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ESG

ESG, News

SIRIM Appointed Sole Approval Body for Plastic Waste Imports from July 1

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SIRIM Berhad has been officially designated as the sole inspection authority and issuer of the Certificate of Approval (COA) for the importation of waste plastic into Malaysia, effective 1 July 2025. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), the move is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance environmental governance in line with the MADANI Economy framework, which prioritises green growth and climate resilience. The ministry stated that COAs for waste plastic imports will only be granted if all regulatory conditions under Malaysian law are fulfilled, and provided that the exporting countries are parties to the Basel Convention, an international treaty controlling transboundary movements of hazardous waste and its disposal. “Malaysia will not hesitate to take firm action against individuals or companies that attempt to circumvent import regulations or are involved in illegal waste trafficking,” the ministry emphasised. MITI reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a legitimate, responsible and environmentally sound trade ecosystem that supports the nation’s sustainable socio-economic objectives. The ministry also stressed that Malaysia’s policies remain aligned with international standards and multilateral commitments to environmental protection. Importers seeking to bring in waste plastic are advised to consult the official guidelines published by SIRIM, which outline the procedures and inspection requirements. The documentation is accessible at: https://www.sirim-qas.com.my/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/faq-importationof-waste-plastic-1.pdf. SIRIM, a statutory body under MITI, is Malaysia’s leading industrial research and technology organisation and a national authority on quality assurance. -Bernama

ESG

KOLTIVA Appoints Joe Keen Poon as Executive Chairman

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In a major move underscoring its growing global presence in sustainable agriculture and supply chain traceability, the Indonesia-Swiss-based, venture-backed AgriTech firm KOLTIVA has named Joe Keen Poon as its new Executive Chairman. Announced earlier today, the appointment marks a strategic milestone in KOLTIVA’s continued international leadership trajectory. This pivotal leadership marks a defining moment in KOLTIVA’s journey as the company accelerates its mission to build inclusive, deforestation-free, and fully traceable supply chains aligning with emerging global regulations such as the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), CSDDD, CSRD, and other rising demands for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance. The appointment of Joe Keen Poon as Executive Chairman reinforces KOLTIVA’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, transparency, and innovation in agriculture. A seasoned global executive, Joe brings over 30 years of experience scaling purpose-driven technology and sustainability ventures. His leadership credentials span top-tier organizations, including Microsoft, Deloitte, Surbana Jurong, and, most recently, as Group CEO of the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM). The Executive Chairman will play a central role in strengthening governance, unlocking investment pathways, and ensuring that KOLTIVA’s solutions remain scalable, secure, and rooted in impact. His appointment signals KOLTIVA’s next chapter: leveraging advanced analytics to deliver not just transparency — but foresight and resilience — in agricultural supply chains. Founded in 2013, KOLTIVA has rapidly evolved into one of the most trusted technology partners in agriculture, working with over 1,9 million producers across 65 countries. Its integrated ecosystem—ranging from traceability platforms, capacity building as an extension services with in person field-training through its extensive agronomist network and digital payment tools to smallholder training programs—has become vital to agri businesses, enterprises and suppliers navigating today’s complex sustainability challenges. As Executive Chairman, Joe will help KOLTIVA sharpen its long-term vision, deepen its impact across supply chains, and shape future partnerships that align with its triple-bottom-line: People, Planet, and Profit. “KOLTIVA is uniquely positioned at the intersection of agriculture, climate action, financial inclusion and digital transformation,” said Joe Keen Poon. “Joining this team is not only a professional honor—it’s an impact-commitment to reshaping how the world sources its food and raw materials, while supporting the rural smallholders who grow them.” Joe Keen Poon will collaborate closely with the CEO and Co-Founder, Manfred Borer and the broader leadership team to strengthen KOLTIVA’s presence across key regions—including Indonesia, Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Europe and the Middle East, and Africa—strategic markets essential to the future of sustainable sourcing. “We’ve built a strong foundation rooted in data integrity, human-centered technology intelligence, field operations, and client trust,” said Manfred Borer, CEO of KOLTIVA. “Now, we’re scaling. With Joe Keen Poon on board, we gain a partner with the global foresight and experience to guide us through this next chapter—one that will see us expand across continents while remaining deeply connected to rural farming communities.” While the appointment brings fresh global perspectives, it also underscores continuity in KOLTIVA’s mission and values. The company remains deeply focused on enabling ethical sourcing, smallholders inclusion, and climate resilience through technology and on-the-ground presence. KOLTIVA’s approach remains unique in its integration of field expertise and digital traceability—a model that has won recognition from global enterprises, government institutions, public-private partnership, non-government organization to climate-impact driven investors. “As regulatory landscapes shift, particularly with the introduction of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), companies across the globe are under pressure to verify the legality and sustainability of their raw material sources. KOLTIVA has been at the forefront of this movement, enabling full end-to-end traceability and polygon-based geospatial verification for commodities including palm oil, rubber, cocoa, and coffee.” Joe Keen Poon. “What drew me to this role was not just the technology, but the company’s relentless focus on empowering producers and building trust between stakeholders. That’s where true sustainability begins.”

