WWF-Malaysia: Include environmental commitments in political manifestos

Unsustainable land clearing for road building along Katibas River may exacerbate the impact of natural disasters on humans, says WWF-Malaysia.

KUCHING (Nov 30): In light of the upcoming Sarawak election, WWF-Malaysia is urging all political parties and aspiring candidates to include environmental commitments in their manifestos and highlight what they aim to achieve within 100 days and one year of forming the government.

Its conservation director Dr Henry Chan in a recent open letter to all political parties in Sarawak urged future lawmakers to be fully committed in ensuring a healthy and resilient environment for the people and nature in the state.

“As Sarawak enters into post-Covid-19 pandemic recovery era, it is important to remind ourselves, our government leaders as well as lawmakers who chart the future direction of the state, to avert catastrophe caused by human’s folly with nature and recognise the rich natural capital values the state already has in charting its way forward,” he said.

In the open letter, WWF-Malaysia wanted an effective implementation of sound policies and plans based on environmental sustainability, as provided for in the state’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030, and through the introduction or continuation of good existing policies and action plans aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

WWF-Malaysia also urged political parties to up the ante of existing policies by adopting a Green Recovery Plan to intensify activities supporting the conservation and sustainable management of all remaining forests in Sarawak in recognition of ecosystem services to human and wildlife, and for economic wellbeing.

It would also propel the development of a green innovative workforce and investments that support climate resilient and low carbon economies as well as intensify efforts towards zero loss of wildlife and biodiversity caused by poaching and illegal trading.

“Youths and non-state actors are important drivers in advancing the SDGs, in addition to post-Covid-19 plans. Like all deserving residents of Sarawak, they are equal partners to the forming of a democratic state.

“We call upon future lawmakers to give assurance and provide them with equal opportunities to participate in nation building exercises and have their voices heard; avenues to promote their involvement in championing environmental sustainability; and access to information, and proper channels to connect with resource persons and decision makers to collectively build a greener and sustainable Sarawak,” it added.

Dr Chan pointed out that it is important for parties to inform voters of their aspirations and plans for sustainable development so they can make informed decisions.

WWF-Malaysia is a non-partisan environmental NGO since 1972 with dedicated teams present in Sarawak, Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia to advance the conservation agenda.

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