STATEMENT BY
MS. YANG AISHAH ADNAN
FIRST SECRETARY
PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS
AT THE SECOND COMMITTEE OF THE 77TH UNGA
ON AGENDA ITEM 18: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
10 OCTOBER 2022
Madam Chair,
Malaysia aligns itself with the statements delivered by Pakistan on behalf of the G77 and China as well as by the Philippines, on behalf of ASEAN, respectively.
Madam Chair,
2. The triple crises are estimated to push more than 75 to 95 million people into extreme poverty this year compared to pre-pandemic projection. Just like that, the pandemic has taken away four years of progress in SDG 1 (No Poverty). We are now pushed to scramble towards sustainable recovery.
3. Notwithstanding the hardships, Malaysia continues to prioritise and align national strategies and initiatives by integrating the implementation of SDGs into our 12th Development Plan. Just last week, the Malaysian Government announced an allocation of USD 300 million (RM 1.5 billion) for the year 2023 to be channelled to projects involving all 17 SDGs. We are also pressing forward on localising SDGs at the grassroots levels through a whole-of-nation approach in ensuring that no one is left behind.
Madam Chair,
4. We must not delay our climate action. According to the SDG Report 2022, our window to avoid climate catastrophe is closing rapidly. Therefore, it has become more imperative than ever to assist vulnerable countries in their efforts towards climate action. In this regard, Malaysia wishes to add its voice to the call for developed partners to fulfil their annual commitment of USD 100 billion in supporting adaptation and mitigation measures in developing countries.
5. Malaysia is committed to fighting climate change. In that respect, the Malaysian Government will be spending USD 3 billion (RM 15 billion) until 2030 as a long-term adaptation strategy against flooding in the country.
6. In order to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, we cannot continue with business as usual. To support the ambition of keeping planetary health, the Malaysian Government has presented the Environmental Quality Bill (Amendment) 2022 Phase 1 which, among others, increases punishments, fines and penalties for environmental offenders.
Madam Chair,
7. Geopolitical tensions have triggered global energy shocks and jeopardised our progress towards sustainable development. Malaysia stresses the importance of ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all and the need for increased levels of investment in energy transition. Further, greater political will and international cooperation must be strengthened to assist developing countries to gain better access to energy including upgrading technology for supplying renewable and sustainable energy. In Malaysia, the implementation of National Energy Policy 2022-2040 includes increasing the percentage of renewable energy supply from 7% to 17% as well as reducing the percentage of coal in installed capacity from 31% to 18%. Malaysia is also encouraging the use of electric vehicles with a target to increase its share from less than 1% to 38%.
Madam Chair,
8. In conclusion, we must spare no efforts in realising the 2030 Agenda despite the multiple crises. We do not have much time left and must do everything in our capabilities to avoid the risk of future crises. We must rise higher and stronger to rescue the SDGs and not let our efforts to achieve sustainable development go in vain.
I thank you.