Energy & Technology, ESG

DNex and PowerChina’s Subsidiary Ink Landmark Agreement to Advance Renewable Energy in Malaysia

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Dagang NeXchange Berhad (“DNeX”) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) agreement with Sinohydro Corporation (M) Sdn  Bhd (“Sinohydro Malaysia”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sinohydro Corporation Ltd (“SINOHYDRO”), which in turn is a wholly-owned subsidiary of a major Chinese state-owned company, Power Construction Corporation of China, Ltd (“POWERCHINA”), to explore and develop key initiatives across Malaysia’s growing renewable energy sector. Sinohydro Malaysia serves as POWERCHINA‘s wholly-owned subsidiary in Malaysia, actively undertaking major construction and engineering projects across the country since 1998. Among its notable projects, SINOHYDRO participated in the construction of Bakun Hydroelectric Plant (HEP) in Sarawak, with an installed capacity of 2400MW which is the largest hydroelectric power station in Malaysia and in Southeast Asia. SINOHYDRO also participated in the construction of several major power plants in Malaysia, including Connaught Bridge Power Station, Tanjung Kidurong Combined Cycle Gas Turbine Power Plant, Hulu Terengganu Hydroelectric Project, Murum Hydroelectric Plant, Large Scale Solar 3 (LSS3) Coara Marang Solar Power Project and Telekosang Small Hydro Power Plants.  Sinohydro Malaysia is currently carrying out the construction of the Baleh Hydroelectric Project, the largest on-going hydroelectric power plant project in Malaysia, as well as the Miri Combine Circle Gas Turbine Power Plant in Miri, Sarawak. This strategic partnership underscores both parties’ commitment to drive innovation, fostering technological advancement, and contributing to Malaysia’s clean energy transition and economic growth while upskilling local Malaysians with the transfer of technologies and best global practice. The MoU outlines several key areas of cooperation designed to support the Government’s vision of accelerating Malaysia’s clean energy agenda in line with the National Energy Transition Roadmap: Renewable Energy Project Development: The parties will jointly identify, evaluate, and develop viable renewable energy projects throughout Malaysia. These include, but are not limited to, initiatives in solar, geothermal, hydroelectric, and other clean energy technologies, leveraging the unique strengths and expertise of both companies to harness Malaysia’s natural resources for clean power generation. Technology Transfer and Best Practices: A core objective of the collaboration is to facilitate the transfer of advanced technologies and best practices. This will encompass critical fields such as cutting-edge solar solutions, geothermal energy, hydropower systems, and small modular reactor (“SMR”) technologies, thereby accelerating Malaysia’s adoption of state-of-the-art clean energy solutions. Sustainable Rare Earth Exploration: The MoU also paves the way for exploring opportunities in sustainable rare earth mining projects, specifically those related to usage in renewable energy. This initiative aims to secure a reliable and environmentally responsible source of these critical materials, which are essential for the production, construction and operation of renewable technologies. This aligns with the increasing global demand for not only clean electricity, but also for clean sources of electricity. Innovation and Enhancement: Both parties are committed to jointly pursuing the development of enhancements and innovations stemming from the transfer of technology in renewable energy, supporting DNeX’s stated commitment Malaysia’s Net Zero emissions target by 2050, and its ambition to capitalise on global Energy Transition opportunities. Local Talent Development: Recognising the paramount importance of a skilled workforce for sustainable growth, the MoU includes provisions to upskill and develop local talent within both the renewable energy sector and the rare earth mining, extraction, and production industries. “This partnership marks a pivotal moment for DNeX ‘s journey towards a sustainable future,” said Faizal Sham Abu Mansor, Group Chief Executive Officer of DNeX, adding that, “Our collaboration with SINOHYDRO will not only unlock new renewable energy potential across the nation but also enable us to embrace advanced technologies like SMR. This opportunity will greatly complement our on-going sustainability plans in the Energy sector as we intend to move our oil and gas portfolio closer to bridge fuel like natural gas in lieu of oil and in our IT sector which is focusing more and more on provision of sovereign cloud and AI services. This requires large amount of energy, and partnering with SINOHYDRO enables us to moonshot ourselves in the field of SMR and ensure our products and service offerings are not only reliable but a carbon-free power source. Furthermore, our joint commitment to clean rare earth extraction aligns perfectly with our vision for responsible resource management and industrial growth. We are particularly excited about the prospect of developing local expertise and creating high-value jobs in these critical sectors.” “As we accelerate our shift towards a greener future, this partnership represents a milestone in our renewable energy transition and expansion from our traditional oil and gas business reinforcing our dedication to environmental stewardship,” he added.

