Sustainability in a developing nation involves more than just environmental conservation; it integrates economic viability and social equity. For Malaysia, adopting a regenerative economy in the palm oil sector means implementing agricultural practices that restore ecosystems, improve biodiversity, and support the livelihoods of local communities. This panel discussion will highlight success stories and case studies from the Malaysian palm oil industry, illustrating how regenerative economy principles are being applied to achieve sustainability.

This panel session will explore the critical connection between climate science and policy-making, particularly in the context of Malaysia’s climate targets and international commitments. The session aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of how scientific findings, such as those from IPCC reports, are translated into national climate pledges and influence Malaysia’s stance in global negotiations, including COP.

The Malaysian government is earmarking US$3mil (around RM14mil) in grants from the Green Climate Fund to develop a National Adaptation Plan. In that, understanding the global context of adaptation policy becomes crucial. This session delves into the Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) and thinking behind the recent UAE-Belem Work Programme, setting the stage for a focused discussion on Malaysia’s own strategies. Through expert insights, participants will explore how international adaptation frameworks inform and inspire national policy-making.

In response to the challenges posed in the midst of urban development, a growing number of organizations and initiatives are emerging, committed to transforming Malaysian cities into sustainable urban centers. This session, “Creating Sustainable Cities in Malaysia – A Showcase of Changemakers,” highlights the diverse and impactful efforts being made across the country. By adopting holistic and innovative approaches, these changemakers are paving the way for a greener, more sustainable urban future in Malaysia.

Water management in Malaysia faces dual challenges: dealing with excess water during floods and ensuring adequate water distribution during dry spells. We will delve into the critical roles of Air Selangor in managing water distribution and a flood expert in addressing flood risks. Participants will gain insights into how these extreme water scenarios are managed, highlighting the importance of adaptive strategies in building a resilient urban environment.

This session aims to build participants’ awareness of the importance of climate data in environmental management. By understanding what climate data is, why it matters, and how it can be used, participants will gain insight into the role of data in fostering trust, accountability, and informed decision-making. The session will feature speakers who are working on innovative applications of climate data, with a focus on the following three key pillars: data visualisation, database establishment and analytics for innovative use cases.