[EXPERT REACTION] COP 28 Wins and Losses

The recently concluded 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Dubai has undoubtedly propelled global initiatives forward. However, as we navigate the post-COP landscape, the challenge lies in translating these international commitments into tangible actions on the ground. To shed light on this crucial matter, we have reached out to a few climate experts for their immediate reactions and insights.

[FEATURE ARTICLE] What to Expect at COP28: A Decisive Moment for Global Climate Action

As COP28 kicks off in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from November 30 to December 12, 2023, the urgency of addressing the escalating climate crisis takes centre stage. It marks a pivotal moment for world leaders, country negotiators, activists, representatives of indigenous communities, journalists, and other stakeholders among the expected 70,000 attendees—the largest gathering in the history of United Nations climate change summits. With a resounding call to accelerate global climate action, this conference is an essential platform to reassess commitments and chart a course towards limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

[OPINION] COP28: Opportunity for PM to showcase Malaysia’s global climate leadership on methane

In his U.N. General Assembly address, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed global action on climate change. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, holds the key to rapid warming reduction. Malaysia, already facing climate impacts, commits to methane reduction in line with the Global Methane Pledge. Dr. Shareen Yawanarajah urges a national methane mitigation policy, a domestic charge on methane emissions, and policy support for methane innovation to align with Malaysia's energy transition goals. COP28 provides a platform for Malaysia to showcase its climate leadership.

[OPINION] Reducing Dementia Risk across the Life Course: Never Too Early, Never Too Late 

As Malaysia turns 60, it grapples with a dementia crisis affecting 8.7% of individuals aged 60+. Yet, 40% of dementia cases can be prevented through healthy lifestyles. Misconceptions about dementia's age onset prevail. Modifiable factors like education, obesity, and hearing loss contribute to risks, which can be tackled through education, mental health support, and lifestyle changes. The theme for World Alzheimer's Month 2023, "Never Too Early, Never Too Late," underscores lifelong risk reduction.

[OPINION] Revolutionising the future of energy with solar roadways

Imagine powering your household appliances with sustainable energy generated right from the roads in front of your home. Malaysia, with its warm climate and extensive road network, holds immense potential for harnessing solar power from asphalt pavements. Solar roadways, an emerging technology, can transform pavements into "energy farms," mitigating the heat island effect and environmental pollution. By leveraging on partnerships with stakeholders and research institutes, Malaysia can actively contribute to this visionary endeavour in the energy harvesting industry.

[OPINION] Artscience Enriches STEM Education: Inspiring Idealism, Embracing Realities

Discover how artscience approaches are transforming STEM education, bridging the gap between creativity and knowledge. This opinion article explores the transformative power of artscience activities, from physics-themed theater productions to quantum debates in “wayang kulit” puppet shows. Artscience offers holistic learning experiences, fostering creativity and advocating for sustainable development goals. Embrace the idealism and realities of this interdisciplinary approach to inspire holistic learning and creative problem-solving.

[OPINION] Global Seagrass Loss Reaches Critical Levels, Launch of World Seagrass Day Aims to Raise Awareness

A seagrass emergency has compelled the United Nations, following a resolution by Sri Lanka, to declare a formal World Seagrass Day. For the first time, the humble seagrass will get its own day of celebration and recognition on 1st March 2023, with events and activities taking place around the world to raise awareness about the critical importance of seagrass meadows.

[EXPERT REACTION] COP 27 wins and losses

On 20 November, the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27), that took place in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt concluded with a historic decision to establish and operationalise a loss and damage fund, particularly for developing countries that are most vulnerable to the climate crisis. We asked experts to highlight some of the big wins and losses at COP 27, as well as what they signify for Malaysia and the rest of the world.

[RESEARCH] Better and bigger aquaculture yields with microbubbles 

A study carried out by a group of researchers at Universiti Malaya, microbubble aeration has shown to have profound positive effects on the growth of biofloc cultures and farmed shrimp. Biofloc Technology is the new “blue revolution” in aquaculture for sustainable aquaculture by using minimum resources like feed, water and land.

[OPINION] Make Mental Health For All a Global Priority – Children and Adolescents

The World Health Organization (WHO) celebrates World Mental Health Day annually with a global campaign on the 10th of October. Each year, the gist of the message is clear: we need to raise awareness about mental health, and mobilise efforts to support people living with mental health difficulties. This is absolutely necessary as awareness is required to encourage help-seeking behaviours and consequently, increasing the likelihood of people to reach out for mental health services.