WEEK 7: Challenges to Sustainable Development

Assalamualaikum w.b.t. and hi!

This week’s discussion was about Challenges to Sustainable Development. We started off by discussing current issues happening in Malaysia, such as the Jalur Gemilang issue, illegal durian farming in Pahang, and the construction of illegal temple.

Some argued that the flag issue was not a mistake, but rather intentional, since it had happened several times before. Half of us felt that apologizing is not enough, as the same mistakes may be repeated over and over again. They believed that severe punishment is necessary, as it reflects disrespect towards the country and Muslims, as the crescent symbolise Islam, the country's official religion. The other half, however, believed that the person should be forgiven and given a lighter punishment, such as a fine or community service.

On the other hand, regarding the issue of illegal farming and temple construction, most of us agreed that the individuals involved should have asked for permission in the first place. It would be unfair and unjust to the rightful landowners or the government. Moreover, illegal farming has caused logs from deforestation to be scattered everywhere during floods. Additionally, due to severe illegal logging, landslides are more likely to occur.

The responses varied among students. However, in the end, Prof emphasized that a sustainable society is one that has a big heart—one that forgives, tolerates, and engages in open discussions.

But just my two cents—if we Malaysians are truly living in a sustainable society, should these issues be happening in the first place? Just something for us to ponder.

Another point that caught my attention was when Prof mentioned a statement from the Foreign Minister of Nigeria, regarding how the average African lives on USD 2.30 a day, while a cow in Europe receives an average subsidy of USD 2.20 per day. How can animals and humans receive almost the same allocation? It is clearly inequitable!

We then discuss the challenges to attain sustainable development;

General challenges:

1. Inequalities of access to educational resources- disparities in funding, infrastructure, teacher availability, or social barrier
2. Inequalities of access to health facilities- limited or no access to essential healthcare services
3. Inequalities of access to food- often linked to poverty, economic instability, or inefficient food distribution system
4. Inequalities of access to clean water- commonly in developing regions and closely tied to environmental and infrastructural deficiencies

• These challenges are interconnected and often exacerbate one another.
• Addressing these inequalities requires collaborative efforts involving governments, NGOs, and local communities.

Specific challenges:

1. Climate change and clean energy- combat climate change by transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions 
2. Sustainable transport system- efficient and eco-friendly transport networks 
3. Sustainable consumption and production patterns- minimise waste, reduce resource depletion, and promote circular economies
4. Global poverty- improve living standards and reduce inequality worldwide
5. Social inclusion, demography, and migration issues- ensure equity and harmony in diverse societies 
6. Public health system- provide equitable access to quality health services and address global health crisis
7. Conservation and management of natural resources- ensure the availability of ecosystems, biodiversity, and natural resources for future generations.