and advanced air mobility could enhance connectivity, logistics, and public services, provided that strong policies, regulations, and public confidence are in place to prevent new risks.

Earlier, Loke mentioned that aviation is a key strategic pillar for Malaysia's national development as an open and trading nation. He expressed Malaysia's ambition to become a resilient and competitive regional aviation hub through modern infrastructure, efficient airspace management, robust regulatory institutions, and a skilled workforce.

Malaysia aims to achieve a net-zero carbon emissions target for international aviation by 2050 through the Malaysia Aviation Decarbonisation Blueprint, which aligns with ICAO's Long-Term Aspirational Goal.