National Implementation of Agenda 21
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Information Provided by the Government of Malaysia to the
United Nations Department for Policy Coordination and
Sustainable Development |
This country profile has been provided by:
Name of Ministry/Office: Economic Planning Unit
Date: March 1997
Submitted by: Freddie Cho, Director
Mailing address: Economic Planning Unit, Prime Minister's Department, Jalan Dato' Onn, 50502 Kuala Lumpur
Telephone: (603) 293 34 14
Telefax: (603) 238 29 33
E-mail:
Note from the Secretariat: An effort has been made to present all country profiles within a common format, with an equal number of pages. However, where Governments have not provided information for the tables appended to Chapters 4 and 17, those tables have been omitted entirely in order to reduce the overall length of the profile and save paper. Consequently, there may be some minor inconsistencies among the formats of the different country profiles.
All statistics are rendered as provided by the respective Governments.
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APELL | Awareness and Preparedness for Emergencies at Local Level |
CFC | chlorofluorocarbon |
CGIAR | Consultative Group on International Agriculture Research |
CILSS | Permanent Inter-State Committee on Drought Control in the Sahel |
EEZ | exclusive economic zone |
ECA | Economic Commission for Africa |
ECE | Economic Commission for Europe |
ECLAC | Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean |
ELCI | Environmental Liaison Centre International |
EMINWA | environmentally sound management of inland water |
ESCAP | Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific |
ESCWA | Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia |
FAO | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations |
GATT | General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade |
GAW | Global Atmosphere Watch (WMO) |
GEF | Global Environment Facility |
GEMS | Global Environmental Monitoring System (UNEP) |
GEMS/WATER | Global Water Quality Monitoring Programme |
GESAMP | Joint Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Pollution |
GIPME | Global Investigation of Pollution in Marine Environment (UNESCO) |
GIS | Geographical Information System |
GLOBE | Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment |
GOS | Global Observing System (WMO/WWW) |
GRID | Global Resource Information Database |
GSP | generalized system of preferences |
HIV | human immunodeficiency virus |
IAEA | International Atomic Energy Agency |
IAP-WASAD | International Action Programme on Water and Sustainable Agricultural Development |
IARC | International Agency for Research on Cancer |
IBSRAM | International Board of Soil Resources and Management |
ICCA | International Council of Chemical Associations |
ICES | International Council for the Exploration of the Sea |
ICPIC | International Cleaner Production Information Clearing House |
ICSC | International Civil Service Commission |
ICSU | International Council of Scientific Unions |
IEEA | Integrated environmental and economic accounting |
IFAD | International Fund for Agricultural Development |
IGADD | Intergovernmental Authority for Drought and Development |
IGBP | International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (ICSU) |
IGBP/START | International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme/Global Change System for Analysis, Research and Training |
ILO | International Labour Organisation |
IMF | International Monetary Fund |
IMO | International Maritime Organization |
INFOTERRA | International Environment Information system (UNEP) |
IOC | Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission |
IPCC | Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change |
IPCS | International Programme on Chemical Safety |
IPM | integrated pest management |
IRPTC | International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals |
ITC | International Tin Council |
ITTO | International Tropical Timber Organization |
IUCN | International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources |
MARPOL | International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships |
OECD | Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development |
PGRFA | plant genetic resources for agriculture |
PIC | prior informed consent procedure |
SADCC | South African Development Co-ordination Conference |
SARD | sustainable agriculture and rural development |
UNCTAD | United Nations Conference on Trade and Development |
UNDP | United Nations Development Programme |
UNDRO | Office of the United Nations Disaster Relief Coordinator |
UNEP | United Nations Environment Programme |
UNESCO | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization |
UNFPA | United Nations Population Fund |
UNICEF | United Nations Children's Fund |
UNIDO | United Nations Industrial Development Organization |
UNU | United Nations University |
WCP | World Climate Programme (WMO/UNEP/ICSU/UNESCO) |
WFC | World Food Council |
WHO | World Health Organization |
WMO | World Meteorological Organization |
WWF | World Wide Fund for Nature (also called World Wildlife Fund) |
WWW | World Weather Watch (WMO) |
Malaysia's development planning process is well-defined and is based on two major planning instruments. Firstly, we have a long-term Outline Perspective Plan (OPP), which helps concentrate our efforts in achieving well-defined long-term national objectives. The second OPP was for the period 1991-2000 and is concerned largely with promoting social and political stability as well as efficient management of the economy to provide a favourable environment for pursuing growth with equity to achieve the objectives of our National Development Policy. The promotion of a balanced, broad-based, resilient and internationally competitive economy is paramount in order to provide a stronger foundation for the attainment of sustained growth and development, particularly in the process of transformation towards becoming a developed nation by the year 2020.
Malaysia also uses five-year plans, which seeks to implement strategies and programmes and allocate funds to realise the objectives and commitments of the National Development Policy and its OPPs. The results of the Rio process generally, and of Agenda 21 particularly, were incorporated and where appropriate, were integrated into the national planning process when the Sixth Malaysia Plan (1991-1995) was reviewed in 1993, and was also used to input into the planning process of the current Seventh Malaysia Plan, covering the period 1996-2000.
Overall, in the period 1991-1995, the Malaysian economy recorded an average GDP growth of 8.7 per cent per annum. This rapid growth resulted in Malaysia's per capita income rising from RM 6,099 in 1990 to RM 9,786 in 1995. This remarkable performance of the economy has contributed to increasing prosperity for all Malaysians, and the incidence of hardcore and general poverty has been reduced markedly. The primary challenge for the Malaysian economy is now that of transforming the economy from one that is investment-driven to one that is productivity- and quality-driven, through enhancing the efficiency of labour and capital, skills upgrading, capital deepening and improving management and entrepreneurship.
Concomitant with this will be the need to accelerate the shift towards higher value-added activities that are labour-saving as well as capital- and technology-intensive. Such a shift requires the strengthening of the science and technology base and enhancing research and development capability. Besides this, it is necessary for Malaysia to realise the full potential of communications technology.
However, in our quest for continuing high growth, we are also taking steps to ensure that environmental and social considerations are not neglected in line with our philosophy of balanced development and that of sustainable development as envisaged in Agenda 21. As such, Malaysia will continue to take appropriate action to ensure that development is sustainable and balanced. Towards this end, environmental and conservation considerations will increasingly be integrated with development planning.
Overall, environmental and natural resource management under the Seventh Plan period will be guided by the National Policy on Environment, which is being formulated to ensure the long-term sustainability and improvement in the quality of life. The policy aims at promoting economic, social and cultural progress through environmentally-sound and sustainable development. In addition, a National Conservation Policy is also finalised to provide the framework for a comprehensive approach to natural resource development.
These efforts are being supplemented and complemented by investments from the private sector in the field of environment and natural resource management. Efforts are also being undertaken to create niches in environmental products and technologies in which Malaysia has a comparative advantage to cater to growing international demand. Environmental education and public awareness programmes have been stepped up in cooperation with NGOs and the private sector, to educate the public on environmental and conservation issues to realise the goal of sustainable development.
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1. Key National Sustainable Development Coordination Mechanism(s)/Council(s). An Inter-Agency Planning, Group, chaired by the Economic Planning Unit to coordinate national implementation of Agenda 21.
Contact point (Name, Title, Office): Mr. Freddie Cho, Director, Regional Economics Section. Telephone: 03-290 3903 Fax: 603-238 2933 e-mail:
Mailing address: Economic Planning Unit, Prime Minister's Department, Jalan Dato' Onn, 50502 Kuala Lumpur
2. Membership/Composition/Chairperson
2a. List of ministries and agencies involved:
2b. Names of para-statal bodies and institutions involved, as well as participation of academic and private sectors:
2c. Names of non-governmental organizations:
3. Mandate role of above mechanism/council:
4. If available, attach a diagram (organization chart) showing national coordination structure and linkages between ministries:
Submitted by (Name): Freddie Cho Title: Director Date: 1997 Ministry/Office: Economic Planning Unit Telephone: Fax: e-mail:
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AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 2: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
TO ACCELERATE SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES AND RELATED DOMESTIC
POLICIES (with special emphasis on TRADE)
Most progress has been made in liberalizing trade among ASEAN
member countries. Two important milestones
contributing to this are the Framework Agreement on Enhancing ASEAN
Economic Cooperation and the Common
Effective Preferential Tariff Scheme (CEPT) for the ASEAN Free
Trade Area (AFTA).
The AFTA is set to be established by the year 2008, with
reduced tariffs (zero to five percent) for traded,
manufactured and processed agricultural goods among ASEAN
countries. The Revised Basic Agreement on the ASEAN
Industrial Joint Venture promotes intra-ASEAN investment, through
which several projects have been carried out.
Malaysia is party to numerous trade agreements designed to
improve bilateral trading and industrial investment.
Malaysia also plays an active role in international commodity
organizations to promote better and improved trading
conditions and prices for commodities, including against attempts
to impose non-tariff trade barriers on commodities such
as tropical vegetable oils and tropical timber.
Other priority concerns include the stockpiling of certain
commodities, imposition of high tariffs on value-added or
finished products and commodity pricing strategies which do not
reflect true costs of production and/or extraction (e.g.,
environmental and socio-economic costs). External forces in
setting commodity pricing strategies by non-producer
countries are a major concern.
Foreign investment in Malaysia is encouraged, particularly in
the area of high-end technology, non-labour intensive
and non-polluting industries, and foreign investment conditions
aims have been liberalized to this end.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: Increased foreign investments;
shifting the economy to manufacturing and export-oriented
trade
STATUS REPORT: Manufactured goods, such as
textiles and high-technology computers, are playing an increasingly
important role in external trade. A member of ASEAN, Malaysia
favours liberal trade policies and is working towards
the greater liberalization of international trade. A priority is to
increase trade regionally and internationally (most trade is
presently with Europe and the USA).
1. Decision-Making Structure: A ministerial Council
oversees the implementation of the CEPT.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Structural
adjustment programmes have been implemented to change the
economic base from resource-intensive to manufacturing and
export-oriented trade.
There is a lack of clarity on the linkages between
international trade, local industrial development and the
environment
among all levels of government. Work is in progress to improve
techniques for assessing the linkage between trade and
the environment. Capacity-building priorities include improving
environmental accounting skills, policy analysis and
centralized planning and evaluation skills.
3. Major Groups: Various domestic governmental and
non-government agencies have participated in consultations on
the feasibility and national implications of an international
timber certification scheme.
4. Finance: Several fiscal and financial incentives have
been announced to facilitate increased foreign investment.
Innovative international financial mechanisms are still required
and must be open and transparent, particularly with respect
to their eligibility criteria. They must be flexible to suit
individual country needs, be accessible and participatory.
