Malaysian bishop calls for rapid action against climate change

As climate change worsens, the Catholics are called to act rapidly against its negative effects.

“We need to be responsible to care for Mother Earth, be mindful of our actions that include sustainable production and consumption, ethical investments, divestment from fossil fuels and any activity harmful to the planet and the people, supporting circular economies, and prioritizing labor and protecting the dignity of workers,” said Archbishop Simon Poh in his June 2023 message in the publication Today’s Catholic.

“In the face of climate change, governments, Christians, and all peoples are asked to act NOW!” he said.

Remembering the Kaamatan and Gawai Harvest Festivals this month in Sarawak and Sabah, the prelate said that these cultural events are a unique way “to celebrate the fruits of the earth that sustain our life.”

“Pentecost celebrates the gift of the life-giving Spirit of God… Gawai celebrates the harvest of the land and the earth's fruits from our labor of love,” Bishop Poh said.

He said, "While we progress in food production with modern farming methods, we are all reminded of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’s responsibility.”

The bishop invites every Catholic to overcome the ‘use and throw’ mentality, reduce waste, and live a sustainable lifestyle by closely practicing the 7Rs every single day: rethink your choices, refuse single-use, reduce consumption, reuse everything, repair before you replace, refurbish / Re-purpose old stuff, and recycle only as last option.- Luke Godoy