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THE government has charted a bold course towards building a resilient green economy under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (13MP). Among its key environmental targets is the commitment to increase carbon dioxide (CO2) storage capacity by 10 million metric tonnes by 2030.

This ambitious goal reflects Malaysia’s broader pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and also aligns with its obligations under the Paris Agreement. While technological solutions, such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), are part of the strategy, Malaysia’s greatest natural asset in this endeavour is its forests.

Forests are the most significant terrestrial carbon sinks in Malaysia, far surpassing other ecosystems in their ability to absorb and store CO2. However, forest degradation and deforestation continue to pose serious threats.

Logging, land conversion for agriculture and infrastructure development have reduced forest cover and weakened the carbon sequestration potential of these ecosystems. Without urgent policy reforms and stronger enforcement mechanisms, Malaysia risks undermining its climate targets.

Recognising this, forest conservation has been incorporated into the 13MP’s green economy framework, but civil society groups and environmental coalitions are calling for more robust commitments.

One such initiative is the Forest Carbon Offset (FCO) mechanism, which aims to create a transparent national carbon credit system for the forestry sector.

This system would allow companies and investors to support forest conservation while offsetting their carbon emissions, thereby promoting both environmental integrity and economic opportunity.

Additionally, the establishment of a unified forest map and a protected forest registry, as demanded by ecological coalitions, would enhance governance and accountability across state jurisdictions.

The importance of forest conservation extends beyond carbon storage. Forests act as natural buffers against floods, droughts and soil erosion. They support water cycles, protect watersheds and provide habitats for thousands of species, many of which are endemic to Malaysia.

Indigenous communities have long served as stewards of these forests, preserving traditional knowledge and sustainable practices that are now being recognised as vital to climate resilience.

To meet the 10 million metric tonne CO2 storage target by 2030, Malaysia must prioritise forest conservation as a central pillar of its climate policy. This includes halting deforestation, restoring degraded lands and expanding protected areas.

Financial mechanisms such as green bonds, direct access funds for indigenous communities, and international climate financing like the Tropical Forest Forever Facility can provide the necessary resources to scale up these efforts.

Furthermore, integrating forest conservation into urban planning, infrastructure development and industrial policy will ensure that economic growth does not come at the expense of ecological stability.

The government must also foster cross-sectoral collaboration, bringing together ministries, local governments, businesses and civil society to co-create solutions that are both sustainable and inclusive.

The 13MP presents a timely opportunity for Malaysia to redefine its development trajectory. By placing forest conservation at the heart of its carbon storage strategy, the country can not only meet its climate goals but also safeguard its natural heritage for future generations.

Forests are not merely passive reservoirs of carbon; they are dynamic ecosystems that underpin Malaysia’s environmental, economic and cultural identity. Protecting them is not just a climate imperative; it is also national responsibility.

Dr Cheah Chan Fatt, Research fellow

Ungku Aziz Centre for Development

Studies Universiti Malaya

The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: Forum@dailyexpress.com.my