Priority setting must be according to a country's needs and not by
the structure of the funding mechanisms.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Malaysia
participates actively in a number of regional and international
organizations and agreements, such as ASEAN, the East Asia Economic
Caucus (aimed at improving trade conditions and
arrangements); the South Investment Trade and Technology Data
Exchange Centre, the Association of Tin Producing
Countries, the International Tin Agreement and the International
Tropical Timber Agreement. Malaysia is also active in
the Group of 15.
Training programmes are being organized by the Malaysian
Technical Cooperation Programme and the National
Institute of Public Administration to train officials from other
developing countries on economic and environmental
management.
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 3: COMBATING POVERTY
Progress, 1991-1995
The incidence of overall poverty in Malaysia was reduced from
17.1 per cent in 1990 to 9.6 per cent in 1995,
surpassing the Sixth Plan target of 11.1 per cent. During the
Sixth Plan period, the focus of anti-poverty programmes was
directed at the hardcore poor. Efforts to eradicate hardcore
poverty was spearheaded by a special programme known as
the Development Programme For the Poorest. As a result, the
incidence of hardcore poverty in Malaysia decreased from
4.0 per cent in 1990 to 2.2 per cent in 1995.
In alleviating poverty, the Government implemented various
programmes and projects aimed at rural and agricultural
households. Among others, the poor participated and benefitted
from projects such as the Integrated Agricultural
Development Projects, the provision of agriculture infrastructure,
replanting schemes, land consolidation and
rehabilitation, and support services. In addition, greater
employment opportunities from off-farm and non-farm activities
helped to increase income of poor households.
Prospects, 1996-2000
The thrust of poverty eradication will be directed at
reducing the incidence of poverty among Malaysians to 5.5 per
cent by the year 2000. At the same time, hardcore poverty will be
practically eradicated by lowering its incidence to
about 0.5 per cent. Anti-poverty programmes will be targeted
towards eradicating poverty in areas and among groups
with high incidence of poverty. Priority will be given to the
poorest states and districts as well as the Orang Asli
(aboriginal people of Peninsular Malaysia) community and the urban
poor.
While attention will continue to be given to direct welfare
assistance, attitudinal change and the provision of basic
amenities, poverty eradication programmes will place primary
emphasis on income-generating projects. Among others,
the income-generating projects include cash crop cultivation,
livestock rearing, aquaculture, petty trading and cottage
industries.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: The formulation of
poverty alleviation policies and programmes in Malaysia has been
led and coordinated by the Economic Planning Unit, Prime Minister's
Department. The process has been a multi-tiered
one, involving village leaders at the bottom, the federal, state
and local levels of the public service machinery, the Cabinet
and, at the very top, Parliament.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Some of the
pertinent issues include the provision of training, in terms of
attitudinal change as well as the application of improved
production technology and small-scale industry among
agricultural households, and general education for children of poor
households, especially in rural areas.
3. Major Groups: In addition to the government,
non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the state-based
Poverty Eradication Foundations, with the support of the private
sector, have also voluntarily involved themselves in
helping to reduce poverty in Malaysia. The task of coordinating
and monitoring the implementation of various anti-poverty
programmes has been assigned to the Ministry of Rural
Development.
4. Finance: Anti-poverty programmes in Malaysia have
been mostly funded domestically, either through public or
private sources.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Malaysia has
been actively involved in sharing our successful experience in
poverty alleviation in a number of regional and international
seminars/workshops, organized by ESCAP, ECOSOC,
UNDP, the Commonwealth Secretariat, UNCTAD and the United Nations,
as well as through bilateral arrangement with
individual countries.
1985 | 1990 | 1992 | 1995_ | ||
Unemployment (% of labour force) | 6.7 | 5.1 | 3.7 | 2.8 | |
Population living in absolute poverty (% of households) | 20.7 | 17.1 | 13.5 | 9.6 | |
1986-90 | 1991-95 | ||||
Public spending on social sector % | 24.8 | 24.4 | |||
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AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 4: CHANGING CONSUMPTION
PATTERNS
National policy objectives/focus
Strategic policy priorities are in place to reduce poverty and
expand equitable socio-economic development across the
nation, but this must be done in a sustainable manner. This
poverty reduction policy is increasing consumption. Rapid
economic growth has resulted in increased investment (local and
foreign) in the manufacturing sector, low unemployment
and one of the highest per capita incomes in the region.
Several fiscal incentives have been announced to facilitate
the purchase of new, more efficient and cleaner technology
in manufacturing, waste management and air pollution control.
These include the granting of pioneer status to certain
types of companies and exemption of import duty, sales tax and
excise duty from pollution control technology.
Public awareness campaigns are carried out by NGOs and
government agencies and consumer groups are active
partners in controlling consumption. The Government has implemented
a number of financial incentives in order to
encourage increased savings (e.g., raised income tax relief for
insurance contributions).
Malaysia calls for fiscal incentives for the use of clean
technology to be complemented with stringent enforcement of
environmental laws and regulations.
National targets
Specific long-term campaigns are needed to change consumption
patterns.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Efforts are under
way to integrate consumer education into the formal
education system.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: There is little need for financial assistance
to promote changes in consumption and production patterns, since
most effort must come through consumer education programmes and
campaigns. Fiscal incentives and dis-incentives are
required to encourage change in attitudes in both the private
sector and the general public.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Assistance is
sought for the development of awareness programmes and to
prevent dumping of unsustainable products and production technology
and techniques in Malaysia.
GDP per capita (current US$) | 4,228 | ||||
Real GDP growth (%) | 9.5 | ||||
Annual energy consumption per capita (Kg. of oil equivalent per capita) | 922.9 | ||||
Motor vehicles in use per 1000 inhabitants | 122.4 | ||||
Other data
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1 1989.
Government policies affecting consumption and production.
1. Goals and Agents (Stakeholders)
Indicate with a (x) those agents which your Governments policies are meant most to influence.
Agents Goals | |||||
Material efficiency | |||||
Energy efficiency: | |||||
Transport | |||||
Housing | |||||
Other | |||||
Waste: | |||||
Reduce | |||||
Reuse | |||||
Recycle |
Comments: Industries are encouraged to improve production methods through the use of more efficient and cleaner manufacturing technology. This includes companies involved in the storage, treatment and disposal of agricultural and chemical waste.
2. Means & Measures and Agents (Stakeholders)
Indicate with an (R) those agents who assume primary responsibility for any of the policy measures indicated; indicate with an (I) the agents for which the impact is expected to be especially significant.
Agents Means & Measures | |||||
Improving understanding and analysis | |||||
Information and education (e.g., radio/TV/press) | |||||
Research | |||||
Evaluating environmental claims | |||||
Form partnerships | |||||
Applying tools for modifying behaviour | |||||
Community based strategies | |||||
Social incentives/disincentives (e.g., ecolabelling) | |||||
Regulatory instruments | |||||
Economic incentives/disincentives | |||||
Voluntary agreements of producer responsibility for
aspects of product life cycle | |||||
Provision of enabling facilities and
infrastructure (e.g., transportation alternatives, recycling) | |||||
Procurement policy | |||||
Monitoring, evaluating and reviewing performance | |||||
Action campaign | |||||
Other (specify) |
Comments: Civil Society includes non-governmental organizations.
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 5: DEMOGRAPHIC DYNAMICS AND
SUSTAINABILITY
Total population increased at 2.7 per cent per annum during
1991-1995, to reach 20.69 million in 1995. In terms of age
structure, about 35 per cent were below the age of 15, while 3.7
per cent were in the age group 65 and above. The
remaining 61 per cent were in the working age group 15-64.
The dependency ratio dropped to 64 in 1995 as compared to 69
in 1991. The relatively lower dependency ratio can
be explained largely by the reduction in the proportion of the
population aged below 15 years as a result of continued
declines in fertility.
In the Government's view, both population growth and fertility
level are satisfactory and it intents to maintain the status
quo.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: STATUS REPORT: The Malaysian government has
taken steps towards the formulation of a National Plan of Action
on Population and Development (NPA). This plan of action is based
on the findings and recommendations of the
Strategic Plan Studies on the Implementation of the National
Population Policy conducted in 1992 and also the 1994
International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD)
Programme of Action (POA). Twelve chapters have
been identified to be included in the NPA taking into account
national priorities, targets and principles. Malaysia is also
currently in the process of developing a National Programme of
Action for Families which will be ready by mid 1997.
Malaysia is currently reviewing and strengthening its mechanism for
planning, coordinating and implementing population
and family development programmes. To date no national population
programmes have been revised to align them with
the POA.
1. Decision-Making Structure: National Population and
Family Development Board (NPFDB), established in 1966
under the Population and Family Development Act (Revised 1988).
NPFDB is a statutory body under the Ministry of
National Unity and Social Development.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues:
a) Population, family and reproductive health research which
include research in contraceptive technology.
b) Reproductive health service delivery which include family
planning and family counselling.
3. Major Groups: Major target groups include the
general population, families, married women in the reproductive
age group (15-49 years), youth and children.
4. Finance: The population and family development
programmes and activities are domestically funded.
International financing is sought for special activities.
5. Regional/International Cooperation:
a) United Nation Population Fund (UNFPA)
b) Economic and Social Commission for Asia and pacific
(ESCAP)
c) Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN)
d) World Health Organisation
e) United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF)
Population (Thousands) mid-year estimates | 20,689 | |||
Annual rate of increase (1990-1993) | 2.7 | |||
Surface area (Km2) | 329,758 | |||
Population density (people/Km2) | 63 | |||
Other data
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AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 6: PROTECTING AND PROMOTING
HUMAN HEALTH
The combined rural and urban health care system have
contributed to the increased coverage of immunisation against
childhood diseases namely tuberculosis, polio, tetanus, diphtheria
and pertussis, to a level exceeding 85%. The country
eradicated polio in 1995 and is working towards elimination of
tetanus. Significant progress has been made to control
other communicable diseases such as malaria, filariasis, typhoid,
hepatitis A, leprosy, tuberculosis through improved
sanitation facilities; increased access to safe drinking water and
improved dental health. The resurgence of some
communicable diseases as a result of rural-urban and international
transmigration and the spread of AIDS are being
addressed. New programmes are being initiated to address the
challenges posed by increased incidence of non-communicable
diseases like lifestyle-related illnesses, environmental health and
occupational diseases. Health promotion
activities emphasise on advertising and marketing positive health
behaviour through the Health Ministry's annual Healthy
Life Style Campaigns, beginning 1991 onwards, with disease-specific
themes such as prevention of diabetes mellitus in
1996 and healthy diet and nutrition in 1997. Community
participation and the involvement of non-governmental
organisations have contributed to the success in the implementation
of these programmes. Collaboration with government
agencies for example the National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health has allowed emerging problems related to
industrialisation and occupational health to be addressed.
