Malaysian ideas impress UN meeting
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Innovations pioneered in Malaysia are a major element in the UN's post-2015 global Sustainable Development Goals' final agreement. They offer several proven tactical ideas for improving the world, commented an influential networking organisation.
The UN’s Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), through its Malaysian chapter, cites ways in which the country is “rising to the challenge.” An example: the construction of ingenious, self-sustaining “smart” villages – each lifting about 100 families at a time out of poverty and into affordable homes and employment.
Other creative initiatives underway in Malaysia include guides for minimising the carbon footprint of cities while promoting healthy lifestyles, and using science to extract new wealth from millions of tonnes of palm biomass waste. Observers say such ideas are helping light a path for emerging economy countries.
The achievements also reflect the success of the Global Science and Innovation Advisory Council (GSIAC). Comprised of international experts in education, economics, business, science and technology, it advises Malaysia’s drive to achieve an environmentally-sustainable, high-income economy based on knowledge and innovation.
Tan Sri Zakri Abdul Hamid, science adviser to Malaysia’s prime minister said: “Malaysia continues progressing towards high-income status – $20,000 per capita annually – but recognises inter-generational obligations and is determined to achieve our goal without compromising the future of our successors on this planet.”
