Malaysia, Japan Strengthen Strategic Cooperation In Environment, REE

PUTRAJAYA, April 13 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Japan today emphasised the importance of strengthening strategic cooperation in the fields of environment, carbon neutrality and rare earth elements (REE).

The matter was raised during a high-level meeting today between Natural Resources and Environment Minsiter Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup and the Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata.

According to the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry (NRES) in a statement today, the main focus of the discussion was on balancing economic growth with climate targets and the utilisation of technological innovations.

"Both parties also emphasised the importance of strengthening strategic cooperation in the fields of  environment, carbon eligibility and REE.

"Additionally, focus is given to the development of a circular economy through electronic waste management and the processing of palm oil by-products, strengthening energy security through liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply, and the sustainable development of the REE industry with the support of Japanese technical expertise," said NRES.

According to NRES, the discussions also included efforts to finalise the Comprehensive Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) and the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) scheduled to be signed this June, as well as exploring cooperation in decarbonisation technologies, including the production of sustainable aviation fuel in Sarawak.

In addition, aspects of conservation and cultural exchange, including efforts to conserve wildlife as well as the success of the Malayan tapir breeding programme in Japan, and participation in horticultural expositions were also discussed.

"The minister expressed confidence that this strategic partnership will not only drive technological innovation, but will also ensure Malaysia remains a regional hub for green investment and responsible natural resource management," said NRES.

Earlier, Arthur received a courtesy visit from Shikata, aimed at strengthening strategic bilateral relations and detailing key deliverables in conjunction with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Japan in June.

-- BERNAMA