ESG, News

SIROM, HEINEKEN Malaysia & Sokong Unite to Enhance Community Resilience

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In conjunction with United Nations (UN) Environment Day, Soroptimist International Region of Malaysia (SIROM), Heineken Malaysia Berhad (HEINEKEN Malaysia), and Sokong by Yayasan Malaysiakini, proudly presented Sustainability Day 2025—a community-powered initiative aimed at promoting eco-friendly practices and building more sustainable food systems. Held at GCC Farm in Bentong on 14 June 2025, the event highlighted two practical and impactful approaches to sustainability: aquaponics farming and organic composting. These methods provide scalable solutions that empower communities to actively contribute to food security, environmental preservation, and climate resilience. Participants engaged in hands-on workshops, educational demonstrations, and community dialogues, making it a meaningful day of learning, collaboration, and action. This effort reflects the spirit of the 2025 UN Environment Day theme: “Our Land. Our Future. We Are #GenerationRestoration.” “Sustainability Day is about more than awareness—it’s about action,” said Rebecca Lai, President of SIROM. “Aquaponics and composting provide scalable, low-carbon impact solutions to food waste, water conservation, and urban farming challenges. These practices demonstrate how communities can take charge of their own sustainability.” Aquaponics, a method that integrates aquaculture and hydroponics, uses up to 90% less water than conventional farming and supports chemical-free, year-round food production. Meanwhile, organic composting transforms kitchen and garden waste into nutrient-rich soil, reducing landfill use while enhancing soil health and biodiversity. These practices directly support Malaysia’s sustainability agenda and align with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—notably Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Climate Action (SDG 13). “At HEINEKEN Malaysia, we believe true progress begins at the grassroots. Our partnership with Soroptimist International began in 2017 and has been a testament to the power of community-driven change, where food security, sustainability, and women’s empowerment come together to build resilient futures. Together, we’re not just growing crops, we’re cultivating opportunity and long-term impact,” said Renuka Indrarajah, Corporate Affairs & Legal Director of HEINEKEN Malaysia. The event embodies a shared dedication to inclusive, community-led climate action. As part of its Brew a Better World sustainability strategy, HEINEKEN Malaysia continues to invest in environmental sustainability and community empowerment. Puteri Afiqah Mazelan, Community & Marketing Manager of Sokong by Yayasan Malaysiakini, added: “At Sokong, we’re proud to connect changemakers and grassroots organisations who are doing the real work on the ground. Sustainability Day is a great example of how collective action—supported by strong partnerships—can spark long-term change.” As a digital fundraising and impact platform, Sokong is committed to amplifying causes that matter—whether through community engagement, public awareness, or funding for environmental and social initiatives. SIROM, a national body under Soroptimist International South East Asia Pacific, continues to lead efforts in empowering women and uplifting communities through sustainable development and environmental education. Sustainability Day 2025 is more than just a celebration of green practices—it is a reminder of what’s possible when communities, corporations, and civil society come together. Hand in hand, HEINEKEN Malaysia, Sokong, and SIROM are planting the seeds of lasting change—one household, one garden, one community at a time.

