By Nabilah Saleh
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- Sweden’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Niklas Wiberg, has commended Malaysia’s forward-thinking approach to incorporate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its education system, describing it as a vital endeavour in addressing global challenges and fostering sustainable development.
He applauded Malaysia’s approach in raising awareness about the SDGs among students, noting that education serves as a cornerstone of progress in addressing issues such as climate change, resource exploitation and global inequality.
"Education is the number one issue because you cannot make progress on the SDGs without being aware of them.
"By discussing the challenges Malaysia faces in implementing the SDGs, schools are not only educating students but also creating a sense of shared responsibility," he said.
Wiberg shared these insights with Bernama on the sidelines of Sri Aria School’s Musical Theatre showcase held here recently. The event themed "Our World, Our Responsibility", featured performances centred on themes such as "Kindness & Respect, Charity & Philanthrophy, Modesty & Humility and Gratefulness".
Niklas stated that Malaysia’s integration of the SDGs into the curriculum not only addresses national challenges but also contributes to the global agenda outlined by the United Nations (UN).
"It’s a common responsibility for all of us, especially for local communities, to take the lead in these efforts.”
On the green transition front, Niklas noted that Sweden is working closely with Malaysia to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy solutions and advance SDG targets.
He highlighted the green transition as the top priority for Swedish-Malaysian cooperation, with a focus on innovative technologies and bilateral collaboration.
"The utmost priority now for the Swedish Embassy, together with Business Sweden, is to focus on the green transition.
"This is the number one topic for Europe, as we need to advance our promises on cutting emissions and securing the world’s resources.
He noted that while Malaysia's national plans address key green transition priorities, Sweden’s expertise in green energy and its long-standing relationship with Malaysia, position it as a valuable partner.
"Many of these companies have been here since Malaysia’s independence, and most of them are focused on green transition and green energy.
"We have the motivation, the knowledge, and the technology to help Malaysia advance its SDG goals, particularly in the green sector,” he added.
He said that the Swedish Embassy is actively involved in waste-to-energy projects in Sarawak and the Malaysian Peninsula, and is supporting companies aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030 - well ahead of Malaysia’s 2050 target.
The Swedish Embassy is also working closely with Malaysian authorities including Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) and relevant ministries, to focus on renewable energy projects such as solar panels, biomass factories, and wind power where feasible.
"These efforts are critical for ensuring a sustainable future," Niklas said.
– BERNAMA
