Malaysia’s progress in achieving the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs) through the lens of chemistry

Abstract Malaysia has initiated a roadmap aligned with the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to integrate them into its national development strategy. Chaired by the Prime Minister, the National SDG Council has established a participatory governance structure to foster collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and the private sector, promoting understanding of the SDGs’ interconnectedness. National symposiums and focus group sessions have been conducted to raise awareness and gather stakeholder input in formulating SDG-related policies and programs. Collaboration with NGOs, civil society, and the private sector has been prioritized, with initiatives integrated into the 11th Malaysian Plan to incorporate sustainable development into the national strategy. The creation of a national SDG Roadmap will offer a systematic approach to realizing the UN’s 2030 Agenda for SDGs. Chemistry serves as a crucial element in advancing SDGs by addressing pressing challenges and exploring new avenues for sustainable development. This article examines Malaysia’s sustainable development journey through a chemical lens, addressing 12 of the 17 SDGs. Malaysia aims to play a pivotal role in achieving these goals, addressing environmental, social, and economic challenges by leveraging scientific knowledge and innovation in chemistry. The recommendations underscore Malaysia’s potential to become a more resilient and sustainable nation, contributing significantly to global sustainability efforts.