ESG, News

CIMB Commits RM200 Million to Enhance Financial and Digital Literacy Across Malaysia

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CIMB Group Holdings Bhd has announced a RM200 million commitment over five years (2026–2030) under its “Kita Bagi Jadi Komuniti” (KBJK) platform, reinforcing its ambition to empower communities and drive inclusive growth across Malaysia. The initiative underscores the bank’s long-term strategy to promote economic empowerment, strengthen community wellbeing, and enhance financial inclusion through skills development, particularly in digital and financial literacy. The pledge was unveiled by CIMB Group Chief Executive Officer Novan Amirudin in Kuala Lumpur. He emphasised the socio-economic urgency of closing income inequality gaps, stating that nations with greater disparity often experience less sustainable development. “In contrast, a thriving, inclusive society that leaves no one behind benefits all its members. At CIMB, our purpose to advance customers and society is simple but powerful,” he said. As part of the KBJK platform, CIMB introduced several targeted programmes aimed at key segments of society. Among them is the Women Entrepreneur Empowerment Programme, designed to provide customised financing and networking support for women-led enterprises. The initiative aims to assist 300 women entrepreneurs over a three-year period. In collaboration with the Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency (AKPK), CIMB is also delivering ‘Jaga Duit’ workshops – a financial literacy programme tailored for low-income employees within its corporate and SME client base. Nearly 1,500 individuals have already participated in these sessions. Additionally, through the ‘Let’s Duit’ initiative led by TNG Digital, around 1,000 senior citizens nationwide have received practical, hands-on training in digital payment tools, helping them navigate the digital economy with greater confidence and safety. CIMB continues to build on a strong foundation of social investment. Between 2021 and 2024, the group has disbursed over RM125 million in community-focused initiatives, keeping it firmly on track to meet its RM150 million target by end-2025. During the same period, the bank has channelled more than RM50 billion in financing to support low-income customers and SMEs, reaffirming its role as a responsible financial intermediary driving inclusive economic impact. Through TNG Digital, CIMB has also facilitated nearly RM1 billion in salary disbursements to over 40,000 migrant workers while expanding financial access for refugees and gig economy participants. -Bernama

Energy & Technology, ESG

MIGHT Launches National Innovation Centres to Advance Rail and Smart City Technologies

