The law could establish binding sectoral emissions targets, mandatory carbon accounting, and enforcement mechanisms. The federal government commits to international emissions targets, but states collect revenue from logging, land clearing, and mining. Malaysia needs a climate law that treats emissions reduction as non-negotiable, with sectoral targets backed by legal force. When it comes, the carbon tax should be presented for what it is: the cost of remaining competitive in a carbon-constrained world. By delaying a domestic carbon tax, Malaysia offers industries short‑term relief while exposing them to long‑term disruption.