Confronting Climate Change: Malaysia’s Ongoing Battle and Path to a Sustainable Future

In 2006, Al Gore released An Inconvenient Truth. This book was a powerful wake-up call about global warming. It captivated many and motivated them to think about our planet. My father cherished his copy. He often said, “The planet speaks—we just need to listen.”

Years ago, we worried about the ozone layer. We learned about CFCs and how they damaged our atmosphere. Global cooperation led to the Montreal Protocol, and we started to heal our ozone layer. We felt victorious, believing we had tackled a huge environmental issue.

However, climate change crept in as a new, more complicated threat. Unlike the ozone problem, it doesn’t have a straightforward solution. We ignored its warnings, dismissing it as just another season’s heat. But now, we can’t escape the reality of its impact.

Changing Weather in Malaysia

Malaysia is familiar with rain and heat, but recent changes have been striking. The Malaysian Meteorological Department reports that average temperatures are rising. What were once predictable seasons are now marked by prolonged droughts and sudden heavy rain. Even seasoned weather experts are finding it hard to keep up.

Flooding and Monsoon Challenges

The monsoon, once a regular feature of our climate, is becoming increasingly destructive. In late 2024, floods in Kelantan, Terengganu, and Sarawak displaced over 122,000 people. Homes were lost, roads were destroyed, and shelter resources were strained. Such disasters are becoming an annual occurrence, leading to significant economic and social upheaval.

The Irrigation and Drainage Department (DID) is working on better infrastructure, but without addressing the root causes, these problems will persist.

A New Climate Phenomenon

Even tornado-like events are appearing in Malaysia. In March 2025, Sekinchan experienced two tornadoes in just one week, damaging over 30 homes. Experts warn that such occurrences may rise as temperatures and wind patterns shift. This shows just how rapidly climate events are transforming.

Health and Economic Ramifications

The increase in heat brings serious health concerns. Heat-related illnesses are on the rise. Agriculture, a backbone of many rural communities, is suffering from unpredictable weather, leading to rising food prices and job losses.

National Response

Malaysia aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030. The National Climate Change Policy focuses on green technology and urban resilience, pushing for low-carbon initiatives under the 12th Malaysia Plan. However, challenges like slow bureaucratic processes and lack of public involvement hinder progress.

What We Can Do

As Al Gore pointed out, individual action matters. Here are some simple ways we can contribute:

1. Use Energy Wisely: Opt for energy-efficient appliances and unplug devices when not in use.
2. Travel Smarter: Walk, bike, or use public transport instead of driving.
3. Reduce Waste: Say no to single-use plastics. Compost and recycle when you can.
4. Support Renewable Energy: Advocate for solar power in your home or community.
5. Conserve Water: Fix leaks and install water-saving taps.
6. Raise Awareness: Discuss climate issues and support local NGOs working on these matters.

Conclusion: Listening to Our Planet

My father valued An Inconvenient Truth for its heartfelt message. “The science is there,” he said, “but it all comes down to whether we care enough to act.”

We’re already witnessing climate change’s impact—through extreme weather, rising temperatures, and community disruptions. The tornadoes, floods, and heat are no longer warnings; they represent the consequences of our actions.

This article serves as a reminder of the urgency to act. Let’s ensure we don’t stand by quietly as the storm approaches; the time is now.

The author is a Senior Lecturer in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) and honors the memory of her father, Allahyarham Datuk Dr. Jamaluddin Md Jahi, through this piece.

For further insights on climate change, see the latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

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