Considerable research has already been undertaken in
vector-borne diseases, nutritional disorder and diarrhoeal
diseases. Much of the work done on community diagnosis has
contributed to the development of the rural health services
and their expansion in the early 60's and 70's. Research
institutions such as the Institute for Medical Research carry out
a
broad range of biomedical and health development-oriented research
as well as act as a reference laboratory and provide
sophisticated diagnostic services. The Public Health Institute as
a lead agency in health system research collaborates with
programme directors and the universities to identify research needs
in the prevention, control and management of diseases
as resource to its teaching programmes for basic and post-basic
health courses.
To ensure quality care and cater for the expanding health
programmes, continuous training of in-service medical and
health personnel is emphasised. The relative shortage of trained
health personnel is a constraint to the health care system.
Remedial measures include increasing the intake of medical students
in the local universities, recruiting foreign doctors
and nurses and reemployment of retired health personnel. Private
institutions are being given permission to run twinning
programmes for medical students with established medical
facilities/universities overseas as well as nursing colleges.
Improved service conditions for doctors and specialists are also
being offered by the government.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: Health for all
STATUS REPORT: Significant progress has been
made in establishing an extensive health care delivery system for
the
rural population, through a network of health facilities supported
by an organised system of referral. Health Centres now
called Health Clinics focus on all 4 components of preventive,
promotive, curative and rehabilitative services such as
communicable disease control, treatment of early conditions and
diseases, maternal and child health services, family
planning and health education. To further facilitate these clinics
to be a one-stop centre, new programmes for the
elderly, adolescent, mental health, workers health and
rehabilitation have been added. Rural Health Clinics, now called
Community Nurse Clinics provide maternal and child health services
and basic curative services. Mobile teams make
regular visits to pockets of population in remote areas and special
institutions. District hospitals provide curative care for
both medical and dental problems. Large District Hospitals are
also providing basic specialists services. The District
Health Office is responsible for preventive programme like
communicable disease control, vector control as well as
environment sanitation. In the urban areas, the establishment of
polyclinics provide affordable outpatient services. The
population also has access to private clinics and hospitals.
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: See "Status
Report".
3. Major Groups: NGOs are particularly active in health
promotion and awareness building activities, through
independent programmes and in cooperation with the government.
Disease control activities are also undertaken by local
authorities with internal health inspectorates and play an
important role in the detection and prevention of communicable
diseases in urban and semi-urban areas.
4. Finance: Local financial resources allocated for the
health sector during the Sixth Malaysia plan (1991 - 1995)
amounted to RM 2,253 million, which is 4.1 percent of the total
development allocation for the period. Funding from
external aid agencies will still be required for specific training
and research programmes and the purchase of specialized
skills.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Malaysia continues
to rely on the World Health Organization and other
international bodies for the development and improvement of various
types of vaccines.
Life expectancy at birth Male Female |
| 67.5 71.6 | 69.6 74.5 | |
Infant mortality (per 1000 live births) | 13 | 11 | ||
Maternal mortality rate (per 100000 live births) | 20 | 20 | ||
Access to safe drinking water (% of population) | 75.1 | 83.6 | ||
Access to sanitation services (% of population) | 83.2 | 92.0 | ||
Other data
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AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 7: PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE HUMAN
SETTLEMENT DEVELOPMENT
NATIONAL PRIORITY: To provide adequate shelter, relocation of industrial areas, improvement of service facilities for waste disposal, sewage treatment, sanitation, water supply and energy and transport. | |
STATUS REPORT: Malaysia is formulating a
National Urban Policy to ensure a more organized urbanization
process
and well-integrated rural-urban development linkages. The main
objective of Malaysia's housing policy is to give
emphasis to the provision of adequate, affordable and quality
housing for all Malaysians. The government is encouraging
the private sector to work with public agencies. The scarcity and
high cost of land in urban areas as well as the rising cost
of labour and materials plague low-cost housing schemes.
Activities to relocate squatters are being developed and
implemented in many towns. Current policies support sustainable construction industry activities. National and state laws and regulations, including the Uniform Building By-laws, provide for such activities to be monitored and enforced by local authorities. State governments have played an important role in fixing quotas and price ceilings to ensure access to low-cost housing by the poor. Banks also help by providing low interest loans. Environmental management strategies are also moving away from remedial towards preventive approaches. The Sewerage Services Act of 1993 aims to facilitate the privatization of public sewerage systems as a means to upgrade them. Environmental and sanitation programmes are being emphasized in rural and squatter areas. A feasibility study is also being planned to look into the privatisation of solid waste management services. Much construction has been based on inappropriate standards. Attention is now focused on developing standards appropriate to tropical and local conditions. The Sixth Malaysia Plan provided for the improvement of major inter-urban road networking, upgrading of road systems, modernization of the railway system and the expansion of maritime and air transportation facilities. Inadequate energy supply, due to growing industrialization, has resulted in the government's push for more efficient and reliable power generation. Nationwide flood mitigation programmes and construction of hydropower and irrigation dams have reduced the extent of flood damage that Malaysia is prone to. Flood mitigation measures however have not kept pace with development in areas most vulnerable to flooding. The Sixth Malaysia Plan also incorporated environmental considerations more thoroughly than the previous five-year plans. Efforts continue to be made, however, to improve the balance between economic growth and environmental considerations. Greater emphasis is being given to incorporate environmental considerations into all aspects of planning and management. The promotion of the environmental impact assessment process is being strengthened. The Town and Country Planning Department undertakes the preparation of development plans. Some Local Authorities within the Malaysian Peninsula started to develop their respective Structure Plans during the Fourth Malaysia Plan. The National Spatial Planning project coordinates and integrates the various national plans and policies (e.g., the National Agriculture Policy, the Industrial Master Plan and the proposed National Urban Policy). The proposed National Urban Policy should address land-use matters. Training is being stressed to improve skills and technical capability, as well as on environmental considerations. Many government agencies, universities and the private sector have set up geographic information systems (GIS) to assist in planning and management. The Department of Environment has a GIS and has set up a computerized database. Inter-agency coordination, information sharing, processing and dissemination needs to be enhanced to promote cross-sectoral integration and institutional capacity-building.
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1. Decision-Making Structure: Major decisions regarding
land are made by State governments. The Federal
Constitution provides for the National Land Council (NLC) to advise
on matters relating to natural resources. The NLC
has contributed to the formation of the National Forestry Policy,
the National Agricultural Policy and the National
Minerals Policy. The Environment Quality Order of 1987 identified
19 categories of development activities that require
environmental impact assessments. This order approves or rejects
the report about a project and not the project itself. A
conservation clause is included in every development project
agreement so as to strengthen environmental control and
preventive measures. Various acts related to sewage and solid
wastes, soil erosion and watershed management need
strengthening. Local planning authorities are responsible for
planning approvals, but face a shortage of technical
personnel to regulate activities.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: See Status
Report.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: Use of funds by developers is monitored and
regulated by the Housing Developers Regulations of 1991.
Lending and funding incentives are available to help developers and
buyers. Incentives include a special fund to subsidize
and promote the construction of low cost houses, better terms of
housing loan to house buyers, better financing facilities to
promote the construction of low to medium priced houses and
allocation of houses for rent to the very poor. Domestic
resources are generally adequate.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Malaysia's chief
needs are in developing technical standards and transfer of
skills and particularly in the area of water supply development,
health programmes and infrastructure construction. There
are specific requirements for external assistance, including the
upgrading of engineering skills and experience for the
development of high-rise buildings and major infrastructure
projects such as highways and airports.
Urban population in % of total population | |||
Annual rate of growth of urban population (%) | |||
Largest city population (in % of total population) | |||
Other data |
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 8: INTEGRATING ENVIRONMENT AND
DEVELOPMENT IN DECISION-MAKING
Many of the themes embodied in Agenda 21 are also embodied in
Malaysian Policy, with the National Development
Council working to integrate other Agenda 21 themes. In
particular, Agenda 21 themes have been integrated into the
country's five-year development plans.
Efforts are underway to strengthen the legislative framework
through continuous review, updating and amendments
where practical to meet future needs. In addition, Malaysia is
developing expertise and tools such as environmental
auditing and natural resources accounting to help quantify impacts
on the cost of environmental regulation. In particular,
a system of Natural Resource Accounting is being developed within
the framework of the National Conservation Strategy
and is geared to illustrate the effects of economic development on
the natural resource base and the refinement of
economic indicators.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: HIGH
STATUS REPORT: The long-term Outline
Perspective Plan 1991-2000 (OPP) guides Malaysian Development.
This
plan is based on the National Development Policy which aims to
eradicate poverty and correct social and economic
imbalances. Within the OPP, national development projects are
drawn up and implemented through a series of Five-Year
Plans, which include a significant environmental component.
Efforts are being undertaken to integrate existing policy
objectives into a National Environment Policy. The intention is to
promote the integration of environmental considerations
into economic development plans and their implementation.
1. Decision-Making Structure (please also refer to the fact
sheet): No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No specific
mention.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: No specific mention.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No specific
mention.
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 9: PROTECTION OF THE
ATMOSPHERE
The Montreal Protocol was ratified in 1989, the London and
Copenhagen Amendments in 1993.
Additional comments relevant to this chapter
The cost to Malaysia of phasing out chlorofluorocarbons and halons
and switching to alternatives has been estimated at
US$ 270 million. Till February 1997, 86 projects and activities
amounting to US$27 million were approved by the
Multilateral Fund for Malaysia. Out of 70 countries which received
assistance from the Fund, Malaysia is leading the list
in terms of number of projects completed and phase-out of CFC and
halon. According to a report by UNDP, Malaysia
ranks highest in CFC project completion score, and it's once
CFC-dependent industries are thriving on new technologies
and their competitive edge. On the occasion of the 10th
anniversary of the Vienna Convention for the protection of the
ozone layer, UNEP bestowed the 1995 Global Ozone Award to Malaysia.
In 1996, Malaysia received Stratospheric
Ozone Protection Award from USEPA.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change was
signed in 1993 and ratified in 1994.
1. Decision-Making Structure: A National Steering
Committee on the Protection of the Ozone Layer has been set
up to oversee the implementation of the National Plan and Country
Programme on CFC and Halon. Such policies and
strategies include monitoring of the import and consumption of
controlled substances and encouragement of the use of
non-CFC. An Action Plan comprising activities and investment
projects is being implemented to phase-out the use of
CFC by the year 2000.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Lack of
technical knowledge related to the conversion process use CFC-free
technology particularly to small medium industries.
