3 days ago
Penang plots climate of change with action plan
GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Island Climate Action Plan 2030 was handed over to the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) today.
The plan focuses on climate mitigation and adaptation measures.
This plan provides a framework for the council to implement climate mitigation and adaptation actions.
It aims to transform Penang into a low-carbon city by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.
The plan focuses on five themes:
GREEN transportation and pedestrian prioritisation;
PLANNING and managing green spaces;
DEVELOPING resilient communities, and,
DISASTER risk reduction and management.
The document is supported by primary and secondary data, as well as international modelling tools such as the Asia-Pacific Integrated Model, which is recognised by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
This makes it a science-based and internationally credible reference.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Ir
Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed said the document is not merely a technical report.
Rather, it the result of collaboration between researchers from USM, MBPP, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, under the Urban Studies Chair, School of Social Sciences.
"This collaboration represents our commitment to building a more sustainable, climate-resilient, and livable future for Penang.
"As Malaysia's APEX university, USM plays a role not only in producing knowledge and technology but also in leading sustainable development initiatives that are evidence- and science-based.
"Therefore, the Science to Action approach used in the development of this Climate Action Plan aligns with national aspirations and global agendas such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2030) and the Paris Agreement.
He said this at the handover ceremony.
Mayor Datuk Rajendran P. Anthony, who received the doucment, said the council was more than just a city management entity.
He said it was an institution that supported holistic, balanced and livable development.
"The plan is not just a policy document but a manifestation of a shared commitment to make Penang a carbon-free state by 2050.
"It outlines steps to address climate change challenges in a more systematic and holistic way.
"MBPP's role in climate action in Penang is critical.
"In the context of sustainable urban development, resource management, spatial planning and policy enforcement are key elements.
"With the launch of this plan, the council's role in sustainable urban development will be boosted.
