KUALA LUMPUR, 23 November 2023 — Distinguished environmental scientist, conservationist, and ornithologist Dr. Mike Rands shared his insights on Nature, Science, and Sustainability during "A Breakfast Talk with Professor Dr. Mike Rands,” held at Taman Tugu, Kuala Lumpur. Co-hosted by Think City and Yayasan Hasanah, the talk was attended by representatives from Government Ministries, agencies, Government-linked companies, civil society organisations and various associations.
During the talk, Dr. Rands, the Master of Darwin College and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University of Cambridge, delved into pressing issues surrounding the climate emergency, the path to achieving net zero, and the urgent need for decarbonisation.
He also emphasised the urgent need for countries around the world to pay immediate attention and take action to tackle the issue of the climate emergency. “From extreme weather events to rising sea levels, the evidence is clear, and it demands our attention and action," said Dr. Rands, who holds a doctorate in ecology from Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, University of Oxford.
On achieving a net-zero future, Dr. Rands stressed the importance of commitments and actions at all levels—national, businesses, NGOs, and individuals. “This collective effort is the only way forward to avert a catastrophic climate emergency,” he said.
Dr. Rands also outlined urgent actions required for decarbonisation, including major transformative changes involving economic growth, human development, environment & biodiversity, and a focus on stronger legislation in areas such as environmental protection. “To make our future better, we need to work together on stronger rules for protecting the environment and ensuring social security. It's not just something we need – it's a promise for a future that's good for everyone,” he said.
As the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) approaches in Dubai later this month, Dr. Rands urged participating countries to set clear and more ambitious targets to achieve key indicators by 2030. He also expressed hope that nations would also commit to more robust measures to reduce biodiversity loss.
Reflecting on the talk, Think City’s Managing Director, Hamdan Abdul Majeed said: “Dr. Rands' insights are invaluable as we address urban sustainability challenges in Malaysia. His insights resonate with Think City's mission to improve liveability in urban environments and enhance climate resilience with nature-based solutions, such as the Penang Nature-Based Climate Adaptation Programme and the Green Connector Networks in Penang and Downtown Kuala Lumpur.”
“Dr. Rands’ emphasis on a collective approach in tackling these issues is a timely reminder for us as we face the impending climate emergency, especially as we approach COP28, underscoring the need to leverage our initiatives for a broader impact and to contribute effectively to the global mission to combat climate change.” he added.
Dato’ Shahira Ahmed Bazari, Trustee and Managing Director of Yayasan Hasanah shared: “Today, safeguarding our environment goes beyond moral duty — it is a vital economic and social necessity. The intricate link between healthy ecosystems and human well-being must be recognised as we navigate the challenges of our changing climate. Dr. Rands' call for actionable solutions deeply resonates with our work at Hasanah in tackling environmental issues in Malaysia; protecting nature while building empowered communities. We stand committed in supporting various conservation programmes by our on-ground partners, such as those actively engaging the indigenous communities -- generating economic benefits for local communities while making strides towards the cause. We're excited that this aligns with one of COP28's focus on putting nature, people, lives and livelihoods at the heart of climate action."
Dr. Rands is currently on a tour across three Asian cities - Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore – meeting Darwin College alumni and connecting with partners in science and technology.
