Penang has made significant strides in sustainability through various initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting green building practices, and implementing sustainable waste management strategies.
State Housing and Environment Committee Chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu highlighted that these efforts are crucial in transforming Penang into a hub for green technology and innovation. They also attract green investments and foster a sustainable ecosystem.
He outlined that the state government’s strategic objectives are to drive environmental sustainability while stimulating economic growth and creating job opportunities.
“The Penang Green Agenda, led by the Penang Green Council (PGC), aims to make Penang the greenest state in Malaysia. This vision is supported by a green economy, innovative governance, and 4P partnerships (public, private, people, professional) focused on sustainability-led development.
“Notable achievements include our ‘No Free Plastic Bag’ policy, waste segregation at source policy, and initiatives in renewable energy and energy efficiency. These have set benchmarks in energy efficiency, waste management, and establishing Penang as a green manufacturing hub.
“These projects illustrate that sustainable practices can drive economic growth while benefiting the environment and local communities,” Sundarajoo said in his speech at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre, where he witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between PGC and the Malaysia Association of Sustainable Supply Chain and Innovation (MASSCI).
PGC was represented by its general manager Josephine Tan Mei Ling, while MASSCI was represented by its president Prof Lorela Chia.
Sundarajoo emphasized that Penang remains committed to advancing its sustainability goals through expanding renewable energy projects, improving green transportation systems, and promoting circular economy principles.
“Collaboration among government, industry, and the community is essential to achieving these goals. Partnerships like the MoU between PGC and MASSCI exemplify our shared commitment to innovation and sustainability,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prof Lorela Chia stated that the MoU’s objective is to promote sustainability, foster innovation, and address environmental stewardship in Penang.
“This MoU reflects our shared vision and the impactful work we aim to achieve together. I look forward to the positive changes we can make for the state and the country as a whole,” she said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Alissala Thian