KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 — Malaysia is committed to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and prioritising citizens’ well-being, said Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
Nga, in delivering the National Statement at the High-Level Political Forum in conjunction with the United Nations General Assembly in New York, emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to expedite the implementation of the SDGs via a strategic and innovative approach planned and led by several ministries.
“The SDGs are in line with the Malaysia Madani Economy Framework spearheaded by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, aimed at enhancing the people’s quality of life via economic restructuring.
“We must bridge the gap between the rich and the poor in our cities. We cannot allow segregation, where one part of the city is occupied by the less privileged and another by the wealthy,” he said in the statement issued by his ministry.
The two-day forum, themed Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda and Eradicating Poverty in Times of Multiple Crises, began yesterday. It serves as a platform to monitor progress and achievements of the SDGs.
It was attended by 153 heads of state and 17 international organisations.
During the gathering, Nga highlighted the government’s objectives under the Madani Economic Framework to empower and accelerate the country’s economic transformation, boost trade activities, and enhance productivity.
“We aim to achieve the goal of zero poverty by 2025,” he said.
In February last year, the government implemented the People’s Income Initiative to help hardcore poor, poor and low-income groups generate sustainable income instead of relying solely on direct cash aid.
“Last month, the government took a significant step, after decades, by shifting diesel fuel subsidies from a general to a targeted approach,” Nga said.
He also urged all UN members to support a ceasefire in conflict zones.
“There can be no sustainable development or prosperity without peace.
“We must unite to save lives affected by war before we can discuss sustainable global development,” said Nga.
— Bernama
