JOHANNESBURG, November 23, 2025 – Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim urged world leaders at the G20 Summit on Saturday to prioritise the voices of climate-vulnerable regions like Southeast Asia and ensure a just energy transition that does not burden the most vulnerable populations.
In a passionate intervention during Session 2 focused on building a resilient world – encompassing disaster risk reduction, climate change, just energy transitions, and food systems – Anwar emphasised that the rapid pace of global challenges, from climate disasters to energy demands, must be met with inclusive and humane solutions.
“The world is moving swiftly, carrying us amid storms of challenges and hopes,” Anwar said, highlighting ASEAN’s long experience with climate risks and natural disasters. He insisted that resilience is not built in the moment of crisis but through early investment, including early warning systems and cross-border humanitarian cooperation.
Addressing the gap between global energy demands and clean technology capabilities, the Malaysian leader called for honesty, pragmatism, and courage. “We cannot hide behind nauseating rhetoric,” he stated, stressing that energy transitions must be realistic and equitable.
Malaysia, he noted, is actively investing in carbon-reducing technologies such as Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) and regional energy grids to ensure transitions go beyond slogans and become accessible pathways that do not impose punishing burdens on ordinary people.
Anwar reiterated that true development is meaningless if it sidelines humanity, advocating for a fairer global climate finance system that supports smallholder farmers and prevents developing nations from being left behind.
“Malaysia is committed to fostering cooperation at global and regional levels to ensure resilience, justice, and prosperity are not mere elite discourse but a reality for millions pinning their hopes on decisions made here in Johannesburg,” he concluded.
The remarks align with South Africa’s G20 presidency theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability” and come as leaders adopted a declaration emphasising climate action, debt relief, and support for developing countries – despite a U.S. boycott and absences from several major powers.
Anwar, attending as ASEAN Chair 2025 and a guest of host President Cyril Ramaphosa, has positioned Malaysia as a bridge for Global South perspectives throughout the summit. Discussions continue today, with focus shifting toward finalising commitments on inclusive growth and sustainable development ahead of the handover to the United States.
