Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), the World Bank Group, and UNDP Biofin jointly published a report titled "A LEAP for Nature: Advancing Nature-related Financial Risk and Opportunity Assessment in Malaysia" on June 11, 2026 [1, 2].
The report explores how Malaysia's financial sector both depends on and impacts natural ecosystems, emphasizing the risks that nature loss poses to the financial system [1, 2]. It offers practical guidance for financial institutions, firms, and public bodies to evaluate their dependencies on nature, their impacts, and the associated risks and opportunities [1, 2].
Recommendations in the report aim to strengthen Malaysia's framework for assessing nature-related financial risks and foster a transition toward a sustainable, nature-positive economy [1, 2]. BNM Assistant Governor Madelena Mohamed highlighted the urgency for companies and financial institutions to systematically integrate nature considerations into strategy, risk management, and capital allocation. She said, "As highlighted in the report, financial institutions and firms can start by building a better understanding of three areas, namely their dependence on nature, their impact on nature, and the risks and opportunities linked to both" [1].
Judith Green, World Bank Group Malaysia country manager, noted that nature underpins economic activity and financial stability but is often overlooked. She added, "This report provides a practical framework to help institutions identify, assess and manage nature-related risks and opportunities, ultimately supporting the transition toward a more resilient economy and higher-quality jobs" [2].
Besian Xhezo, UNDP Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei deputy resident representative, described the report as "a practical starting point for companies and financial institutions to turn awareness into action and help build a more resilient, competitive, and nature-positive economy" [2].
The report signals a move to embed nature-related risks more firmly in financial decision-making across Malaysia's economy.
