Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) recently had the privilege of co-organizing a prestigious event in partnership with the Lancet Countdown. UMT, University of Cyberjaya (UoC), and the Commonwealth Medical Association (CMA) successfully held the Malaysia Launch of the Lancet Countdown 2024 Report and the Malaysia Policy Priorities 2024 at UoC’s Grand Hall on 17 December.

This was UMT’s fifth year participating in the prestigious event that highlights Malaysia’s growing commitment to integrating climate action into health and food security frameworks.

“The Lancet Countdown 2024 Report makes clear the profound link between climate change and public health,” said UMT Vice Chancellor Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim. “UMT is proud to play a central role in developing actionable research and policies that address these critical challenges.”

As a university deeply committed to sustainability and food security, UMT is proud to contribute to the advancement of research and policies that mitigate the impact of climate change on Malaysia’s ecosystems and its people. The findings in this year Lancet Countdown 2024 Report and the Lancet Countdown Malaysia Policy Priorities 2024 are a call to action for all Malaysians to protect the health of the environment, communities, and future generations.

UMT’s Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries (AKUATROP) has been working closely with the Lancet Countdown on climate change issues. The undeniable impacts of climate change are significantly affecting ecosystems worldwide, including the aquatic environment. As a leading aquaculture institute, AKUATROP recognizes its responsibility to address these pressing challenges.

The institute spearheads research on ocean resilience, innovate sustainable aquaculture techniques, and build strategic partnerships with global organizations and local communities. Through a holistic approach that integrates advanced research, education, and capacity-building, AKUATROP is committed to safeguarding ocean health and empowering the next generation to develop solutions for a sustainable and resilient future.  

The event was officiated by Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Noor Hisham Abdullah, Chancellor of the University of Cyberjaya and former Director General of Health Malaysia, who also delivered a keynote address. His remarks emphasized the critical need for collaboration across sectors to mitigate the impacts of climate change on health and to adapt strategies for long-term resilience.