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The Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT), an agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), has launched two strategic innovation centres aimed at accelerating the development of local technologies within Malaysia’s rail and smart city sectors. The launch of the Industrial Technology Innovation Centre (ITIC) and the Smart City Experience & Next Generation Innovation Centre (SCENIC) was held in conjunction with MIGHT’s 30th Annual General Meeting, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s ongoing commitment to advancing national innovation capabilities. According to a statement from MIGHT, the ITIC programme has been established in collaboration with the Malaysia Rail Industry Corporation (MARIC) and the Malaysia Smart Cities Alliance Association (MSCA), with the objective of catalysing the adoption and deployment of locally-developed solutions in high-technology sectors. “The programme seeks to drive the deployment of home-grown technological solutions across the rail and smart city sectors, enhancing Malaysia’s position in high-tech innovation,” MIGHT stated. As part of the initiative, MARIC has partnered with Tech Store Malaysia to develop a Smart Rail Monitoring System. The system leverages real-time data and predictive analytics to improve maintenance and operational efficiency across the rail network. Real-time monitoring of train location, speed, axle counting, and overload detection is a core feature of the system, supporting predictive and preventive maintenance to reduce downtime and enhance safety. In tandem with the launch, MIGHT has also released the Malaysia Rail Industry Report, developed with input from key stakeholders across the sector. The report highlights a range of emerging technologies, including additive manufacturing, remote monitoring, smart stations, and environmentally sustainable solutions. “Featured technologies include additive manufacturing, rail flaw detection systems, energy-efficient and green technologies, advanced training tools, data-driven decision-making, smart maintenance systems, train automation, and next-generation smart station infrastructure,” MIGHT added. SCENIC, constructed using composite materials through the Industrialised Building System (IBS), is designed to serve as a collaborative hub for the demonstration and integration of local smart city technologies. MIGHT noted that SCENIC also functions as a bridge between innovation and policy, facilitating the real-world deployment of future technologies in line with national urban development objectives. In support of this ecosystem, MIGHT has introduced a Smart City Directory to catalogue technologies, products, and services along the smart city value chain. The directory aims to enable more informed, data-driven decision-making among municipalities and industry stakeholders. “These initiatives reflect MIGHT’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s innovation landscape through the cultivation of local technological capabilities,” it said. The programmes are aligned with the 10-10 Malaysian Science, Technology, Innovation and Economy (MySTIE) Framework and the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (DSTIN) 2021–2030. MIGHT confirmed that the ITIC initiative will continue to expand across multiple platforms to drive forward strategic technologies and socioeconomic enablers, reinforcing Malaysia’s position at the forefront of global innovation in transport and urban development. -Bernama

ESG, News

GS Caltex Launches Feasibility Study for Landmark Biofuel Project in Indonesia

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GS Caltex, a leading South Korean oil refiner, has initiated a feasibility study for a pioneering biofuel project in Indonesia, marking a strategic step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing sustainable energy solutions. The initiative, announced on Tuesday, is part of a government-supported international greenhouse gas reduction programme. GS Caltex has been selected to explore the development of an evaporative concentration facility designed to extract oil from palm oil mill effluent (POME), a liquid byproduct generated during palm oil production. The company will undertake a six-month evaluation to assess the technical and environmental viability of the project. Upon completion of the study, GS Caltex will determine the scope and timing of its potential investment. Should the project proceed, it would be the first of its kind in Indonesia to utilise evaporative concentration technology to process palm oil waste. According to a company representative, this method is considered a more straightforward and potentially more effective alternative to conventional methane capture techniques. By preventing the natural decomposition of POME, the process could deliver significant reductions in methane emissions. “Evaporative concentration of palm oil mill effluent is considered simpler than existing methane capture methods and can reduce emissions more effectively by preventing decomposition,” a GS Caltex official stated. “Following the feasibility study, we will consider moving forward with the project at palm oil farms in Indonesia.” GS Caltex also highlighted the growing relevance of biofuels, particularly for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which is increasingly in demand. Regulatory bodies in South Korea, the European Union, and the United States are moving toward mandatory blending of bio-based fuels in aviation operations. In environmental terms, each facility developed under this initiative could potentially offset emissions equivalent to those absorbed annually by approximately 14 million 30-year-old pine trees. This is primarily due to the replacement of traditional practices, where POME is left to decompose in open ponds, releasing substantial volumes of methane — a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential nearly 28 times greater than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. The project signals GS Caltex’s continued commitment to sustainable innovation and low-carbon technologies, with the potential to contribute meaningfully to global emission reduction efforts. -ANN

