How Fadillah and MSU Centre for Climate Resilience Champion the National Sustainability Agenda

The Malaysian government has launched the MSU Centre for Climate Resilience and Strategy (M-CREST). This new hub aims to boost efforts to tackle climate change’s growing effects and enhance national and regional resilience.

At the launch held at Management and Science University (MSU), Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to balancing modernization and environmental sustainability. He noted that the initiative comes at a critical time, as climate challenges intensify globally. M-CREST will focus on strategies aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Fadillah praised MSU for its leadership in sustainability and its ranking among the top 200 universities globally for impact in 2025. The new center aims to drive Malaysia’s transition towards a low-carbon, climate-resilient future.

M-CREST will work on six key areas: Green and Biodiversity, Water and Ocean, Energy and Low Carbon, Waste and Circular Economy, Health, Climate and Community Resilience, and Research. This will include efforts in climate mitigation, adaptation, community engagement, and education.

“Building climate resilience is about safeguarding our future and ensuring everyone has access to natural resources,” Fadillah stated. He emphasized that climate change is a present reality, not just a future concern.

He reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to net-zero by 2050. The upcoming National Climate Change Bill will introduce mechanisms like carbon taxes and emissions reduction credits to support these goals. The initial focus of the carbon tax will be on the steel and energy sectors.

In addition, Fadillah announced two new financial instruments: the Forest Conservation Certificate (FCC) and the Forest Carbon Offset (FCO), aimed at encouraging private sector involvement in forest conservation. The FCO is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026.

The government is also working on a National Adaptation Plan (MyNAP) that will target water security, agriculture, infrastructure, forestry, and public health. Such comprehensive plans highlight the importance of proactive measures against climate impacts.

Fadillah stressed the vital role of universities in providing research and insight. Institutions like MSU can promote sustainable practices and educate the public about environmental responsibility. He urged collaboration with agencies like the National Water Research Institute of Malaysia and the National Water Services Commission, particularly in utilizing AI and satellite technology for flood mitigation.

Pursuing modernization without careful planning can harm the environment and future generations. Therefore, Fadillah called for unity across all sectors. He hopes M-CREST will foster partnerships to enhance climate resilience not just in Malaysia, but also throughout the region.

As climate change continues to affect communities worldwide, initiatives like M-CREST are crucial for developing effective strategies and solutions. The urgency of the climate crisis is evident, making this hub a timely and necessary response.

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