3. Major Groups: Representative from seven industrial
working groups play major roles for the implementation of
CFC phase-out programme in Malaysia.
4. Finance: Technical and financial assistance from
the Multilateral Fund of the Montreal Protocol has been a
catalyst for conversion to non-CFC technologies.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Regional
cooperation activity include ODS NETWORK/SEAP which
established since 1993 as well assistance from CIDA, JICA and UNEP.
Latest 1996 (until Oct.) | ||||
CO2 emissions (eq. million tons) | ||||
SOx " | ||||
NOx " | ||||
CH4 " | ||||
Consumption of ozone depleting substances (Tons)(Annex A only) | ||||
Expenditure on air pollution abatement in US$ equivalents (million) | ||||
Other data
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 10: INTEGRATED APPROACH TO
THE PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT OF LAND
RESOURCES
Other than statutory development plans, non-statutory plans
are also prepared which include 26 district development
plans, 28 rural development plans and other special projects,
including the development plan for Putrajaya, Islands, Multi-media
Super Corridor and regional strategic plans.
Towards achieving sustainable development, Act 172 has been
strengthened and updated in 1995 (Act A933)
particularly in protecting the natural environment from impacts of
development. The amendments include the preservation
and planting of trees, preservation of natural topography,
provision of open spaces and a requirement for submitting
development proposal reports in all planning permission
application.
To enhance the efficient use of natural resources and
conservation of the built-environment, an Integrated Planning
and Resource Management System has been adopted. The system
emphasizes the integration of environmental
management, spatial component of national strategies and policies
and access to decision-support information in the
process of development planning at all levels of government
administration.
On the physical planning information system, a Feasibility
Study has been conducted and the programmes are
proposed to be carried out in the Seventh Malaysia Plan. With the
full operation of the system, the monitoring of the use,
conservation and development of land can be carried out more
effectively.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: Land use planning is
considered as an important instrument towards integrated approach
to the
planning and management of land resources through proper use,
conservation and development of land regulated by the
Town and Country Planning Act 1976 (Act 172). Act 172 requires the
local planning authority to prepare development
plans (Structure and Local Plan). Since UNCED and by the end of
1996, all 96 local authorities in Peninsular Malaysia
have their structure plans prepared for their areas. For the
preparation of Local Plans, plans for 62 main urban centres in
27 local authorities have been completed. In the Seventh Malaysia
Plan (1996-2000), emphasis is on the preparation of
local plans for the remainder of the local authority areas. It is
envisaged that by the end of the Seventh Malaysia Plan,
each local authority would have at least one (1) local plan.
1. Decision-Making Structure: Each State in
Peninsular Malaysia has adopted Act 172, and under the provision of
this Act, State Planning Committees (SPCs) have been formed, to
advise the State Government on matters pertaining to
the use, conservation and development of land within the respective
State. All the decisions of the SPC are to be
implemented by all planning agencies in the State.
On the development plan under Act 172, upon approval by the
SPC, the plans will be gazetted and any development
application should conform to the said plans and other material
considerations.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: An advisory body,
the Town and Country Planning Department of the
Ministry of Housing and Local Government administers the Town and
Country Planning Act of 1976. There is a need for
further integration, education and training within existing
institutions with a focus on technology transfer.
The main weakness in human resources is lack of expertise and
knowledge in ensuring that landuse planning
integrates environmental aspect to the fullest to achieve
sustainable development.
3. Major Groups: Preparation of development plans
under Act 172 includes a public participatory mechanism which
involves public consultation during the planning process.
4. Finance: Most programmes and activities carried
out are funded domestically. International financing is sought
for activities requiring technology transfer and technical
cooperation.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: The Danish
Cooperation on Environment and Development (DANCED)
programme has started working on the "Sustainable Urban Development
Project in Sabah and Sarawak".
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 11: COMBATING DEFORESTATION
NATIONAL PRIORITY: VERY HIGH | |
STATUS REPORT: Progress since UNCED includes the
approval of the revised National Forestry Policy and the
amended National Forestry Act. The latter increased fines and
enabled greater enforceability, in particular by the Police
and Armed Forces. Malaysia has designated 43 percent (14.1 million
hectares) of its total land area as Permanent Forest
Estate (PFE) to be managed sustainably. The PFE is classified
under four broad categories based on functional use:
production, protection, amenity and research/education. Efforts
are underway to prepare management and development
plans for non-production components of the PFE. Virgin Jungle
Reserves (VJR) presently total 111,800 hectares and are
to serve as permanent nature reserves and natural arboreta,
conserving various forest and ecological types in their original
conditions. Malaysia has established a Genetic Resource Area to
demonstrate the feasibility of systematic observation of
forest genetic resources. Progress has also been made in improving
forest resources assessment and systematic
observation. The Third Forest Inventory for Peninsular Malaysia
was completed in 1993. A methodology for the
Continuous Forest Resources Monitoring System for Peninsular
Malaysia was also made operational in 1993 with help
from UNDP and FAO. Improvement in techniques and methods of
resource monitoring has been made with the
establishment of remote sensing and GIS units in the Forestry
Department of Sarawak. The capability of the GIS units are
occasionally upgraded. The National Committee on Sustainable
Forest Management in Malaysia was formed in early
1994 to formulate criteria, indicators and activities required to
ensure sustainable management, conservation and
development of Malaysia's forest resources, taking into account the
ITTO Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Forest
Management. To promote investment and involvement of the private sector in plantation forestry, full tax exemption is granted under the Pioneer Status for ten years, or 100 percent tax exemption under the Investment Tax Allowance for five years. Nevertheless, there has not been much response and these incentives may need to be reviewed and/or revised. Other incentives are given to manufacturers who export and there are incentives for research, development and training. Privatization of existing forest plantations is also encouraged, particularly in Peninsular Malaysia. The forestry sector also provides gainful employment for over 160,000 people and contributed to 4 percent of the country's GDP for 1992. Human resource development and training is an on-going activity of the various forestry agencies, carried out with both domestic funding and foreign aid. Malaysia is also active in regional and international collaborative projects. These projects have as a particular focus the aim to enhance transfer of technology, technical cooperation and forest resource monitoring. Malaysia is formulating a national policy and reviewing the adequacy and appropriateness of current legislation to govern the collection of genetic resources and protect farmers' rights, as well as to safeguard plant breeders intellectual property rights. The National Forestry Information System is an on-going programme to ensure full computerization and automation of forest resource information, but suffers from inadequate computer technology and the lack of trained people. Given the shortage, high priority is being accorded to training programmes aimed at enhancing knowledge and skills in forestry and timber industry personnel. Malaysia is currently looking into the implementation of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change with regards to developing forest management guidelines. The lack of base-line information constrains this activity. Management prescriptions have been formulated for rattan and naturally-occurring bamboo forests, mostly in Peninsular Malaysia. However, the inventory of non-wood forest produce is often problematic and tedious, making it difficult to implement these prescriptions (particularly for rattan). The Industrial Master Plan (1986-1995) gave priority to processing industries producing higher value-added timber products. Export performance of these industries, particularly for furniture, have exceeded targets. While consultative committees exist at various levels to deliberate and resolve forest resource management issues, public awareness on forestry issues needs to be improved. In many cases, public consultation is required by law.
|
1. Decision-Making Structure: Each state is empowered to enact laws on forestry and to formulate forest policy independently. The executive authority of the Federal Government only extends to the provision of advice and technical assistance to the states, training and the conduct of research and maintenance of experimental and demonstration stations. The National Forestry Council (NFC), established in 1971 under the National Land Council (NLC), is empowered to promote and control the use of land for mining, agriculture and forestry. All decisions of the NFC must be endorsed by the NLC and are to be implemented by State Governments unless the decisions are within the authority of the Federal Government. Their implementation is monitored quarterly by the Ministry of Primary Industries.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Weaknesses in human resources lie in the general shortage of trained staff, lack of management, planning and implementation skills, as well as lack of knowledge on industrial applications related to forestry.
3. Major Groups: Representatives of major groups participate in open discussions and consensus-building meetings. Afforestation efforts have been impeded by native customary rights, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.
4. Finance: Most programmes and activities carried out in the area of sustainable forest management are funded domestically. International financing is sought for activities requiring technology transfer and technical cooperation.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Key regional and international organizations active in forest programmes include the Danish Cooperation for Environment and Development Programme (DANCED), the UK Overseas Development Administration, the European Union, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ), ITTO and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). External assistance has amounted to approximately US$ 14.5 million for the 1994-1995 period (not including in-kind contributions.
|
Forest Area (Km2)
| Protected forest area
|
|
|
| Roundwood production (solid volume of roundwood without
bark in mill m3)
|
| Deforestation rate (Km2/annum)
|
|
| Reforestation rate (Km2/annum)
|
|
| Other data |
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 12: MANAGING FRAGILE
ECOSYSTEMS: COMBATING DESERTIFICATION AND
DROUGHT
The International Convention to Combat Desertification in
Countries Experiencing Drought and/or Desertification
Additional comments relevant to this chapter
No specific information.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
Particularly in Africa was signed in 1995 but has not been ratified
yet.
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific information.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No specific
information.
3. Major Groups: No specific information.
4. Finance: No specific information.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No specific
information.
Land affected by desertification (Km2)
|
|
|
| Other data
| |
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 13: MANAGING FRAGILE
ECOSYSTEMS: SUSTAINABLE MOUNTAIN DEVELOPMENT
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: The forest area in the Main
Range is protected to safeguard water supply. As no commercial
logging is allowed, the biodiversity is also protected.
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No specific
mention.
3. Major Groups: Meetings are held for the general public
on the importance of mountain ecosystems and watersheds as
safeguards to the country's water supply. One area in need of
strengthening is mitigation guidelines for environmental
protection and watershed management.
4. Finance: No specific mention.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: A project on the
preparation of a management and conservation plan for the
Main Range in Peninsular Malaysia is being negotiated with the
UNDP.
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 14: PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE
AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: Malaysia gives priority to
integrated pest management.
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No specific
mention.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: No specific mention.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No specific
mention.
Latest 1995 | ||||
Agricultural land (Km2) | ||||
Agricultural land as % of total land area | ||||
Agricultural land (m2/capita) | ||||
Latest 199_ | ||||
Consumption of fertilizers per Km2 of agricultural land as of 1990 | ||||
Other data |
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 15: CONSERVATION OF
BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
The Convention on Biological Diversity was signed in 1992 and
ratified in 1994.
Additional comments relevant to this chapter
The main causes for loss of biodiversity in Malaysia are
habitat destruction, over-harvesting and pollution. As of early
1995, the National Policy on Biological Diversity was in the final
phase of formulation before being endorsed by the
Cabinet. The aim of this national strategy is to maintain plants
and animals in their original habitats as well as outside of
their original habitats in facilities such as botanical gardens.
