KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 8): Malaysia’s ambition to transition towards a low-carbon, sustainable and green economy requires a whole-of-nation commitment, with the government, industries, financial institutions, research institutions, state governments and local communities playing their respective roles, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof.

Fadillah, who is also the energy transition and water transformation minister, said the government must provide clear direction and effective coordination, while industries must invest and innovate.

“Financial institutions must support credible projects, while research institutions develop solutions suited to our needs. State governments and local communities must be engaged as true partners in implementation,” he said during the opening ceremony of the 17th International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM) 2026 and Kuala Lumpur Sustainability Summit (KLSS) 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on Thursday.

Over the past 16 years, IGEM has generated more than RM86 billion in business leads and attracted over 700,000 participants from around the world.

Last year, IGEM generated RM7.3 billion in green investments through structured business-matching sessions organised by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority and Malaysia External Trade Development Corp, while attracting more than 55,000 visitors and featuring 420 exhibition booths and eight international pavilions.

Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup also called for stronger collaboration among the government, industries, financial institutions, research institutions, state governments and local communities to accelerate Malaysia’s green transition.

Arthur said Malaysia’s climate agenda requires coordinated action at all levels.

“Our transition to net zero is a shared journey, one that requires steady determination and decisive action. Over the course of IGEM 2026, I encourage everyone to build lasting partnerships, scale proven technologies and drive meaningful environmental progress across
our region,” he said.

Arthur said the government was also strengthening the policy and financing ecosystem through initiatives including the National Carbon Market Policy, Green Technology Financing Scheme 5.0, Green Investment Tax Allowance and MyHIJAU Mark.