New Leadership Appointments Effective January 2025

Climate Governance Malaysia Announces New Leadership Appointments for 2025

Climate Governance Malaysia (CGM) is proud to unveil a new chapter in its leadership journey, with key

appointments and transitions effective January 2025. These changes reflect CGM's commitment to advancing climate governance through strategic leadership and expertise.

New Appointments to the Board of Directors

Dato’ Henry Barlow, a founding member of the CGM Council, transitions to the Board of Directors. With over 50 years of leadership experience in the plantation industry, including roles with the world’s largest plantation company, Dato’ Henry brings unparalleled expertise in corporate governance and sustainability practices, reinforcing CGM’s mission to drive impactful climate action.

Joining Dato’ Henry on the Board are three distinguished independent non-executive directors:

• Tan Sri Tommy Thomas – A preeminent litigation lawyer with 45+ years of expertise and role in landmark cases, he has been recognised as a significant actor in the nation's legal system.

• Tunku Dato’ Paduka Jaafar Laksamana Tunku Nong – A visionary leader committed to driving social impact and empowering communities through strategic governance, stakeholder engagement, and philanthropy.

• Joseph D’ Cruz – A distinguished expert advancing sustainable palm oil through global collaboration,

  innovation and responsible practices.

We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Datin Seri Sunita Rajakumar for her pivotal contributions to CGM's growth and success. Currently serving as a Non-Independent Director on the Board, Datin Seri Sunita will step down as Council Chair but will remain actively involved as the Founder and an esteemed Member of the CGM Council.

Dr. Gary Theseira has been unanimously elected as Chair of the CGM Council. Stepping down from the Board of Directors to focus on Council activities, Dr. Gary brings extensive expertise in policy development, climate negotiations, stakeholder engagement and will play a pivotal role in driving evidence-based policymaking and fostering collaboration to address critical climate challenges.

CGM also takes pride in championing diversity and inclusion, with strong female representation across its

leadership. Women make up 20% of our Board and a majority (57%) of the CGM Council, showcasing the

exceptional talent and impactful leadership of our female members.

Acknowledging CGM’s Evolution and Looking Ahead

Since its inception, CGM has transformed from a small, volunteer-driven start-up into a leader in climate

governance. Today, it delivers impactful programs, facilitates direct engagement with policymakers and regulators, and champions private sector priorities for climate resilience.

The CGM Council serves as the operational backbone, with dedicated volunteers executing program activities, while the independent, non-executive Board ensures robust oversight. As CGM grows and secures larger funding streams, the balance between the Council’s dynamism and the Board’s governance will be key to sustaining its mission.

Quotes

“CGM is 5 years old. Thanks to our committed volunteers and the secretariat, it has achieved outcomes beyond our initial aspirations but our ambition and scale of efforts are increasing.We thought this was a good time to layer on stronger governance. This newly appointed board of independent non-executive directors would help ensure the best interests of CGM continue to be aligned with key stakeholders.”

- Datin Seri Sunita Rajakumar, Founder and Mentor of CGM Council

“CGM’s new arrangements will put the organisation in a stronger position to face the challenges of the future. These challenges are immense and increasing geometrically. They require whole of society efforts at the very least to mitigate the inexorable and other environmental disasters which are bearing down on us.”

- Dato’ Henry Barlow, Chair of CGM Board of Directors

“It is a singular honour to be able to contribute to what is essentially the existential crisis of our generation.We have a tremendous opportunity to be able to effect a change in direction of travel and i am grateful to be able to serve and contribute in the boardroom of Climate Governance Malaysia.”

- Tan Sri Tommy Thomas, Independent Non-Executive Director

“I am honored to join the Board of CGM. Corporate action will play a pivotal role in how Malaysia addresses the climate transition. CGM’s leadership in this area has been instrumental and I hope to help advance this important work in the coming years.”

- Joseph D’ Cruz, Independent Non-Executive Director

“I am both honoured and privileged to join CGM Board. I hope I can contribute to save our mother earth.”

- Tunku Dato’ Paduka Jaafar Laksamana Tunku Nong, Independent Non-Executive Director

“One good test is worth a thousand expert opinions (Dr. Wernher von Braun). As CGM begins its sixth year amid a rash of extreme weather events, the piloting of climate strategies by the corporate sector is more important than ever. I believe that the global journey to climate resilience will favour the boldest and most persistent corporate movers. Where no single party has all the answers, resources, or experience, those who test the most will be rewarded with the largest suite of winning climate solutions.”

-Dr Gary Theseira, Chair of Council