Azmin urges climate action plan in Selangor

Perikatan Nasional (PN) today urged the Selangor government to mobilise a climate action plan (CAP), especially at the local authority (PBT) level, to allow consistent and regular implementation. 

Bukit Antarabangsa assemblyman Mohamed Azmin Ali said that PBTs would play an important role in determining the success of the policy. 

He also urged the state government to be fair to PBT leaders in ensuring their understanding of CAP and the measures to be taken to reduce the impact of climate change. 

"We acknowledge that Selangor is a developed and industrial state, but not at the expense of the environment and the future of the state," he said in the state legislative assembly. 

"If we have a plan of action that can clarify the measures needed at all levels, then the way we live, our behaviour and the way we work in the community can help reduce the effects of climate change which we are seeing around the world." 

The former Selangor menteri besar also cited the United Nations' recommendations in its climate change report which he said could be used by PBTs in dealing with the effects of the phenomenon. 

He said these included the implementation of energy-efficient buildings due to the rapid development in many districts, as well as initiatives towards a low-carbon public transportation system. 

"There is also a need to invest in renewable energy instead of depending on fossil fuels," he said. 

"Many industries in Selangor are still using fossil fuel to generate energy in their business activities."

Azmin also asked the government to consider sustainable waste management initiatives due to the growing population in Selangor, as well as a boost in green infrastructure to promote biodiversity in the state. 

"These are just some suggestions," he said. 

"If possible, the government could pay serious attention not only to attracting investments but also to how these investments can meet the requirements to minimise the effects of climate change. 

"If the industry does not meet the requirements, the products and services cannot be exported to developed countries," Azmin, who is also a former international trade and industry minister, added.