ESCAP: ASEAN Must Collaborate To Combat Impacts Of Climate Change, Disaster Risk

By Nabilah Saleh and Nur Athirah Mohd Shaharuddin

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 23 (Bernama) -- The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) has urged ASEAN to adopt a more coordinated approach to tackling climate change, warning that worsening climate-related disasters threaten economic and social stability in the region.

Speaking in an interview with Bernama here, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana said the frequency and intensity of natural disasters—such as floods, droughts, and extreme temperatures—have increased due to climate change.

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“We are seeing a worrying trend – climate disasters are becoming more frequent and severe, exacerbating economic vulnerabilities. It is no longer just an environmental issue; it is an economic and humanitarian crisis,” she said.

Alisjahbana visited Malaysia for a two-day working visit from Feb 17, 2025, meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, and the Ministry of Economy's Deputy Secretary General (Macro) Datuk V Valluvan.

Elaborating, she pointed out that ASEAN countries must scale up both climate mitigation and adaptation efforts, particularly in reducing carbon emissions and strengthening disaster resilience.

“This cannot be done in isolation. ASEAN must act collectively to build a climate-resilient future, integrating climate action into economic planning, trade, and infrastructure development,” she added.

ESCAP is working closely with ASEAN nations to promote policies that integrate climate considerations into regional development strategies, Alisjahbana noted.

She further highlighted Malaysia’s leadership in championing renewable energy, particularly through the expansion of the ASEAN Power Grid.

“Malaysia’s role in promoting renewable energy within ASEAN is commendable. The expansion of the ASEAN Power Grid will help accelerate the adoption of renewables and reduce reliance on fossil fuels,” she said.

She also called for ASEAN’s collective action in disaster preparedness and climate finance, urging regional leaders to develop a robust framework for attracting sustainable investments.

“ASEAN has the potential to be a leader in climate action, but it must move beyond discussions and take decisive action. The upcoming ASEAN summits will be a critical moment for the region to demonstrate its commitment to climate resilience,” she said.

With ASEAN leaders set to deliberate on regional climate policies, ESCAP hopes that Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair, will push for stronger commitments and concrete actions in climate governance.

“We have confidence in Malaysia’s ability to drive ASEAN’s climate agenda forward. It is time for the region to act, and Malaysia’s leadership will be crucial in setting the tone,” she said.

-- BERNAMA