Author
Dr Karisma Karisma
Organisation/Institution
Asia School of Business
Country
MALAYSIA
Panel
Legal Pluralism
Title
Indigenous Voices and Wisdom in Climate Policymaking: Towards Co-Governance and Legal Pluralism
Abstract
Indigenous wisdom embodies intergenerational ecological knowledge, woven from centuries of lived experience and deep relational understanding of land, water, and more-than-human kin. It integrates adaptive practices rooted in reciprocity, spiritual connection, and holistic stewardship, offering resilient pathways for biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation that transcend conventional scientific approaches. Yet their voices remain marginalised within national and global climate governance structures, often confined to consultation roles without genuine influence over climate policymaking. This paper critically examines the barriers that impede indigenous participation in climate policy development, highlighting the disjuncture between recognition justice in principle and implementation in practice. Drawing on comparative insights from Malaysia and Indonesia, it explores normative frameworks such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the emerging legal recognition of indigenous sovereignty over land and sea Country. The paper argues for transformative and eclectic approaches. One that moves from tokenistic engagement toward structural inclusion through co-governance, indigenous-led environmental monitoring, and legal pluralism in climate regulation and constitutional reform, centring decolonial praxis that dismantles colonial policy legacies. By internalising and institutionalising indigenous epistemologies and practices, the research advances the case for climate justice that is not only ecologically sound but also socially and culturally equitable, ensuring that the pathways toward a sustainable future.
Biography
Karisma is an early-career researcher specialising in decentralised energy systems and climate change. Her background includes serving as an Assistant Professor at Tunku Abdul Rahman University, Malaysia, and contributing to interdisciplinary projects at the intersection of law, technology, and sustainability. Her research focuses on the nexus between decentralisation and decarbonisation, seeking to bridge emerging technologies with sustainable energy policy frameworks. In particular, her work explores the application of blockchain technology within the renewable energy sector, addressing its legal and regulatory implications. Her commitment to academic excellence is reflected in a portfolio of high-quality research publications and presentations delivered at prestigious international conferences. Notably, she has been engaged with the Asia School of Business in crafting a comprehensive roadmap on climate change mitigation and adaptation in Malaysia.
