OBJECTIVE:

Friends of Sustainable Malaysia (FoSM), a joint initiative by UCSI IISDS and MIGHT, held a forum on Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) following the recent passing of the CCUS bill. The event featured prominent speakers including Ms Meena Raman (Third World Network), Ms Wan Faezah (ALAM), Dr Elizabeth Phillips (FRIM), and was moderated by Tan Sri Zakri. Dato Seri Mustapa concluded with key remarks. Around 70 participants attended.

The discussion highlighted CCUS as a potentially vital solution for reducing emissions in heavy industries, but also pointed out the risks and controversies surrounding it. Effective implementation requires strong regulatory and legal frameworks, including clear rules on CO₂ ownership, liability, and storage site safety. Carbon pricing mechanisms such as carbon taxes or emissions trading could incentivize adoption.

While the bill’s passage is a step forward, civil society groups stressed the need for greater transparency and public engagement. FoSM played a key role in raising awareness, emphasizing that sustainability must be pursued responsibly and not used as a tool for exploitation or neocolonialism.