Strategies to address Climate Change Issues in Malaysia By Chow Kok Kee Malaysian Meteorological Service

Climate scenarios were generated using outputs from 14 Global Climate Models. Vulnerability and impact assessments carried out for agriculture, forestry,water resources and costal zones Details are available in Malaysia’s Initial National Communication submitted to UNFCCC July 2000

Impacts on Rubber A crop decrease of 3 to 5 % due to drought if mean annual temperature increases to 310. About 273,000 ha (15%of current rubber land) may be affected Impacts on Oil Palm Higher temperature is favouraqble for high fruit production. However, it it leads to drought then 208,000 ha (12% of current oil palm land) would become marginal-to-unsuitable for oil palm plantations

Impacts on Rice Grain yields may decline by 9 to 10% for each 1 0 C rise in temperature Impacts on Water Resources Temperature rises by 1 0 to 5% reduction of runoff Rainfall decreases by 10% 12 to 30% reduction of runoff Impacts on Coastal Zone Tidal inundation, shoreline erosion and increased wave action

Strategies to Address Adverse Impacts of Climate Develop plant varieties that are tolerant/resilient to high temperature and high water use efficiency Develop the means to maximize efficient usage of water and nutrient input Strengthen Integrated Pest Management and bio- control procedures to deal with increased incidences of pests and diseases

Strategies to Address Adverse Impacts of Climate Develop policy planning tools with a view of selecting the least cost options Capacity building through joint R & D on adaptation with scientists from developed countries Access to technology, particularly adaptation technology, through technological cooperation

Conclusion Climate change is a global issue. Malaysia takes several domestic initiatives to address climate change. Malaysia looks forward to close international cooperation that facilitates our capacity in meeting the objectives of the UNFCCC