Braden Yong advocates global climate action at COP28

Malaysian youth environmental activist Braden Yong, at the age of 11, has made his mark on the world stage by representing Malaysia at the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) held in Dubai.

His impassioned call for global environmental action resonated at the largest climate conference to date, where he shared insights on the local floods affecting Malaysian communities and urged youths worldwide to actively combat climate change.

COP28 – A global convergence for climate solutions

COP28, spanning from November 30 to December 12 in Dubai, saw the convergence of over 70,000 participants, including world leaders, environmental activists, and youth representatives from 167 countries.

COP28, recognized as the largest climate summit to date, endeavored to tackle pressing global environmental challenges. During the summit, Yong garnered significant acknowledgment for his articulate insights and compelling advocacy on environmental issues.

Supported by 51Talk, Yong, along with youth activists from Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand, launched the “Join Me As A Little Environment Warrior” campaign. This initiative aimed to galvanise public awareness and action against the threats posed by climate change.

Braden Yong’s thoughtful advocacy and preparation

Introduced and invited to COP28 through the online English education platform 51Talk, Yong emerged as Malaysia’s young representative.

Despite his youth and it being his first United Nations conference, Yong demonstrated an impressive command of the English language and a depth of understanding that exceeded expectations.

Before the conference, Yong proactively engaged with Malaysia’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, in November to enhance his understanding of the environmental issues facing Malaysia.

“During the rainy season, the east coast areas of Malaysia often suffer from heavy rain and flooding. Last year, a significant flood disaster caused road interruptions, houses to be submerged, students to stop attending school, and parents to stop working,” Yong shared at the summit.

“As a youth representative of Malaysia, I call on young people worldwide to join me in the environmental protection movement, collectively managing our beautiful home and making our global village better and better,” he passionately urged.

Yong’s impactful presence at COP28 exemplifies the potential of youth voices in driving global environmental change. The convergence of nations and voices at COP28 highlights the urgency and collective responsibility required to address climate challenges.

As Yong continues to inspire with his advocacy, the call for worldwide collaboration in environmental protection echoes beyond the summit, encouraging a shared commitment to safeguarding the planet for future generations.