PENANG officially launched its first-ever physical Green Finance Conference to facilitate and support the state’s financial flow to sustainable development and the environmental sector.
The conference was organised by Penang Green Council (PGC) and supported by platinum, gold and silver sponsors.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said Penang is now ready to work with relevant partners to accelerate green finance initiatives following the state’s steadfastness and readiness for a sustainable pathway over the last 10 years.
“We have been laying the groundwork for a sustainable pathway, and we are now ready to work with partners, especially from the financial sector, to make a sustainable and climate-resilient Penang a reality.
“It is hoped that this conference will be instrumental in increasing the understanding of the role and potential of green finance in Penang’s sustainable development.
“Through the many effective engagements, dialogues and conferences, such as today, Penang can continue to improve as an attractive destination for green investment and finance,” Chow said in his speech during the Penang Green Finance Conference 2022 opening ceremony at G Hotel Gurney in George Town today.
The conference, which officially started today, will end tomorrow at 5.30pm.
It is learnt that a total of 23 speakers from 18 organisations took part in the two-day conference.
While addressing the conference, Chow also reiterated that the Penang Green Agenda (PGA) 2030, which was introduced in 2021, plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable development to help achieve the Penang2030 vision and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“PGA provides targeted recommendations to improve governance and performances in 10 focus areas, including green economy development, land use planning, food and water security and others.
“Penang is the first state to introduce a state-wide Penang Green Industry Programme, spearheaded by PGC.
“The primary aim is to transform our manufacturing sector to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
“We anticipate that hundreds of millions of dollars will be invested to upgrade Penang’s manufacturing sector over the next decade, and it is critical that companies have access to green financing,” Chow added.
Also present during the opening ceremony were state Environment and Welfare Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh, ambassador and head of the European Union delegation to Malaysia Michalis Rokas, PGC general manager Josephine Tan, Pulau Tikus assemblyman Chris Lee Chun Kit and Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) mayor Datuk Azhar Arshad.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi