NOT deviating from the United Nations Agenda 2030, Penang has once again taken the right steps in progressing towards the path of sustainable development.
Despite ongoing global crises such as the Russia-Ukraine war, climate change, and the post-Covid-19 pandemic effects, Penang remains dedicated to the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Marking its second edition in Penang, the Hanwang Forum 2023 took place in G-Hotel in Gurney Drive today. The event brought together like-minded individuals and experts from various backgrounds to engage in discussions on sustainable development.
Organised by the Beijing International Exchange Association and Sustainable Development Committee, this year’s forum centered on the theme “Green Industries and Future Ecological Community under Global Civilisation.”
This year’s forum addressed pertinent issues within the sustainable development agenda, including the green economy, environmental sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and even civilisational philosophy.
Speaking on behalf of Penang state, Local Government, and Town and Country Planning Committee chairman H’ng Mooi Lye highlighted the forum’s potential to benefit all, especially Penang’s industrial players.
Penang, often dubbed the ‘Silicon Valley of the East’, is known for its industrialisation and economic advancement. However, recent global economic, environmental, and societal changes have underscored the significance of sustainable practices and development.
“Therefore, this forum will offer ways for industries to become more resilient through sustainable development, management, and practices.
“Furthermore, it is important to note that Penang is no stranger to sustainable development. Since 2009, the Penang Green Council has introduced green initiatives to inculcate sustainable development, most notably, Penang Green Agenda 2030,” H’ng added.
Ray Liu, president of the Beijing International Exchange Association and Sustainable Development Committee, called on youth to be the driving force in global sustainable development and not just depend on industrial players.
Aside from being the beacon of sustainable development, this forum also serves as a tool to strengthen bilateral ties between China and Malaysia.
Penang’s engagement with China has elevated ever since Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow visited Xiamen, China, two months ago.
With sustainable development at its forefront, this forum can further enhance cooperative measures beyond the realms of economy, tourism, and people-to-people ties between Penang and China.
H’ng also hoped that with the continuity of this forum, Penang would one day become ASEAN’s first green, smart, resilient and sustainable ecological city.
The Hanwang forum, established in 2012 and named after the township affected by the 2008 Sichuan Earthquake, has evolved into a global initiative.
To date, the forum has transformed into a collective effort, with partnerships extending beyond Penang such as in Sweden, Nepal, and Singapore.
Much of the solutions or the way forward for sustainable development draws inspiration from the Hanwang 7+1 Action solution.
Also in attendance were Hanwang Forum 2023, Penang organising chairwoman Nariya Lim, International Scientific Exchange Foundation of China director Chen Xi, and representatives of honorary sponsors of the Hanwang Forum 2023.
Story by Norman Sim
Pix by Law Suun Ting