FROM AMBITION TO ACTION: MALAYSIA ACCELERATES NET-ZERO GOALS AT IGEM 2026 AND KLSS 2026

6 days ago

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Malaysia is turning its climate commitments into tangible green economic growth with the launch of the 17th International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM 2026) and the Kuala Lumpur Sustainability Summit (KLSS 2026) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Officiated by Deputy Prime Minister II and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, YAB Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof, the twin events unite global leaders, financiers, and tech pioneers under the theme "Race Towards Net Zero: Action Beyond Boundaries."

Realising Malaysia’s net-zero ambition demands a unified, whole-of-nation effort, with IGEM and KLSS serving as the twin engines driving this green transformation. While IGEM connects businesses directly with green-tech providers and high-value capital, KLSS unites policymakers, industry leaders, and regulators to align on regional climate strategies. Together, they bridge the gap between high-level policy and real-world execution.

The twin events also reflect the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI, embedding sustainability, well-being, innovation and compassion into Malaysia’s green transition. This approach seeks to ensure that economic growth and technological progress go hand in hand with environmental responsibility and inclusive benefits for the people.

"Decarbonisation is not just an environmental necessity, it is an economic opportunity," said YAB Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah Bin Haji Yusof, Deputy Prime Minister. "Through IGEM and KLSS, we are building a high-value green economy by connecting local businesses to global green supply chains, attracting strategic investment, and creating future-ready jobs."

Key Highlights & Strategic Initiatives:

Record Scale & Commercial Reach: IGEM 2026 features over 450 local and international exhibitors and is projected to generate over RM22.5 billion in business leads. Concurrently, KLSS 2026 hosts over 25 leading sustainability practitioners addressing climate adaptation, sustainable finance, and energy transition.
Workforce Upskilling & Smart Tech: The green transition prioritises local talent through specialised TVET initiatives, such as the green power and energy modules pioneered by industry leaders, alongside university-industry research partnerships, preparing engineers and youth to lead green industries. This human-centric approach is complemented by smart tools, such as AI-driven grid management and predictive systems that optimise resource use in real time.
Global Zero Waste Districts Programme: Malaysia officially launched its participation in the Global Zero Waste Districts Programme. The initiative targets 70% landfill diversion by 2030 and 100% by 2040, accelerating the shift towards a circular economy.
Sustainable Lifestyle Showcase: A new feature at IGEM 2026, this showcase demonstrates practical eco-friendly solutions across healthcare, fashion, food, and beauty, while highlighting emerging career pathways shaping Malaysia’s green economy.

The opening ceremony was attended by Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, YB Dato' Sri Arthur Joseph Kurup; Deputy Minister, YB Tuan Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh; NRES Secretary General, YBhg. Datuk Wira Anis Rizana Mohd Zainudin; Deputy Secretary General, YBhg. Datuk Nor Yahati Awang; and MGTC Group CEO, YBrs. Encik Saiful Adib Abdul Munaff.

MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY (NRES)

8 OCTOBER 2026