NRES aims to establish 200 low carbon zones by 2030, bolstering climate action and green urban growth under Malaysia’s enhanced national commitments.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability is targeting the establishment of 200 low carbon zones across Malaysia by 2030.

Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup described the initiative as a proactive step to position urban areas as catalysts for green economic growth.

He said the effort began with the Low Carbon Cities Framework in 2011 and was strengthened through the National Low Carbon Cities Masterplan in 2021.

“To date, 146 out of 156 local authorities have received the relevant training,” Arthur said at the 2025 Low Carbon Cities Awards Ceremony.

He noted that 70 local authorities have already begun implementing low-carbon solutions in their respective areas.

Arthur emphasised the crucial role of cities in climate change mitigation.

He stated that over 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions are concentrated in urban areas, which serve as hubs of economic activity.

Malaysia has committed to a more progressive national emission reduction target under the Paris Agreement.

This was formalised via its Third Nationally Determined Contributions submitted last October.

“Through NDC 3.0, Malaysia has committed to reducing GHG emissions by 15 to 30 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2035,” he said.

Arthur explained that 20 million tonnes will be achieved through unconditional domestic efforts.

The remaining 10 million tonnes are subject to international support in financing and technology transfer.

To ensure the target is met, NRES is finalising the Climate Change Bill and the National Climate Change Authority Bill.

Arthur said this legislation will strengthen the country’s climate change governance.

It will also facilitate the implementation of the National Carbon Market Policy to promote a transparent carbon credit ecosystem.

An audit from the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation showed impressive results from the initiative.

It recorded a reduction in emissions of 324,073.84 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent throughout 2025.

The total carbon absorption reached 80,837.06 tonnes, symbolically equivalent to planting 10.12 million mature trees.

This absorption is also equivalent to taking 87,650 cars off the road per year.

Arthur expressed appreciation to the local governments of Selangor, Johor, Melaka, Pahang and Kedah for their consistent efforts.

He urged wider participation from other states, including Sabah and Sarawak, to achieve a comprehensive sustainability agenda by 2030.

A total of 164 Diamond Recognitions were awarded to local authorities and partners at the ceremony.

These awards recognise their outstanding efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

 The Sun Malaysia