ESG, News

Dong Yang and BLT Forge Strategic Alliance to Propel ASEAN Smart Elevator Growth

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Dong Yang Elevator (M) Sdn Bhd has entered into a strategic partnership with Brilliant Elevator Co. Ltd (BLT), the flagship brand of China’s Shenyang Yuanda Intelligent Industrial Group, marking a significant step in the advancement of smart elevator solutions and regional growth in Malaysia. This collaboration is a core component of Yuanda Group’s global expansion blueprint, which includes the establishment of a Southeast Asian regional logistics and smart service centre in Malaysia. The facility will consolidate functions such as warehouse logistics, spare parts distribution, intelligent maintenance, remote monitoring and customer service, improving response times and enhancing coordination across the region. BLT officially launched its brand and product portfolio in Malaysia during an event held on Tuesday in Shah Alam. The launch, which BLT described as a strategic milestone in its ASEAN market expansion, drew over 200 attendees, including government officials and professionals from the construction, development, engineering and maintenance sectors. Yeow Ewe Hor, Chief Executive Officer of Dong Yang Elevator, underscored the collaboration’s significance for the future of Malaysia’s urban infrastructure and construction ecosystem. He stated that the partnership will play a pivotal role in the country’s transformation into smart and sustainable cities. “As the driving force behind Malaysia’s urban progress, we aim to turn blueprints into communities and dreams into national landmarks,” Yeow said. “The vertical transportation industry is at a turning point, moving toward safer, greener and smarter systems. To thrive, we must address three central challenges: safety, sustainability and innovation.” Yeow added that Dong Yang has worked closely with BLT since 2008, selling more than 400 elevators and maintaining over 1,300 units across Malaysia. The company has actively adopted global standards, green technologies and intelligent maintenance systems to ensure high service quality and operational efficiency. He reaffirmed Dong Yang’s commitment to ongoing cooperation with government bodies such as the Public Works Department and the Department of Occupational Safety and Health to shape the intelligent vertical mobility landscape in the country. Founded in 2002, Dong Yang has established itself as a leading Malaysian supplier of elevators, escalators and home lifts. Liu Ruisheng, General Manager of International Sales at BLT, highlighted the company’s deep-rooted presence in Malaysia, which spans 18 years, and outlined its next phase of strategic development. “We plan to establish a regional logistics hub in Malaysia to leverage its geographic and industrial strengths. This will support our broader ambition to enhance global brand development and better serve Southeast Asia,” he said. BLT’s export business has demonstrated strong growth in recent years, with exports surpassing RMB580 million in 2024. The company now serves over 140 countries and regions, securing its position among China’s top elevator exporters. In a further display of its global ambitions, Yuanda Group has successfully launched a joint venture factory in Saudi Arabia, which has become a benchmark in high-end smart manufacturing. The group is set to begin operations at a new assembly plant in the United States this year, advancing its goal of building a comprehensive global platform for smart, digital and green vertical transportation systems. Saudi Arabia and Malaysia are central to this global strategy, serving as dual operational engines. Looking ahead, the group intends to roll out local assembly initiatives and talent development programmes in Malaysia, transitioning from a traditional equipment supplier model to a full-scale smart building solutions provider. The globalisation drive is already underway, with BLT’s Global Brand Tour reaching key markets such as Vietnam, Saudi Arabia and Mexico. Liu emphasised that international expansion extends beyond exporting products, encompassing brand systems, technological innovation and management expertise. “Malaysia will serve as our bridgehead into ASEAN. Our collaboration with Dong Yang will elevate us from being well-rooted to regionally leading,” he said. -The Star

