KUCHING: Malaysia's national carbon policy is expected to be in place later this year following discussions involving the Federal Government, state governments and other stakeholders.
Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (pic) said the basis of the policy would be presented at the Malaysia Climate Change Action Council (MyCAC) meeting this week.
The meeting will be chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and attended by mentri besar and chief ministers.
"We will present the details for the national carbon plan to be implemented as soon as possible.
"This doesn't only involve Sarawak as other states are also asking about carbon trading and how they can be involved.
"The Federal Government's role is to facilitate the carbon policy, which we will prepare this year," Nik Nazmi told reporters here on Monday (July 10).
He had earlier met Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during a working visit to the state at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here.
Nik Nazmi also said his ministry would look into the need for legislation on carbon trading following the outcome of the MyCAC meeting.
"At the moment we don't have a Bill on carbon trading, it's a matter at policy level.
"We already have a voluntary carbon market in place with the Bursa Carbon Exchange.
"But there are some improvements to be made that we are discussing," he said.
He added that the ministry was also having discussions with state governments on carbon trading.
"They play an important role because land comes under state jurisdiction, so at the ministry level we will continue to engage with state governments," he said.
Earlier, Nik Nazmi handed over eight completed river corridor rehabilitation projects to the state government during his meeting with Abang Johari.
The projects, which cost a total RM63mil, were carried out by the Irrigation and Drainage Department at Batang Kayan, Batang Balingian, Batang Sadong, Baram River, Rumah Naing, Pekan Sabtu Oya and Betong.
"They involved riverbank strengthening works to prevent erosion and ensure smooth river flow.
"The projects also provide added value through the development of recreational areas for the local community," Nik Nazmi said.
