Problem overview:

     International commitments: The 1987 Montreal Protocol (MP) and its amendments established an ambitious schedule to reduce and eventually phase-out the production and consumption of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other ozone depleting substances (ODS). Following Malaysia's ratification in 1989, the government faced many challenges to implement its commitments given the importance of CFCs and Halons to the industrial sector.

     Framework for coordination: The Government of Malaysia (GOM) created a National Steering Committee (NSC) to oversee the implementation of the national action plan, which paved the way for Malaysia's ratification in 1989. The NSC is comprised of a Technical Committee and industrial working groups (IWGs) on solvents, foam, aerosol, mobile air conditioning, refrigeration and fire protection. Other IGWs were established later to keep pace with the Protocol's amendments. In 1996, the Department of the Environment created the Ozone Protection Unit (OPU) to serve as the focal point and monitor Malaysia's phase-out activities.

     Integrating all stakeholders: The concept of integrated stakeholder partnership with the industrial sector is a key feature of Malaysia's response and implementation strategy. Partnerships with NGOs are also integral part of the Government's awareness raising activities, particularly on the use of non-ODS technologies.

Background:

     International Commitment and Leadership: Although Malaysia fell under Article 5(1) of the Protocol, which extended a grace period of 10 years to developing countries to meet international commitments, the government pursued a proactive strategy to reduce and limit the use of the controlled substances ahead of schedule.

     At the first Conference of the Parties (COP), Malaysia demonstrated exceptional commitment and leadership to furthering the interests of developing countries in order for them to meet international obligations. In particular, Malaysia played a key role in negotiating the provisions for establishing the Multilateral Fund (MLF) under Article 10 of the MP. As a result of its assertiveness, Malaysia was one of the first and longest running members to serve on the Executive Committee (EXCOM) of the Multilateral Fund (MLF). The MLF Secretariat is located in Montreal.

     Country Programme, Action Plan and Phase-Out: Based on the work of the IWGs, Malaysia submitted its original country programme (CP) and the Action Plan to phase out ODS to the EXCOM in December 1991. The Plan aims to progressively reduce the consumption of ODS in each sector by 2000 through multiple means, including control measures (e.g. enforcement of the Customs Duties Order), incentives (e.g. exemption of import taxes on ODS recycling machines), partnerships for awareness activities, road shows and training, as well as project implementation and monitoring.

     As a result of its pro-active approach and financing through the MLF, Malaysia has succeeded in phasing out more than 50% of CFCs and Halon in its manufacturing sector by 2000. It has thus met it obligations well in advance of the Protocol's timetable for Article 5(1) countries. Malaysia has also ratified the London, Copenhagen, Montreal and Beijing Amendments.