Sabah Seeks Green, Nature Capital Investment, Says Dr Jeffrey

Sabah Seeks Green, Nature Capital Investment, Says Dr Jeffrey
DAVOS, Switzerland: Datuk Dr. Jeffrey Kitingan urged global investors to explore Sabah’s growing opportunities in conservation, green energy nature capital, as the world pivots away from fossil fuels and environmentally harmful industries.

Addressing an international audience at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Dr. Jeffrey highlighted the rising trend in global investment aimed at combating carbon emissions, expanding green energy infrastructure, and promoting circular economies to tackle climate change.

He emphasized that the Malaysian region of Sabah holds significant potential across multiple sectors, including the Blue Economy, Green and Nature Capital Economy and sustainable food production.

“The Sabah Government has strategically set aside two million hectares of forest for 100 years of conservation,” Dr. Jeffrey said.“This initiative is designed not only to protect the environment and mitigate climate change but also to generate long-term carbon credit revenues.”
However, he urged investors to look beyond carbon markets.

He emphasized that investments in nature capital offer greater long-term value, generating sustainable income while safeguarding ecosystems vital for planetary health.

The contribution of nature capital to the global economy, Dr. Jeffrey pointed out, is estimated to be between USD125 trillion and USD140 trillion annually – a value not widely recognized by many.

He also underscored the importance of Borneo’s rainforests, which play a pivotal role in regulating both regional and global climate systems, particularly for countries like Australia, which depends on the stability of Borneo’s forests for its rainfall and river systems.

Dr. Jeffrey also advocated for innovative financial solutions, such as green coins backed by nature capital, supported by appropriate regulatory frameworks. He emphasized that these ventures should prioritize environmental responsibility over profit.

“Investment in nature capital is not just about economic returns, but about a shared responsibility to ensure the planet’s survival for future generations,” he said.