Rationale for the Title: This title highlights the critical need to study the polar regions, especially Antarctica, in the context of accelerating global climate change. Antarctica underscores the importance of understanding how changes in the Antarctic region are interconnected with broader global impacts, such as shifts in weather, increased natural disasters, and ecosystem instability. In-depth research is essential not only to comprehend the changes but also to develop effective responses to the global effects of climate change. Ultimately, the title emphasizes the need for international cooperation in polar research and monitoring to understand climate change better and create policies that address its challenges more effectively.

Commemorating 25 Years of Malaysian Antarctic Research:  The National Antarctic Research Centre (NARC), Malaysia, has been at the forefront of Antarctic research for 25 years. This special collection marks the 25th anniversary of Malaysia’s involvement in Antarctic research.  It will serve as a milestone in the ongoing effort to understand the vital role of the polar regions in Earth’s climate system. With contributions from both Malaysian researchers and the international polar research community, this issue will provide valuable insights into the current state of polar science and its implications for global climate change. It will also serve as a call to action for continued collaboration, research, and policy development in the face of the climate crisis. It will focus on three key thematic areas: (1) Life Sciences, (2) Physical and Atmospheric Sciences, and (3) Policy and Governance.

• Life Sciences: The Antarctic region is one of the most unique and essential environments for studying climate change and its impacts. Antarctic ecosystems are home to a range of cold-adapted organisms, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. These organisms offer a wealth of information about survival and adaptation strategies in extreme conditions. As climate change progresses, Antarctic ecosystem is at risk of significant shifts, including species invasions and alterations to food webs. This special issue will explore the biology of Antarctic organisms and how they adapt to their extreme habitats. By understanding these adaptations, researchers can predict how global climate change may impact other ecosystems around the world. Furthermore, incorporating biological research into the study of polar regions fosters cross-disciplinary approaches that combine ecology, physiology, and climate science. This issue will examine how biological insights into Antarctic organisms can be used to model and understand broader ecological and climate impacts.

• Physical and Atmospheric Sciences: Changes in the Antarctic—especially the sea ice, ice sheet stability, and ocean circulation—have profound global implications. As climate change accelerates in the polar regions, updating our understanding of the dynamics of polar climate systems has never been more urgent. The role of polar ice in regulating ocean circulation, global temperatures, and sea levels makes it a cornerstone of global climate stability. This special issue will focus on the latest advancements in the physical and atmospheric sciences related to polar regions. It will cover topics such as sea-ice dynamics, ocean currents, atmospheric conditions, and the role of polar regions in the more extensive Earth system. This issue aims to deepen our collective understanding of the polar regions’ role in the Earth system and their relevance to global climate models.

• Policy and Governance: Key questions include: How have policies been adapted or implemented to reflect a growing urgency regarding climate change? How have outreach and education programs for schools and the public been carried out during the pandemic, and what lessons can be taken forward? The issue will also address strategies to avoid a "lost generation" in polar research, ensuring continued engagement and progress in polar science despite challenges.

In conclusion, this special collection will highlight how Antarctic research can contribute to a sustainable future. By synthesizing insights from life sciences, physical sciences, and policy discussions, this special collection will serve as a critical resource for guiding future research and international cooperation in addressing the global climate crisis.

Managing Guest Editors

• Siti Aisyah Alias (Universiti Malaya, Malaysia), Wan Mohd. Rauhan Wan Hussin  (Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Malaysia)

Guest Editors

• Life Sciences: Michael Clemente Wong (Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia), Jerzy Smykla (Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences)
• Physical and Atmospheric Sciences: Sheeba Chenoli (Universiti Malaya, Malaysia) , Thamban Maloth (National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research, India)
• Social Science & Policy: Goh Hong Ching (Universiti Malaya, Malaysia), Daniella Ligget (University of Canterbury, New Zealand)