ASEAN and Climate Change: A Call for Collective Action
In Brazil’s Belem, ASEAN nations are poised to become the world’s fifth-largest economy. However, they face serious threats from climate change. Dr. Ching Thoo Kim, Malaysia’s secretary-general for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, emphasized the urgency for ASEAN to unite at UN climate talks. He believes forming an official negotiating bloc would amplify their voice on vital climate issues.
During COP30, the UN climate conference happening now, Dr. Ching pointed out that climate change is more than a future concern. It’s already impacting economies now worth $4.1 trillion. Floods, droughts, and haze directly affect livelihoods and could worsen if not addressed collectively.
Dr. Ching suggested Singapore should lead the charge in establishing this bloc. He indicated that Malaysia has been advocating for a united front, especially since they previously chaired the ASEAN Working Group on Climate Change. Such collective action can help ASEAN countries share experiences and negotiate effectively. Currently, there are 16 official negotiating groups at climate summits, each representing specific interests. For example, the Alliance of Small Island States emphasizes the need to reduce emissions while some oil-dependent nations resist moves against fossil fuels.
Dr. Ching believes forming an ASEAN group will bring much-needed international attention to regional concerns. Successful collaboration will require agreement from all 11 ASEAN member states, which recently met to discuss this initiative. Technical issues need resolution before they can finalize their strategy.
At COP30, ASEAN debuted its pavilion, highlighting its energy cooperation and inviting regional youth to engage in climate discussions. One major goal is securing climate finance to meet development targets. Dr. Ching hopes for assistance in budgetary and technological needs related to climate action.
Malaysia faces significant challenges, such as addressing ongoing floods that have affected both coasts. The government is working to improve water security and is taking steps to analyze flood causes. In 2021, severe flooding caused massive destruction, resulting in nearly 50 deaths and displacing over 40,000 people. The financial loss from these disasters exceeded RM6.1 billion.
To combat future flooding, Malaysia is planting mangroves to protect its shorelines from rising sea levels. The government plans to introduce climate legislation and establish a climate agency by 2026. This agency will oversee a carbon tax set to launch that same year, alongside projects aimed at meeting new climate targets for 2035.
Dr. Ching acknowledges that starting these initiatives will involve challenges and require patience. However, he remains optimistic, stating, “It’s never too late to start.” As ASEAN steps forward, its united voice could significantly impact not just regional, but global climate policies.
Fostering collaboration and local action remains critical for navigating the effects of climate change and ensuring a sustainable future for the region.
For further information, consider exploring resources from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.
