KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 7 — Malaysia has yet to decide whether to implement a compulsory carbon tax for the aviation sector, although the country remains committed to the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.

He said Malaysia would adopt a phased approach in implementing measures to reduce aviation emissions, with details to be announced from time to time.

“But in terms of our strategy and implementation, it differs from country to country. As far as Malaysia is concerned, we have yet to determine whether to implement a carbon tax.

“Of course, implementation will take place in stages, an d a more more detailed implementation will be announced from time to time. But at this point, we have yet to make any decision. CAAM (Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia) has not made any decision regarding compulsory carbon taxation,” he told a press conference in conjunction with the 61st Directors General of Civil Aviation Conference for the Asia-Pacific Region (DGCA/61) here today.

Loke said reducing emissions was part of Malaysia’s national obligation as well as an international obligation under ICAO, with all member states requiring to work towards the 2050 net-zero target.

Meanwhile, the conference, hosted by Malaysia for the first time, brings together civil aviation leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss issues including aviation safety, emerging technologies and sustainability.

Loke said the conference, themed “Smart Skies: Emerging Technologies for Safe, Secure, Sustainable, and Efficient Aviation”, was significant as aviation demand continued to grow while new technologies developed rapidly.

“Technology is already transforming the way aircraft are operated, airspace is managed, and aviation risks are identified. AI (artificial intelligence), unmanned aircraft systems, and advanced air mobility will create further possibilities for connectivity, logistics, and public services,” he said.

He said innovation must be supported by clear policies, credible regulations and strong public confidence to ensure that technological advancement would enhance aviation safety and efficiency rather than create new risks.

Earlier, in his opening remarks, Loke said aviation remained a strategic pillar of national development for Malaysia as an open and trading nation.

“Malaysia aims to strengthen its position as a resilient and competitive regional aviation hub through modern infrastructure, more efficient airspace, strong regulatory institutions and a highly skilled workforce.”

He said Malaysia had established a pathway towards net-zero carbon emissions for international aviation by 2050 through the Malaysia Aviation Decarbonisation Blueprint, aligned with ICAO’s Long-Term Aspirational Goal. — Bernama