KUALA LUMPUR, July 5 — Malaysia has called on countries participating in the 8th Session of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES8) plenary to learn from the global COVID-19 pandemic by assessing the relationship between biodiversity, water, food, energy and health.
Energy and Natural Resources (KeTSA) Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said Malaysia also emphasised the importance of planning to build capacity and enhanced knowledge among scientists and policymakers.
“IPBES aims to support the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity from a scientific point of view,” he said in a statement today.
KeTSA led the Malaysian delegations comprising 20 officials to the annual plenary session which was held virtually from June 14 to June 24.
He said IPBES is an intergovernmental body whose role is to study issues regarding biodiversity and ecosystem services as well as to strengthen the interface between science and policy on biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Shamsul Anuar said IPBES8 also approved the interim work plan for the 2021-2022 session to build the capacity of member countries, which KeTSA would be actively involved.
The Malaysian delegations comprised representatives from Agriculture and Food Industries Ministry, Sarawak Urban Development and Natural Resources, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia, Department of Biosafety, Department of Fisheries, Department of Agriculture, Sarawak Biodiversity Centre, Sabah Biodiversity Centre and Malaysian Palm Oil Board.
