“SAILING TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY” ESG INITIATIVE COMMENCEMENT & RENEWABLE ENERGY HANDOVER CEREMONY
SPEECH BY YAB TUAN CHOW KON YEOW
THE CHIEF MINISTER OF PENANG
“SAILING TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY”
ESG INITIATIVE COMMENCEMENT & RENEWABLE ENERGY HANDOVER CEREMONY
13TH JUNE 2024
Yang Berhormat Tuan Haji Akmal Nasrullah
Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation
Yang Berbahagia Dato’ Seri Khor Teng Tong
Founder of Hunza Properties Bhd
Yang Berbahagia Dato’ Ray Tan Boon Teck
Chief Executive Officer of Ray Go Solar Holdings Berhad
Yang Berbahagia Dato’ Dr. Hj. Saduruddin Gulam Husen
Managing Director of Iman Ikhlas (M) Sdn Bhd - Mydin Northern Region
Yang Berusaha Encik Azmin Bin Saduruddin
Executive Director of Iman Ikhlas (M) Sdn Bhd - Mydin Northern Region
Representatives from Government Agencies and Non-Governmental Organization,
Distinguished Guests,
Members of the Media,
Customers and Tenants of Mydin Mall Bertam,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good morning.
Today marks momentous occasion as we embark on a journey towards a more sustainable and greener Penang. This event, “Sailing Towards Sustainability,” is a testament to our collective commitment to fostering a future where economic growth and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organizers, Ray Go Solar Holdings Bhd and Iman Ikhlas (M) Sdn Bhd, for their visionary leadership and dedication to this noble cause. Their unwavering commitment to renewable energy is a reflection of our shared resolve to ensure that Penang’s progress is sustainable and responsible.
As we stand here today, it is important to recognize the global context of our efforts. Our planet faces unprecedented environmental challenges, from climate change to resource depletion. In response, nations and industries worldwide are embracing sustainable practices, recognizing the vital link between the health of our planet and the well-being of our societies and economies.
Penang has long been a pioneer in this movement. We understand that our social and economic progress cannot come at the expense of environmental stewardship. This understanding is embodied in our Penang2030 vision launched in 2018 and the Penang Green Agenda 2030 launched in 2021, which provide us with a roadmap for building a future that is both prosperous and environmentally sustainable.
Under the Penang Green Agenda 2030, we have made significant strides, including the establishment of the Penang Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Taskforce (PREET). This taskforce is pivotal in promoting renewable energy and energy-efficient practices in our state. Our goal is clear: to substantially increase the adoption of renewable energy and energy-efficient projects by 2030.
This will involve introducing an effective and implementable framework, including regulations, incentive and assistance packages, and industry policies. Our aim includes advancing the readiness of local manufacturing industries for the digital age and the green economy, modernizing and diversifying sustainable agriculture, and fostering the adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices across all sectors in the state.
However, realizing these goals demands the collective efforts of all stakeholders. Therefore, I am particularly delighted that the project we celebrate today epitomizes the power of collaboration and innovation. The partnership between Ray Go Solar and Mydin exemplifies the transformative potential of the Public-Private-People Partnership in effecting positive change. Through partnerships like this and the deployment of cutting-edge solar technology, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also creating new economic opportunities and jobs for our community.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
On a wider scale, Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) outlines a course towards a greener, more sustainable future. With solar energy poised to play a pivotal role, Malaysia aims to achieve 70 percent renewable energy installed capacity in the power mix by 2050. Penang is proud to be at the forefront of this transition, with initiatives like today's launch serving as catalysts for change.
As we celebrate this milestone, let us recognize these initiatives as beacons of hope and progress in our journey towards sustainability. From the Penang International Airport's solar rooftop installation to the proposed floating solar farm at parts of the Mengkuang Dam by the Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP), which is subjected to approval from regulating agencies like the Environment Department, exemplify our unwavering commitment to embracing renewable energy across diverse sectors, from transportation to water supply. They serve as tangible reminders of our dedication to sustainable development and inspire us all as Penangites to push further not only our state but also our nation towards a greener future.
Looking ahead, we must acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. Transitioning to a sustainable future is not a simple task; it requires bold leadership, innovative solutions, and sustained collaboration. However, with the dedication and collective efforts of everyone involved, I am confident that we can navigate these challenges and pave the way for Penang's transformation into ‘A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation’.
With that said, it is with great honour that I hereby officially launch the "Sailing Towards Sustainability ESG Initiative Commencement & Renewable Energy Handover Ceremony." My deepest appreciation extends to all who have contributed to this remarkable endeavour and to the broader cause of sustainability in Penang. Together, let us continue to chart our course towards a brighter and greener future, steering with determination, courage, and a shared vision.
Thank you.