The purpose is to ensure long-term food security and
preservation of the unique biological heritage of Malaysia.
Various areas are designated as national/state parks, wildlife
reserves, sanctuaries and forest reserves. There are plans
to expand the network of conservation areas to ensure full
representation of ecosystems and all ecological processes
therein. The capacity and role of ex-situ facilities in
conservation activities and research are strengthened with a view
to
complementing in-situ conservation activities. Efforts are
underway to expand ex-situ conservation sites, giving
particular
attention to threatened plant species for breeding and as a source
of germplasm.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of
Wild Fauna and Flora was signed in 1977 and
ratified in 1978.
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Key activities
being undertaken at the national level include the strengthening
of government ministries and departments and research institutes
through increased staffing and training.
3. Major Groups: Local communities participate in the
conservation of biological and genetic resources by highlighting
for the government any illegal and unsustainable development that
is carried out at sites known to contain valuable
biological resources.
4. Finance: No specific mention.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Collaboration with
international bodies focuses on training and funding for
projects. Biotechnology has been accessed through international
cooperation, notably in the area of agricultural waste
processing (to useful end-products) technology, product development
from marine, microbial and plant material and to
combat parasitic diseases.
Latest 199_ | |||
Protected area as % of total land area | |||
Number of threatened species | |||
Other data
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 16: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
MANAGEMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
Traditional methods and knowledge of indigenous peoples and
their communities are especially important in the
development and application of biotechnologies in the area of
traditional medicine and food.
A number of projects have been implemented, which include the
conversion of agricultural wastes into useful end-products and
diagnostic tests for patient care, products and processes. The
control mechanisms for the release of
genetically modified organisms or any other biotechnology products
are not as yet fully enforced.
Biotechnology has been accessed through international
cooperation, notably in the area of agricultural waste processing
(to useful end-products) technology, product development from
marine, microbial and plant material and use to combat
parasitic diseases.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: A National Working Group of
Biotechnology exists within the Ministry of Science,
Technology and the Environment as an advisory body for the
management and development of biotechnology and related
matters. This working group works with a number of other public
institutions such as the University of Malaysia, the
Institute of Medical Research and the Malaysia Agricultural
Research and Development Institute. Policies and
programmes are focused on the development and use of
environmentally sound and sustainable technologies.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No specific
mention.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: Research from the public sector is made
available to the private sector at no cost and collaboration
between
the two is encouraged.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: The Japanese
International Cooperation Agency and the WHO are two
organizations which worked to develop diagnostic tests for patient
care and control programmes with the Institute of
Medical Research. This project had an external funding component
of US$ 2 million. Other partners include New
Zealand, Canada, Korea and the United States of America.
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 17: PROTECTION OF THE
OCEANS, ALL KINDS OF SEAS, INCLUDING ENCLOSED
AND SEMI-ENCLOSED SEAS, AND COASTAL AREAS AND THE PROTECTION,
RATIONAL USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR LIVING RESOURCES
The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea was signed in 1982 and
ratified in 1996.
See also the attached tables on the next pages.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No specific
mention.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: No specific mention.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No specific
mention.
Catches of marine species (metric tons)
|
|
| Population in coastal areas
|
|
|
| Population served by waste water treatment (% of
country's | total population)
|
|
| Discharges of oil into coastal waters (metric tons)
|
|
|
| Releases of phosphate into coastal waters (metric tons)
|
|
|
| Releases of nitrate into coastal waters (metric tons)
|
|
|
| Other data |
|
Chapter 17 (Oceans) Continued:
Check the boxes in the column below left: | Check the boxes in the column below right: |
For level of importance use: | For level of implementation use: |
*** = very important | *** = fully covered |
** = important | ** = well covered- gaps being addressed |
* = not important | * = poorly covered |
N = not relevant | O = not covered; N = not relevant |
TABLE I. THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN CONSIDERED BY THE APPROPRIATE COORDINATING MECHANISM FOR INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF COASTAL AND MARINE AREAS AND THEIR RESOURCES.
A. Preparation and implementation of land and water use and siting policies. | ||
B. Implementation of integrated coastal and marine management and sustainable development plans and programmes at appropriate levels. | ||
| C. Preparation of coastal profiles identifying critical areas including eroded zones, physical processes, development patterns, user conflicts and specific priorities for management. |
|
| D. Prior environmental impact assessment, systematic observation and follow-up of major projects, including systematic incorporation of results in decision-making. |
|
E. Contingency plans for human induced and natural disasters. | ||
F. Improvement of coastal human settlements, especially in housing, drinking water and treatment and disposal of sewage, solid wastes and industrial effluents. | ||
| G. Periodic assessment of the impacts of external factors and phenomena to ensure that the objectives of integrated management and sustainable development of coastal areas and marine environment are met. |
|
H. Conservation and restoration of altered critical habitats. | ||
I. Integration of sectoral programmes on sustainable development for settlements, agriculture, tourism, fishing, ports and industries affecting the coastal areas. | ||
J. Infrastructure adaptation and alternative employment. | ||
K. Human resource development and training. | ||
L. Public education, awareness and information programmes. | ||
M. Promoting environmentally sound technology and sustainable practices. | ||
N. Development and simultaneous implementation of environmental quality criteria. |
TABLE II. TECHNOLOGY (MARINE ENVIRONMENT)
| A. Apply preventive, precautionary and anticipatory approaches so as to avoid degradation of the marine environment, as well as to reduce the risk of long-term or irreversible adverse effects upon it. |
|
B. Ensure prior assessment of activities that may have significant adverse impacts upon the marine environment. | ||
C. Integrate protection of the marine environment into relevant general environmental, social and economic development policies. | ||
| D. Develop economic incentives, where appropriate, to apply clean technologies and other means consistent with the internalization of environmental costs, such as the polluter pays principle, so as to avoid degradation of the marine environment. |
|
| E. Improve the living standards of coastal populations, particularly in developing countries, so as to contribute to reducing the degradation of the coastal and marine environment. |
|
F. Effective monitoring and surveillance within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of fish harvesting and transportation of toxic and other hazardous materials. |
TABLE III. SEWAGE RELATED ISSUES
A. Sewage related problems are considered when formulating or reviewing coastal development plans, including human development plans. | ||
B. Sewage treatment facilities are built in accordance with national policies. | ||
| C. Coastal outfalls are located so as to maintain acceptable level of environmental quality and to avoid exposing shell fisheries, water intakes and bathing areas to pathogens. |
|
D. The Government promotes primary treatment of municipal sewage discharged to rivers, estuaries and the sea, or other solutions appropriate to specific sites. | ||
| E. The Government supports the establishment and improvement of local, national, subregional and regional, as necessary, regulatory and monitoring programmes to control effluent discharge. Minimum sewage effluent guidelines and water quality criteria are in use. |
|
TABLE IV. OTHER SOURCES OF MARINE POLLUTION, THE GOVERNMENT HAS:
A. Established or improved upon, as necessary, regulatory and monitoring programmes to control emissions, including recycling technologies. | ||
B. Promoted risk and environmental impact assessments to help ensure an acceptable level of environmental quality. | ||
C. Promoted assessment and cooperation at the regional level, where appropriate, with respect to the input of point source pollutants from the marine environment. | ||
D. Taken steps to eliminate emissions or discharges of organohalogen compounds from the marine environment. | ||
E. Taken steps to eliminate/reduce emissions or discharges or other synthetic organic compounds from the marine environment. | ||
| F. Promoted controls over anthropogenic inputs of nitrogen and phosphorous that enter coastal waters where such problems as eutrophication threaten the marine environment or its resources. |
|
| G. Taken steps to develop and implement environmentally sound land-use techniques and practices to reduce run-off to water courses and estuaries which would cause pollution or degradation of the marine environment. |
|
| H. Promoted the use of environmentally less harmful pesticides and fertilizers and alternative methods for pest control, and considered the prohibition of those found to be environmentally unsound. |
|
| I. Adopted new initiatives at national, subregional and regional levels for controlling the input of non-point source pollutants which require broad changes in sewage and waste management, agricultural practices, mining, construction and transportation. |
|
| J. Taken steps to control and prevent coastal erosion and siltation due to anthropogenic factors related to, inter alia, land-use and construction techniques and practices. |
|
TABLE V. ADDRESSING CRITICAL UNCERTAINTIES FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE. IN ORDER TO IMPLEMENT THIS PROGRAMME AREA THE GOVERNMENT IS CARRYING OUT THE FOLLOWING ACTIVITIES:
| A. Coordinating national and regional observation programmes for coastal and near-shore phenomena related to climate change and for research parameters essential for marine and coastal management in all regions. |
|
B. Providing improved forecasts of marine conditions for the safety of inhabitants of coastal areas and for the efficiency of marine operations. | ||
C. Adopting special measures to cope with and adapt to potential climate change and sea-level rise. | ||
D. Participating in coastal vulnerability assessment, modelling and response strategies particularly for priority areas, such as small islands and low-lying and critical coastal areas. | ||
| E. Identifying ongoing and planned programmes of systematic observation of the marine environment, with a view to integrating activities and establishing priorities to address critical uncertainties for oceans and all seas. |
|
F. Research to determine the marine biological effects of increased levels of ultraviolet rays due to the depletion of the stratospheric ozone layer. | ||
G. Carrying out analysis, assessments and systematic observation of the role of oceans as a carbon sink. |
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 18: PROTECTION OF THE
QUALITY AND SUPPLY OF FRESHWATER RESOURCES:
APPLICATION OF INTEGRATED APPROACHES TO THE DEVELOPMENT,
MANAGEMENT AND USE OF WATER RESOURCES
There are a number of projects on flood mitigation,
hydroelectric power, water supply and irrigation. Many urban
water supply projects are under construction. A special rural
water project is focused on improving the networking of
distribution to rural households, as well as the rehabilitation and
upgrading of water supply systems.
Centralized sewerage systems. It is expected that almost the
entire population will be equipped with acceptable
facilities by the year 2000.
A campaign was launched in 1993 with the aim of improving
awareness among the general public and school children
on the need to preserve rivers. This was a joint effort by
government agencies, NGOs, the private sector and the general
public (including school children). The campaign included: river
adoption, river watch, river expeditions, educational
talks, river beautification and an international symposium.
Various media campaigns are also held on water conservation.
River restoration projects are being undertaken to rehabilitate
polluted rivers, including the ten-year programme started in
1992 to clean the Klang River, which runs through the most
urbanised part of the country.
