[July Theme Report] Climate Changeby Cheryl Chong Yee Ting | 16-07-2023 17:20 |
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 Malaysia, a Southeast Asian country occupying parts of the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo. It's known for its beaches, rainforests and mix of cultural influences. Like many other countries, Malaysia is experiencing the impacts of Climate Change. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events are among the challenges faced. This article explores the causes and consequences of climate change in Malaysia and outlines both short-term solutions and long-term efforts to counteract climate abnormalities.
 One of the main contributor and cause to climate change is the Emission of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) from human activities. In Malaysia, major sources include the burning of fossil fuels for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.  Malaysia's tropical rainforests are being cleared for agriculture, logging, and infrastructure development purposes. Deforestation leads to the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere and reduces the capacity of forests to absorb CO2, contributing to climate change.  In terms of Agriculture and Land Use, the expansion of oil palm and rubber plantations, as well as other agricultural practices, has resulted in land-use changes and increased methane emissions. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas with a higher warming potential than CO2. This is inevitable and a huge issue to be taken note of as Malaysia's economy relies heavily on farming and tourism sectors.  One of the major Consequences of Climate Change in Malaysia includes Rising Temperatures. Malaysia has experienced increasing temperatures over the years, leading to heatwaves and heat-related health risks. High temperatures also affect agriculture, water availability, and energy demand.  In addition, Changing Rainfall Patterns such as disrupted rainfall patterns in Malaysia, resulting in more intense rainfall events, droughts, and water scarcity. These changes impact agriculture, water resources, and the overall ecosystem.  Lastly, Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Erosion. Rising sea levels threaten our coastal areas, including densely populated regions and important ecosystems such as mangroves and coral reefs. Increased erosion and saltwater intrusion pose risks to infrastructure, communities, and biodiversity.  As a respond, citizens should work together to Counteract the climate abnormality of Malaysia, for instance: a. Sustainable Land Use: Protecting and restoring forests, as well as promoting sustainable agricultural practices, can mitigate deforestation and reduce GHG emissions. b. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Developing resilient infrastructure that accounts for changing climate conditions, such as flood-resistant designs and improved drainage systems, can enhance resilience to extreme weather events. c. Environmental Education and Awareness: Promoting education and awareness programs on climate change can foster behavioral changes, encouraging individuals and communities to adopt sustainable practices.  Addressing climate change in Malaysia requires a multi-faceted approach, combining short-term solutions and long-term efforts. By reducing Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) emissions, promoting sustainable land use, investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, and raising awareness, Malaysia can mitigate the impacts of climate change and build a sustainable and resilient future. Collaboration between government, businesses, communities, and individuals is crucial in taking collective action to counteract climate abnormalities and protect Malaysia's environment for future generations. |
