Nordic countries ramp up efforts to support Malaysia's green transition
100 Swedish companies set sustainability benchmarks in Malaysia.
SHAH ALAM - The Nordic countries - Sweden, Finland, and Norway - are intensifying their collaborative efforts to advance Malaysia's green transition.
This was highlighted during the Nordic Day event where Swedish ambassador to Malaysia Dr Joachim Bergstrom stressed the significant progress these nations have made in sustainability and green initiatives over the past decade.
"Collectively, we lead global indices in green transition efforts, demonstrating a deep commitment to sustainability," Bergstrom said.
He pointed out that approximately 100 Swedish companies are operating in Malaysia, implementing sustainability practices that often exceed the formal requirements of policies and legislation.
"In Malaysia, we strive to facilitate ongoing dialogue among government sectors, civil society, and private industries to chart the next steps in their respective fields," Bergstrom added.
He emphasised that achieving sustainable goals requires awareness, knowledge, political will, and initial investments that promise long-term economic viability.
Norwegian Ambassador to Malaysia, Morten Paulsen, also sees significant potential for Malaysia, particularly as a green hydrogen production hub in the region, leveraging its abundant renewable energy resources, especially in Sarawak.
"Next month, we are hosting a business congregation at the Green Hydrogen Conference in Kuching, Sarawak, which will include several Nordic companies," Paulsen revealed, highlighting the proactive efforts to support Malaysia’s green ambitions.
Similarly, the Finnish Ambassador to Malaysia, Sami Leino revealed Finland's contribution to Malaysia’s sustainability agenda through recent investments in sustainable construction materials and environmentally friendly paints, with new production facilities in Johor.
"These investments reflect the broad scope of sustainability initiatives where our companies collaborate extensively with Malaysian partners," Leino said, illustrating Nordic countries' multi-faceted approach to bolster Malaysia’s green transition.