ESG

AEON Launches Reforestation Project In Segamat

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KUALA LUMPUR : Building on the success of the Malaysia-Japan Friendship Forest Programme in Bidor, Perak, AEON is proud to launch a new three-year reforestation initiative in Segamat, Johor. The project is part of the ongoing legacy of the Malaysia-Japan Friendship Forest Programme, in collaboration with the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM). It marks the next chapter in AEON’s long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and community development. The event also signified the official completion of the Malaysia-Japan Friendship Forest Programme in Bidor, which took place from 2014 to 2023. In this 3-phase project, AEON successfully planted 30,000 trees of rainforest species on a 22.75-hectare site that was once a tin mining area. The initiative also contributed to the 100 million tree planting campaign by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability. The Segamat Reforestation Project was officially announced during a ceremony held at FRIM in Kuala Lumpur last Friday. During the event, Naoya Okada, Managing Director of AEON CO. (M) BHD and Dato’ Dr. Ismail Parlan, Director General of FRIM exchanged a Letter of Intent (LOI), symbolising the joint commitment to the initiative. The exchange was witnessed by Dr. Norwati Muhammad, Deputy Director General (Research) of FRIM, and Tsugutoshi Seko, Deputy Managing Director of AEON. As a symbolic gesture to mark the Segamat initiative, a tree planting session was also held at Padang 44, FRIM Kepong. Among the species planted were meranti temak nipis (Anthoshorea roxburghii), meranti tembaga (Rubroshorea leprosula), and sesenduk (Endospermum diadenum). The initiative in Segamat will see 30,000 trees planted over 36 hectares of land in three phases, with 10,000 trees planted per phase. The project, which will run from 2025 to 2027, aims to replicate the environmental success of Bidor, which transformed a former tin mining site into a vibrant ecosystem. Naoya Okada expressed his appreciation for the continued partnership, saying, “The Bidor project is a testament to what can be achieved when corporate responsibility is combined with scientific expertise. We are proud to carry this legacy forward in Segamat. AEON has long prioritised caring for the environment as a core part of our sustainability strategy. Since we started the tree planting initiatives in 1991, we have planted over 557,000 trees nationwide through a range of green initiatives.” Meanwhile, Dr. Ismail said that FRIM appreciates AEON’s continuous commitment towards environmental sustainability. “This planting site in Bidor will be maintained as a research and educational plot, as well as a future seed production area. The reforestation efforts on this former mining land have also successfully attracted various species of fauna, including migratory birds, to the area. FRIM welcomes collaboration with AEON in conserving and protecting the environment. We are also open and ready to explore other areas of collaboration in the future,” he said. This ongoing initiative reflects AEON’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), supporting environmental restoration, community engagement and sustainable growth for future generations.

ESG

Maybank Backs CP Group’s Altervim with Landmark Green Loan in Malaysia

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KUALA LUMPUR : Maybank has extended its first green loan in Malaysia to Altervim, the renewable energy arm of Thailand’s Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group, marking a significant step in the bank’s regional sustainable finance strategy. Serving as the sole bilateral lender, Maybank is financing Altervim’s rooftop solar initiative as the company enters the Malaysian market. This collaboration underscores Maybank’s commitment to supporting the energy transition and advancing the sustainability agenda throughout ASEAN. In its initial rollout, the project will see solar photovoltaic systems installed across 28 Lotus’s Malaysia retail outlets, with a targeted installed capacity of up to 20 megawatts (MW). The initiative is projected to generate approximately 24.65 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of renewable energy annually and reduce an estimated 433,958 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions over the course of its operational life. Datuk John Chong, Group Chief Executive Officer of Global Banking at Maybank, reaffirmed the bank’s longstanding relationship with CP Group and its aligned vision for a low-carbon economy. “We are proud to support Altervim’s market entry into Malaysia while also contributing to the national energy transition agenda to enhance the renewable energy mix,” he said. “The financing facility, structured under Maybank’s Sustainable Product Framework, represents a strategic addition to our growing sustainable finance portfolio.” As of the first quarter of 2025, Maybank has mobilised RM125.46 billion in sustainable finance across the region, exceeding its original RM80 billion target set for the full year of 2025. Borvorn Pienpongpanich, Chief Financial Officer of Altervim, described the green loan as a strategic milestone in the company’s regional expansion. “This partnership with Maybank strengthens our ability to scale clean energy deployment in Malaysia, one of our key growth markets,” he said. “It enables us to deliver measurable carbon reductions and support businesses in managing energy costs sustainably. We value Maybank’s support and are committed to building a resilient and sustainable future together.” The project is emblematic of both organisations’ shared commitment to accelerating decarbonisation and fostering sustainable development throughout Southeast Asia. -NST

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