Rapid development has created gaps in the prevention of
pollution and enforcement of water supply standards. There
is a need for greater efficiency in water use, including in the
area of water re-use for irrigation and improved water
management practices and infrastructure. Water conservation
measures have more potential than cloud seeding and
similar techniques. Conservation measures include reducing
non-revenue water losses and the use of mass media to
increase awareness on proper use.
Increasing urbanization and industrialization should be
streamlined with the identification of new water resources.
Water management problems and capabilities differ in different
parts and States of Malaysia, requiring different
emphases.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: VERY HIGH
STATUS REPORT: Water resources assessment and
monitoring programmes are generally in place. High population
pressures may require greater coverage by hydrometric networks.
Surface and groundwater resources have been fully
identified and quantified and various programmes (at the national
and state levels) are in place for their protection. A
number of water-borne diseases are virtually absent from Malaysia
and activities are underway to reduce those that still
persist (e.g., cholera). Persistent diseases are generally caused
by unhygienic conditions, poverty and poor availability of
potable water supply during dry periods. Water quality criteria
for all water bodies have been developed, but not as yet
promulgated into law.
1. Decision-Making Structure: A more comprehensive and
detailed monitoring system for catchment areas is needed.
States are responsible for land use and water resources. Water
resource management is becoming increasingly
complicated due to inter-State commitments on the production,
transfer and sale of water. The federal government plays
an advisory role, which may be enhanced with the formation of a
National Water Council. The formation of an advisory
body on water supply and management (National Water Council) is
being refined. The Department of Irrigation and
Drainage (DID) is the main agency involved in surface water
assessment and the Geological Survey Department assesses
groundwater resources, receiving information from the DID. State
water departments collect information on potable
water supply, production, treatment and usage. A network of
stations exist for monitoring rainfall and stream flow, with
this system being automated progressively.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Privatization is
considered an important means of capacity building, taking
advantage of the flexibility and expertise of the private sector
and relieving government of training and manpower
constraints.
Training agencies are being encouraged to increase conduct
training within Malaysia (as opposed to overseas training
courses). The DID cooperates with the International Irrigation
Management Institute in Sri Lanka in irrigation
management training. The Public Works Department has regional
training centres and also sends staff for overseas
training (e.g., in water treatment, dam safety design and treatment
plant design). NGOs participate in capacity-building
activities such as seminars, training courses and international
conferences. Information technology is emphasized with
respect to technology transfer and capacity-building.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: Financial resources are generally adequate for
the development of the water supply network, although large
dams for power generation and flood control require foreign
assistance. Most water development projects are financed by
the federal government. Four current projects benefit from foreign
aid. The federal government is reducing its reliance
on foreign aid.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Manpower and
training are the main requirements and areas for international
cooperation and financial assistance.
Fresh water availability (total domestic/external
in million m3)
|
|
|
| Annual withdrawal of freshwater as % of available water
|
|
|
| Other data |
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 19: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
MANAGEMENT OF TOXIC CHEMICALS,
INCLUDING PREVENTION OF ILLEGAL INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC IN TOXIC
AND DANGEROUS PRODUCTS
Emphasis is being placed on: reviewing existing environmental
measures with respect to rapid industrialization; giving
priority to improved measures for toxic chemical and hazardous
waste management, including the use of environmentally
sound technologies; ensuring adherence to acceptable effluent and
emission standards by industry and other environmental
policies and practices; ensuring approval of new and appropriate
industrial investments; ensuring significant efforts in
research and development by the public sector in identifying
suitable and effective waste disposal systems; and providing
clear codes and guidelines for industries and monitoring their
compliance.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: The environmentally sound
management of toxic chemicals and the enhancement of chemical
safety with particular reference to banned and severely restricted
chemicals.
STATUS REPORT: The insufficient number of
trained personnel for environmental management and the need for
high-level liaison between State and federal government are two
constraints in managing toxic chemicals and hazardous wastes.
1. Decision-Making Structure: Three regulatory instruments
control the generation, distribution, treatment and disposal
of toxic chemicals and hazardous wastes since 1989. A
comprehensive act is being developed to consolidate all toxic
chemical related rules and regulations, including proper use,
storage, handling, transport, labelling and disposal.
Malaysia actively participates in the UNEP/FAO Prior Informed
Consent (PIC) procedure, among other similar
notification mechanisms.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Treatment and
disposal facilities are being developed. The Department of
Environment established an inter-agency body called the Technical
Committee on Banned and Severely Restricted
Chemicals, as well as the PIC Working Group to provide support and
policy guidance to implement PIC, the UNEP's
London Guidelines for the Exchange of Information on Chemicals in
International Trade and FAO's Code of Conduct on
toxic chemicals.
The Ministry of Health is formalizing a system for the
disposal of pathologically hazardous wastes from hospitals,
medical centres and research institutions. The Ministry of
Transport is developing guidelines for the land transport of
toxic chemicals and hazardous wastes. Another government
initiative was the establishment of the Environmental Law
Review Committee which has identified areas for improvement in
existing environmental provisions dealing with toxic
chemicals and hazardous wastes. Various programmes are being
carried out, including training on the environmentally
sound management of toxic chemicals and hazardous wastes; education
and awareness building for the general public;
consultations with industry sectors (in particular for the
formulation of guidelines and procedures); regional and
international cooperation; and research and development,
particularly with respect to the Intensification of Research in
Priority Areas Programme.
3. Major Groups: Malaysia approaches the management of
toxic chemicals and hazardous wastes in an integrated
manner, involving various actors and agencies. These include the
National Task Force on the Ozone Layer, various
ministries, universities and research institutions, industry and
NGOs.
4. Finance: No specific mention.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: One of Malaysia's
priorities is to centralize toxic chemical and hazardous
waste storage and treatment facilities in partnership with foreign
companies and agencies. This is being facilitated by
international partnerships and cooperation for technology transfer
and financial assistance.
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 20: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
MANAGEMENT OF HAZARDOUS WASTES,
INCLUDING PREVENTION OF ILLEGAL INTERNATIONAL TRAFFIC IN
HAZARDOUS WASTES
The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements
of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal was
ratified in 1993.
Additional comments relevant to this chapter
Increased enforcement in hazardous waste management and the
preparation of codes of practice for the handling of
hazardous wastes are a national priority. A number of working
groups have been established to address specific waste
streams such as those from oil and petroleum, asbestos, paints and
electroplating. Their focus is to adopt a wide range of
initiatives on, among others, product stewardship and responsible
care, supplementing the Environmental Quality Act of
1974.
See chapter 19 for further information related to hazardous
waste management.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: Three regulatory instruments
control the generation, distribution, treatment and disposal
of toxic chemicals and hazardous wastes since 1989. Environmental
impact assessments are mandatory for activities
involving hazardous wastes.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: Treatment and
disposal facilities are being developed. The government has
approved a private venture to establish a centralized and
integrated facility for receiving, treating and disposal of
hazardous waste in various parts of the country. See chapter 19
for further information.
3. Major Groups: Malaysia approaches management of toxic
chemicals and hazardous wastes in an integrated manner,
involving various actors and agencies. These include the National
Task Force on the Ozone Layer, various ministries,
universities and research institutions, industry and NGOs.
4. Finance: The government provides incentives to promote
the recovery and reutilization of wastes. Various incentives
are available under the Promotion of Investment Act of 1986, which
grants pioneer status to companies for a five-year
period to receive, store and treat hazardous wastes in an
integrated and environmentally sound manner. The provision and
allocation of financial resources are constrained due to competing
demands, e.g., health, sanitation and education.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: Malaysia
participates in various bilateral and multilateral agreements on
hazardous waste management with neighbouring countries. An example
is the Malaysia-Singapore Joint Committee on the
Environment, aimed to control the transboundary movement of
hazardous wastes (through recovery and reuse). The
extension of this initiative to other neighbouring States is being
explored. See chapter 19 for further information.
Generation of hazardous waste (t)
|
|
| Import of hazardous wastes (t)
|
|
|
| Export of hazardous wastes (t)
|
|
|
| Area of land contaminated by hazardous waste (km2)
|
|
|
| Expenditure on hazardous waste treatment (US$)
|
|
|
| Other data
| |
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 21: ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
MANAGEMENT OF SOLID WASTES AND SEWAGE-RELATED ISSUES
NATIONAL PRIORITY: VERY HIGH
STATUS REPORT: Much of Malaysia's priority in
this area refers to the implementation and centralization of
sewerage and sanitation systems and schemes. Privatization is an
important aspect of this activity. The implementation
of these programmes provides almost all of Malaysia's population
with acceptable facilities. Please refer to Chapter 7 on
Human Settlements and Chapter 18 on Freshwater Resources for
additional information.
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No specific
mention.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: No specific mention.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No specific
mention.
Generation of municipal waste (t)*
| N/A
| 3.40 M T
| 4.34 M T
| Waste disposed(Kg/capita)
| N/A
| N/A
| 0.22
| Expenditure on waste collection and treatment (US$)**
(1990-95)
| N/A
| $ 9.0 M
| N/A
| Waste recycling rates (%)
| N/A
| < 1 %
| < 1 %
| Municipal waste disposal (Kg/capita)*
| N/A
| 256
| 281
| Waste reduction rates per unit of GDP (t/year)
| N/A
| N/A
| N/A
| Other data |
|
Note: * estimated only
** Federal/ Grant for waste disposal
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 22: SAFE AND
ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND MANAGEMENT OF RADIOACTIVE
WASTES
Treatment, storage and handling facilities are being
developed, with privatization in mind, and additional legal and
administrative control mechanisms are available for explosive,
radioactive and pathological wastes.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT:
1. Decision-Making Structure: No specific mention.
2. Capacity-Building/Technology Issues: No specific
mention.
3. Major Groups: No specific mention.
4. Finance: No specific mention.
5. Regional/International Cooperation: No specific
mention.
| |
Ch. 24: GLOBAL ACTION FOR WOMEN TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE AND
EQUITABLE DEVELOPMENT. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women was ratified on 5 July 1995.
24.a Increasing the proportion of women decision makers.
No information.
24.b assessing, reviewing, revising and implementing curricula and other educational material with a view to promoting dissemination of gender-relevant knowledge. Curricula and educational material is being revised.
24.c and 24.d formulating and implementing policies, guidelines, strategies and plans for achievement of equality in all aspects of society including issuing a strategy by year 2000 to eliminate obstacles to full participation of women in sustainable development. Policies/strategies etc. will be in place by 2000.
24.e establishing mechanisms by 1995 to assess implementation and impact of development and environment policies and programmes on women Mechanisms are being developed.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
No further information.
| |
Ch. 25: CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT. 25.a establishing processes that promote dialogue between the youth and government at all levels and mechanisms that permit youth access to information and opportunity to present their views on implementing A21.
No information.
Describe their role in the national process:
No information.
25.b reducing youth unemployment
No information.
