JAKARTA: Asean should tap into Japan and South Korea's expertise in renewable energy and green technology to face the challenges posed by climate change.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Japan has been making great strides in clean energy technology for some time, and it has become a model for many countries in their push toward green initiatives.
"Climate change poses a significant threat to our nations and the planet. We must intensify efforts to combat its impact by adopting and supporting renewable energy solutions.
"Asean could benefit from Japan's expertise in developing clean energy technologies, renewable energy projects and sharing best practices including through the Asean-Japan Energy Efficiency Partnership and Asean-Japan Climate Change Action Agenda 2.0," he said during the 26th Asean-Japan Summit at the Jakarta Convention Centre here today.
Anwar said Malaysia welcomed progress in the implementation and review of the Asean-Japan Economic Resilience Action Plan to promote supply chain resilience, digital innovation, intellectual property and create facilitation.
"The challenge is to increase productivity and address societal challenges. The full and effective implementation of the Asean-Japan Economic Partnership agreement and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership are critical in ensuring our continued economic progress."
Anwar said as one of Asean's earliest partners and investors, Japan has an added advantage and he believed the relationship will continue to cover a more comprehensive network in business and culture.
He said Malaysia appreciates Japan's support for the establishment of a centre for digital innovation and sustainable economy in the Economic Research Institute for Asean and East Asia.
Meanwhile, during the 24th Asean-Republic of Korea Summit, Anwar said it was important for the region to focus on green growth and climate sustainability while optimising land use for food security.
He said Asean should prioritise low carbon and climate resilient socioeconomic development and put in place robust efforts in the conservation of national resources and the ecosystem.
"In the regard, Malaysia welcomes the establishment of Asean-Republic of Korea Cooperational Centre for Carbon Neutrality and Green Transition."
Anwar said Asean and South Korea will also engage in more collaboration to promote digital literacy, innovative technology and interconnected digital infrastructure which are vital to boost economic growth and inclusive empowerment of the people in the region.