Malaysia’s Natural Resources Ministry says integrity is non-negotiable for personnel managing national assets, as decisions impact future generations.

PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) has declared that integrity is a fundamental obligation for its personnel in managing the nation’s natural assets.

Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup stated that every decision made today directly impacts future generations, making transparency and accountability core principles.

“As civil servants entrusted with managing the country’s treasures, integrity is not an option but an obligation,” he said at an NRES event.

He warned against mortgaging future sustainability for short-term interests.

Kurup also outlined key ministry achievements from December 2025 to February 2026.

These include amending the Environmental Quality Act 1974 to devolve scheduled waste management powers to Sabah and Sarawak.

He said this strengthens federal-state collaboration and grants greater autonomy aligned with the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

The ministry has also begun drafting legislation for Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS).

This aims to ensure Malaysia remains competitive in the global carbon market.

“Sustainability can no longer be seen as merely a cost burden, but needs to become the new economic driver,” Kurup added.

He highlighted development of the circular economy and low-carbon technologies as part of this shift.

The Low-Carbon City initiative has been strengthened with realigned green criteria using the latest technology.

This ensures more accurate and transparent monitoring of emissions data.

Forest and biodiversity management was bolstered through the Ecological Fiscal Transfers Fund.

The fund provides incentives to states that maintain forest reserves and water catchment areas.

On internal culture, Kurup stressed the need to break down bureaucratic barriers between departments.

He urged staff to operate as ‘One Team One Mission’ to ensure comprehensive policy implementation.

“The combination of strong integrity and a solid teamwork spirit will be the NRES’ main strength,” he concluded.

 The Sun Malaysia