25.c ensuring that by year 2000 more than 50% of youth -- gender balanced -- have access to appropriate secondary education or vocational training.
The goal set in Agenda 21 has been reached.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
No further information.
| |
Ch. 26: RECOGNIZING AND STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF
INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND THEIR
COMMUNITIES.
26.a establishing a process to empower indigenous people and their communities -- through policies and legal instruments: Policies and legal instruments are in place.
26.3.b strengthening arrangements for active participation in national policies
Indigenous people participate fully in appropriate national processes.
26.3.c involving indigenous people in resource management strategies and programmes at the national and local level.
Mechanisms for involvement are being discussed.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page): No further information.
| |
Ch. 27: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF
NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS: PARTNERS FOR
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT. 27.a developing mechanisms that allow NGOs to play their partnership role responsibly and effectively. 27.b reviewing formal procedures and mechanisms to involve NGOs in decision making and implementation. 27.c promoting and allowing NGOs to participate in the conception, establishment and evaluation of official mechanisms to review Agenda 21 implementation.
Mechanisms exist already.
27.d establishing a mutually productive dialogue by 1995 at the national level between NGOs and governments.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page): There are four NGOs which participate in the Inter-Agency Planning Group: The World Wide Fund for Nature Malaysia, Malaysian Nature Society, Environmental Protection Society of Malaysia and ENSEARCH. NGOs are not included in national delegations to the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development but are adequately consulted at the national level. The government provides financial and technical assistance to support the role of major groups in the Inter-Agency Planning Group, through allocations from the relevant ministries.
| |
Ch. 28: LOCAL AUTHORITIES'
INITIATIVES IN SUPPORT OF AGENDA 21.
28.a encouraging local authorities to implement and monitor programmes that aim to ensure participation of women and youth in local decision making.
The Government supports local Agenda 21 initiatives.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
No further information. | |
Ch. 29: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF WORKERS AND
THEIR TRADE UNIONS. 29.a full participation of workers in implementation and evaluation of A21. 29.b (By year 2000, (a) promoting ratification of ILO conventions; (b) establishing bipartite and tripartite mechanism on safety, health and sustainable development; (c) increasing number of environmental collective agreements; (d) reducing occupational accidents and injuries; (e) increasing workers' education and training efforts.
No information.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
No information.
| |
30: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF BUSINESS AND
INDUSTRY. 30.a increasing the efficiency of resource use, including reuse, recycling, and reduction of waste per unit of economic output.
There are governmental policies encouraging the above objective.
30.b encouraging the concept of stewardship in management and use of natural resources by entrepreneurs.
List any actions taken in this area:
No information.
30.c increasing number of enterprises that subscribe to and implement sustainable development policies.
No information.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
No information.
| |
Ch. 31: SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL
COMMUNITY. 31.a improving exchange of knowledge and concerns between s&t community and the general public.
The scientific community has already established ways in which to address the general public and deal with sustainable development.
31.b developing, improving and promoting international acceptance of codes of practice and guidelines related to science and technology and its role in reconciling environment and development.
No information.
Brief comments on this chapter not already described in chapter 35 (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
No further information.
| |
Ch. 32: STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF
FARMERS. 32.a promoting and encouraging sustainable farming practices and technologies.
32.b developing a policy framework that provides incentives and motivation among farmers for sustainable and efficient farming practices.
32.c enhancing participation of organizations of farmers in design and implementation of sustainable development policies.
No information.
Brief comments on this chapter (maximum 100 words) (please, do not exceed this page):
No information. |
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 33: FINANCIAL RESOURCES
AND MECHANISMS
Financial resources and mechanisms are also covered under each
sectoral chapter of Agenda 21 where
relevant. This summary highlights broader national financial
policies, domestic and external
(including ODA)
Fiscal and monetary management policies, as well as rules and
regulations, are geared towards encouraging the private
sector to contribute to the expansion of the economy. A major
proportion of government revenue comes from taxes and in
particular from the private sector. Public services and utilities
are oriented towards recovering most operational costs to
ensure implementation of priority programmes.
Industrialization is aided by liberal economic policies to
attract and encourage foreign and local investors. The
government will maintain a tight monetary stance to reduce pressure
on wages and infrastructure. The private sector is
being encouraged to complement the government's efforts in human
resource and infrastructure development, through
staff training, carrying out research with local institutions and
establishing training and research centres.
CHANGES IN NATIONAL BUDGET TO ADDRESS SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT:
Various national plans are aimed at promoting economic growth and
socio-economic development. Additional resources
are being allocated for the Seventh Malaysia Plan to reflect
on-going efforts for the efficient management of the public
sector.
Development expenditures in recent years were mainly allocated
for infrastructure, human resources development and
poverty eradication. Environmental aspects are incorporated into
the programmes of relevant government agencies and
reflected in the Federal development allocations.
Foreign equity guidelines are being relaxed considerably for
the approval of investment projects in the manufacturing
and tourism related sectors, as well as for export promotion.
Greater emphasis is needed in the planning and allocation of
available finances to remove constraints in providing attractive
economic incentives and improving the capacity of existing
institutional structures.
NEW ECONOMIC INSTRUMENTS: No specific mention.
ELIMINATION OF ENVIRONMENTALLY UNFRIENDLY SUBSIDIES: No
specific mention.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: Malaysia is experiencing a high
rate of economic growth (e.g., 8.3 percent in 1993) and declining
domestic inflation and unemployment. Economic diversification is
aimed at the manufacturing, construction and service
industries in order to widen and strengthen the economic base,
while reducing reliance on natural resources and
agricultural commodities.
ODA policy issues
Malaysia is a recipient country.
External assistance is provided as capital assistance (loans and grants) and technical assistance (bilateral, multilateral, regional and international). Assistance is directed towards training, feasibility studies, provision of experts, consultants, volunteers and equipment in the agriculture, education, environment and industrial sectors. There is a need to enhance government institutional capability through training and technology transfer. Malaysia extends technical assistance to other developing countries through the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme and the South Investment Trade and Technology Data Exchange Centre, focusing on human resource development and technology development respectively. External assistance would, inter alia, be desirable for Malaysia to: improve the government's institutional capacity for policy analysis and programme evaluation; be responsive to priority needs and actions (i.e., to fund small-scale and large-scale projects and ensure adequate representation of major recipients in the decision-making process); be sufficiently flexible to help meet additional expenses to carry out Agenda 21 projects; and provide resources and technical assistance for specialist training to strengthen technical expertise in priority areas.
|
ODA funding provided or received (Total US$million) | ||||||
Net flow of external capital from all sources as % of GDP | ||||||
Other data
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 34: TRANSFER OF
ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND TECHNOLOGY, COOPERATION
AND CAPACITY-BUILDING
Transfer of environmentally sound technology, cooperation and
capacity-building is also covered under each sectoral
chapter of Agenda 21 where relevant. This summary highlights
broader national policies and actions relating to
chapter 34.
A Cabinet Committee on Science and Technology is chaired by
the Prime Minister and includes coverage of scientific
research and development. Malaysia has established several
national bodies which address policy dimensions relating to
technology transfer, capacity-building, communications and
information. At the regional level, ASEAN addresses
science, technology and environment within its Division of
Functional Cooperation and, in particular, holds regular
meetings on technology transfer and regional collaboration. The
ASEAN Environmental Improvement Project is an
example of regional cooperation in technology transfer, initiated
by the government and which involves NGOs and
industry.
Malaysia also participates actively in the Commonwealth Group
on Technology Management, which is a decentralized
and cooperative network of technology managers, economists,
planners, environmentalists, lawyers, bankers, engineers
and senior corporate executives.
The private sector is also experiencing a growth of businesses
devoted to environmentally sound technology, including
marine environmental services and environmental technology for
industry. Some larger businesses and corporations are
members of the Business Council for Sustainable Development
Malaysia.
MEANS OF IMPLEMENTATION: International partnerships are
sought to facilitate access to new and emerging
environmentally sound technologies in the areas of climate change,
biotechnology, environmental pollution, freshwater
resources and the marine environment. It is Malaysia's view that
financial flows should not be linked to conditionalities.
Assistance is required on concessionary and preferential terms.
This may include international mechanisms for purchasing
technology at commercial rates and passing it to Malaysia on
preferential terms.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: VERY HIGH
STATUS REPORT ON LINKS BETWEEN NATIONAL, REGIONAL
AND INTERNATIONAL INFORMATION
NETWORKS/SYSTEMS: The Standards and Industrial Research
Institute conducts tests on manufacturing methods and
technology and awards ISO certificates to manufacturers that comply
with international manufacturing and environmental
safety standards. Private test centres and laboratories are being
established to carry out technology assessments. Several
NGOs and government agencies are actively involved in the promotion
of clean and efficient technology. A number of
research and academic institutions involved in technology
assessment and improvement are continuously monitored and
upgraded. This includes the Department of Environment.
Describe any work being undertaken at the national or
local level regarding efforts to promote clean production
processes and/or the concepts of eco-efficiency. These processes
may include training, preferential financial
arrangements, information dissemination and changes in legal or
regulatory frameworks. Malaysia has achieved mixed successes in getting industries to adopt more efficient and cleaner technology. Greater efforts are needed to improve the production patterns of older industries such as textiles, timber and metal plating, as well as for smaller and medium-scale industries. Malaysia will continue to aim at the improvement of technology employed by industry. A notable example has been the combined use of legal and administrative tools to bring pollution caused by rubber and palm effluent under control.
Provide information on the adoption of environmental management systems. National reaction to environmental management system standards such as the ISO 14000 Series and others. Please note efforts made at the national level to promote their adoption and the creation of certification infrastructure in order to facilitate access to these standards to local industry.
List and describe programs or work under way to facilitate the transfer of ESTs to small and medium sized enterprises. Please note efforts to facilitate access to financial resources and other transfer strategies. A number of sectoral agencies conduct technology transfer, in particular on information technology and endogenous capacity-building. Within the private sector, technology transfer is under way in the area of forestry, wood processing, marine technology and agriculture. Malaysian authorities give priority to integrated pest management. Various bilateral programmes have been set up which include technology transfer (e.g., with German technical aid in forestry and veterinary sciences, Canadian aid in geographical information systems and Japanese aid in water resources assessment and air pollution). Most of the transfers of technology are bilateral and the choice of technology has therefore been limited. Also, there is limited capacity to evaluate alternative technology. Financing technology transfer is further constrained by the general lack of preferential and concessionary terms. The inadequate flow of financial resources makes it difficult for the rapidly expanding small- and medium-scale industries to bear the full cost of clean technologies.
