The Green Legacy Johor Summit 2024 officially kicked off today at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre, solidifying Johor’s role as a regional leader in sustainability and climate action.
With the theme “Global Unity for Climate Action,” the summit brought together over 800 participants, including CEOs, executives, SME owners, environmental advocates, and Johor’s citizens, to showcase the state’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Ling Tian Soon, Chairman of Johor’s Health and Environmental Committee, representing Chief Minister Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi, officiated the event, emphasizing Johor’s pivotal role in regional climate efforts. He highlighted the state’s initiatives in renewable energy, green technologies, and sustainable urban development, positioning Johor as a catalyst for innovative climate solutions.
“Today, we reaffirm Johor’s leadership in climate action, not only in Malaysia but on the global stage,” said Ling. “The Green Legacy Johor Summit 2024 is a platform for building partnerships and strategies that will create measurable progress for our environment, economy, and future generations.”
He also underscored Johor’s strategic location as a prime destination for investment in green technologies, urging multi-sectoral collaboration to maintain the state’s attractiveness as a hub for sustainable growth.
Earlier, Datuk Seri Utama Ir. Hasni Mohammad, Chairman of Sustainable Johor, delivered a powerful welcome address. He highlighted Johor’s visionary approach to sustainability, from its ambitious carbon reduction targets to the transformation of industrial areas like Pengerang into green energy hubs.
“Johor isn’t just adopting sustainable practices; we are setting new standards for sustainability in the region,” said Hasni. “Through initiatives like the Iskandar Malaysia Low Carbon Blueprint and innovative public-private partnerships, we’re proving that environmental responsibility can drive significant economic growth.”
His address also emphasized Johor’s alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), positioning the state as a model for sustainable development in Southeast Asia.
Patrick Dixon, futurist and keynote speaker, added, “The discussions and collaborations at the Green Legacy Johor Summit 2024 are crucial in shaping a sustainable future. Johor is taking the lead in tackling today’s pressing challenges by fostering innovative solutions that balance growth with environmental stewardship.”
The summit will feature 20 high-level discussions and workshops, fostering cross-border collaboration and innovation. It will culminate on 10 October 2024 with a strategic framework to guide Johor’s green transformation over the next decade.