GREEN economy is pivotal for Penang to increase its resilience against any risks caused by future uncertainties, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said.
In his keynote address during the Renewable Energy Workshop: ‘Journey to Net Zero Carbon Emission’ in Ascott Gurney today, Chow said these uncertainties are natural disasters and economic disruption.
The workshop was an initiative by Penang Development Corporation (PDC) and Tadau Energy Ventures.
Chow said there are several pathways towards a green economy, which often comes from renewable energy and energy efficiency.
“Adoption of sustainable renewable energy is the right path to realising the state’s ideals through advancement in economic and environmental objectives.
“Renewable energy has always been a key component in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and race towards zero-emission.
“We are keen to capitalise on the abundant sunlight, rooftops, and shoreline to enhance the use of renewable energy.
“Therefore, it is a great pleasure for me to officiate today’s workshop to impel the state further in the ‘Journey to Net Zero Carbon Emission’.
“It is a terrific initiative by PDC and Tadau Energy Ventures to elevate Penang to greater heights,” Chow said.
Chow also called all regulators to work together to determine the country’s carbon-zero future.
“Consideration must be given to the roadmap’s social, financial, and technological impact, in order for the corporate players to fully capitalise on the opportunities available,” he said.
PDC chief executive officer Aziz Bakar thanked Chow for the latter’s presence.
“It is an important milestone for the continuation of PDC’s efforts to stimulate growth in becoming a green state by partnering with Tadau Energy.
“We believe that sustainable development is a vital component in forging forward.
“This workshop is the start of the journey to a more sustainable future.
“It is essential for us to move in tandem with the world while leveraging on government regulations and transitioning at an appropriate pace,” he said.
Among those present were state Trade, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Committee chairman Datuk Abdul Halim Hussain, Energy, Economic Planning Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department deputy director Moktar Idham Musa, Tadau Energy Ventures chief executive officer Susanna Lim, and Deloitte executive director Ng Lan Kheng.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Chan Kok Kuan