The most successful importations of technology have been based on synergy between government and the private sector. Small- and medium-sized industries are unable to purchase or absorb environmentally sound technology due to the shortage of information and assessment capabilities as well as by the costs of purchase, installation and maintenance.
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 35: SCIENCE FOR
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
There have been various advances in building up endogenous
capacity in technology development. The migration of
scientists out of the country is an important problem, caused
mainly by relatively low salaries, poor education facilities for
children and better research facilities elsewhere. Also important
is the move of scientists to more lucrative professions.
STEPS TAKEN TO ENHANCE SCIENTIFIC UNDERSTANDING, IMPROVE LONG
TERM SCIENTIFIC
ASSESSMENT, BUILDING OF CAPACITY AND CAPABILITY:
The Malaysian Science and Technology Information Centre
(MASTIC: within the Ministry of Science, Technology
and Environment) develops, collects and disseminates information,
statistics and indicators on science and technology.
MASTIC and the technology transfer section of the Ministry of
International Trade and Industry are addressing the
problem of information flow about technology to small- and
medium-size industries.
NATIONAL PRIORITY: VERY HIGH
STATUS REPORT ON NATIONAL SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE,
RESEARCH NEEDS AND PRIORITIES:
Number of scientists, engineers and technicians engaged in research and experimental development | |||
Total expenditure for research and experimental development (US$eq.) | $ | 19-- | |
Other data
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 36: PROMOTING EDUCATION,
PUBLIC AWARENESS AND TRAINING
The Ministry of Education has played an aggressive role in
its effort to develop a curriculum on environmental
education and implementing varied and diverse teaching and learning
strategies in order to maximise awareness and
internalising values relevant to the preservation and conservation
of the environment. An environmental education
programme is implemented with focus on educating the society to be
more sensitive and concerned about environmental
issues, knowledgeable, skilled and committed in order to act as
individuals or collectively in addressing environmental
issues. This programme cuts across the primary and secondary
school curriculum. It consists of six main topics that are
integrated into all subjects of the curriculum. The topics are:
God The Almighty Creator of the Universe and All Living
Things; The Earth and the Universe; Non Living Things and the
Environment; Interaction between Man, Animal and
Vegetation and Management of the Environment. As such, the
programme is conceived as a process of education about
the environment and through the environment. It aims to help
students understand the relationship between all components
of the environment. Conscious efforts to teach these integrated
elements in the classroom and outside the classroom have
resulted in much greater awareness amongst students about the
quality and state of the environment. Where appropriate
educational television programme produced by the Ministry of
Education has continued to give focus on the need for
awareness on environmental issues. This is to instill viewers the
sense of maintaining the quality of the environment. To
ensure the continuum of environmental awareness, environmental
related courses are also offered at the tertiary levels and
teachers training colleges within their existing curricular. From
time to time specialised short courses and training
programmes which cater to professional from a multitude of
background according to their training and professional
needs and to increase awareness as well as to enhance local
capacity to manage the environment are organised. Promoting
broad public awareness is an essential part of a global education
effort to strengthen attitudes, values and actions which are
compatible with sustainable development. Seminars and workshops
have been organised to impart knowledge and instill
awareness in order to help Malaysians adopt a more
environment-friendly lifestyle and consumption habit.
The post 2000 era will also see further development in the
area of educational broadcasting and the emergence of a
stronger information technology network for educational uses. The
Ministry will continue to provide users of educational
electronic media with programmes and resources relating to the use
of natural resources and the environment.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT: Education is seen as an
important tool in promoting sustainable development and improving
the
capacity of the people to address environment and development
issue. It allows people to become nature sensitive and
aware of the surrounding environment as they learn about conflicts
and issues; develop knowledge about ecology;
understand the relationships between human and nature; and become
committed to reasoning conflicts and problems
affecting their local environment. Thus environmental education is
an educational process about, for and through the
environment to upgrade the living standards of the people. It is
needed by all sectors and levels of society aspiring
towards sustainability which incidentally is an implicit feature of
Malaysia's Vision 2020. The Seventh Malaysia Plan
(1996-2000) has emphasised on ensuring sustainable development
education in all its developmental programmes. The
thrust of the plan includes: infusing formal environmental
education in the school curriculum, active participation of public
and private sectors including NGOs in promoting environmentally
responsible practices; and broad base campaigns
through mass media in encouraging life-long process of
environmental education.
a) Reorientation of education towards sustainable
development: The Department initiated the review of the
present
school textbooks in order to incorporate environmental values, as
well as to remove incorrect or misleading environmental
facts. The review started with the primary text books and will be
continued with the secondary schools. In 1996, emphasis was given to the organization of Environmental Awareness (EA) Camps at the stat level. The Department and the Junior Environmental Group of Malaysia (JEGOM), an NGO active in promoting environmental awareness among the children, have successfully organized the first Malaysian Children Conference on Environment at FRIM, Kepong on 16-20 August, 1996.
b) Increasing public awareness: The Department of Environment organized events in conjunction with Malaysian Environment Week (MEW), the Earth Day (April 22), the World Environment Day (June 5), International Ozone Day (September 16), and Clean Up the World Day (September 17). Public recognition and the use of awards and incentives schemes help to encourage the development and marketing of environmental initiatives among the public. Langkawi Award which is the most prestigious award scheme by the Malaysian Government was organized annually to acknowledge contribution by nay individuals that have made a significant impact in the environmental protection.
c) Promoting training: The Department is in the process of establishing a national environmental training and management centre.
ROLE OF MAJOR GROUPS: The Hibiscus Award and the Tree Planting Group were initiated by a group of NGOs is an excellent illustration of collaboration among NGOs, private sectors and government agencies for the betterment of the environment. The corporate sector in malaysia had been forthcoming in supporting educational and awareness by making contributions to the Environmental Education and Awareness Trust Fund. The private sectors support successfully a number of environmental awareness activities for example in the organization of Environmental Journalism Award, Beautification of Schools and etc. All major newspapers in Malaysia have introduced a special column on environment.
FINANCING AND COST EVALUATION OF THE LABOUR ACTIVITIES: The Department was allocated a total amount of RM15 million to execute its environmental awareness programmes and activities. Beside this allocation, the Department was also allocated RM200 thousand every year under the Promotion of Environmental Research, Education and Awareness Fund. |
Adult literacy rate (%) Male
| 96.0
| Adult literacy rate (%) Female
| 85.7
| % of primary school children reaching grade 5 (1986-93)
|
| 96
| Mean number of years of schooling
|
|
|
| % of GNP spent on education
|
| Females per 100 males in secondary school
| 100
| Women per 100 men in the labour force
|
|
|
| Other data |
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 37: NATIONAL MECHANISMS
AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION FOR
CAPACITY-BUILDING IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
National capacity building is also covered under sectoral
chapters.
Donors: You may wish to describe here how Agenda 21 has
influenced your ODA policies in this area.
Developing countries: You may wish to describe any new
national mechanisms for capacity building - and any
changes in technical cooperation.
Malaysia has a comprehensive network of legal, institutional
and administrative structures, covering nearly all aspects
of environment and development. The institutional framework for
research and development includes over 30 bodies for
research and higher education, as well as efforts by the private
sector. Institutional coverage is greatest in the fields of
medicine, agriculture and the primary resource-based industries.
The National Council for Scientific Research and Development
oversees the implementation of the National Science
Policy and promotes research and development activities in both
government and non-government sectors with the aim of
facilitating industrial development.
Educational twinning programmes such as the International
Medical College have lead to long-term capacity-building.
In spite of efforts to improve endogenous capacity and
capabilities, there has been a net loss of scientists in Malaysia
for
better opportunities in other fields and countries.
Malaysia invested approximately US$ 440 million for the period
1991-1995 in research and development related to
education, awareness and training. The funding programme for the
Intensification of Research in Priority Areas aims to
direct finances towards key areas to support development.
Capacity-building for the assessment of alternative
technologies is needed among government, the business
community, small- and medium-size industries and NGOs.
NATIONAL PRIORITY:
STATUS REPORT ON NATIONAL ENDOGENOUS CAPACITY
BUILDING: Malaysia has established several
national bodies which address policy dimensions relating to
technology transfer, capacity-building, communications and
information (e.g., the Malaysian Science and Technology Information
Centre, the National Advisory Committee on
USAID/ASEAN Environmental Improvement Project, the Institute for
Strategic and International Studies, the Malaysian
Institute for Marine Affairs and the Malaysian Institute for
Economic Research).
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 38: INTERNATIONAL
INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
Ch. 38: Brief summary of any particular UN System
response affecting this country/state:
No specific mention.
|
AGENDA 21 CHAPTER 39: INTERNATIONAL LEGAL
INSTRUMENTS AND MECHANISMS
Ch. 39: International Legal Instruments are covered
under the relevant sectoral chapters. This is a listing of major
agreements/conventions (not already covered) entered into and
relevant to Agenda 21:
No specific mention.
|
2. | International cooperation and trade | |||||
3. | Combating poverty | |||||
4. | Changing consumption patterns | |||||
5. | Demographic dynamics and sustainability | |||||
6. | Human health | |||||
7. | Human settlements | |||||
8. | Integrating E & D in decision-making | |||||
9. | Protection of the atmosphere | |||||
10. | Integrated planning and management of land resources | |||||
11. | Combating deforestation | |||||
12. | Combating desertification and drought | |||||
13. | Sustainable mountain development | |||||
14. | Sustainable agriculture and rural development | |||||
15. | Conservation of biological diversity | |||||
16. | Biotechnology | |||||
17. | Oceans, seas, coastal areas and their living resources | |||||
18. | Freshwater resources | |||||
19. | Toxic chemicals | |||||
20. | Hazardous wastes | |||||
21. | Solid wastes | |||||
22. | Radioactive wastes | |||||
24. | Women in sustainable development | |||||
25. | Children and youth | |||||
26. | Indigenous people | |||||
27. | Non-governmental organizations | |||||
28. | Local authorities | |||||
29. | Workers and trade unions | |||||
30. | Business and industry | |||||
31. | Scientific and technological community | |||||
32. | Farmers | |||||
33. | Financial resources and mechanisms | |||||
34. | Technology, cooperation and capacity-building | |||||
35. | Science for sustainable development | |||||
36. | Education, public awareness and training | |||||
37. | International cooperation for capacity-building | |||||
38. | International institutional arrangements | |||||
39. | International legal instruments | |||||
40. | Information for decision-making |
Computer networks which have access to international information services are generally available throughout the public and private sectors. Malaysia has established a comprehensive national computer network called JARING, which allows for Internet access.
|
Latest 199- | ||||
Number of telephones in use per 100 inhabitants | ||||
Other data |
Copyright © United Nations
Department of Economic and Social Affairs
Comments and suggestions: esa@un.org
Last updated 1 November 1997