RimbaWatch had criticised the “significant” number of representatives from the fossil fuel sector in the delegation, naming Petronas and Tenaga Nasional Bhd, among others.

In a statement, the ministry said Petronas and TNB played a significant role in Malaysia’s commitment to its strategy to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

It said Petronas had been investing in new businesses in renewables and low-carbon energy while TNB played a key role in the National Energy Transition Roadmap.

“Both TNB and Petronas (through Gentari) are also involved in major investments in renewables globally,” it said.

“It should also be noted that it was the sustainability divisions of these companies that attended COP29.”

The ministry said it did not restrict the participation of credible entities at COP meetings, as Malaysia adopts a whole-of-nation approach to tackling climate change.

“It is important that no sector in our country is excluded from participation in or responsibility for the fight against climate change, including the private sector,” it said.

It also said that only government delegates and negotiators were involved in direct climate negotiations, despite the presence of corporate representatives.

In response to RimbaWatch’s call for full transparency in the overflow badge selection process, the ministry said the badges were distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

It also said that only eight civil society organisations, including Suhakam, Sahabat Alam Malaysia and Youths United For Earth, had requested badges.

“The issues raised by RimbaWatch have been noted, and (the ministry) is committed to improving the delegation process for future COP meetings, including COP30 in Belem, Brazil,” it said.