January-February . 2025 | @ green • EVENT 05

( From left ): Mohamad Firdaus Sukri , Sarly Adre Sarkum , Azril Amir Jaafar and Muhammad Fuad Hilmi Yusof during the panel discussion .

A media networking session united industry experts and officials to preview NEA 2025

BY ADELINE ANTHONY ALPHONSO

The session on Jan 10 featured a forum titled “ Penerapan Amalan Tenaga Lestari ”, gathering industry experts .

Moderated by Ar Sarly Adre Sarkum ( Green Building Index ), the session featured panelists such as Dr Mohamad Firdaus Sukri ( Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka ), Ar Azril Amir Jaafar ( VERITAS Design Group ), and Dr Muhammad Fuad Hilmi Yusof ( Concord Group ).

Each brought a unique perspective to the table , focusing on passive design , data transparency , policy support , and continuous improvement in energy management .

SUSTAINABLE EXCELLENCE

They emphasised the importance of strong foundations in building design , real-time monitoring , and government incentives for encouraging renewable energy adoption .

During the discussion , the panellists highlighted how the NEA can help raise awareness about energy-efficient solutions . They also noted that Malaysia is aiming to align with net-zero carbon targets by 2050 , a goal that requires coordinated efforts from policymakers , private organisations , and the public .

According to them , accessible financing mechanisms and comprehensive data collection are essential for sustaining progress in these areas .

During the media networking session , NEA organisers also discussed the importance of establishing more precise guidelines for project submissions , including thorough documentation of energy savings , technological advancements , and cost-benefit analyses .

They emphasised that accurate data helps evaluators gauge a project ’ s actual impact . Meanwhile , several of the speakers pointed out that transparent metrics are crucial for attracting investors .

The forum also highlighted local research and development in clean energy . Experts called for stronger links between academic institutions and industry , stating that collaboration could speed up the creation of new solutions .

They noted that shared platforms can reduce duplicated efforts and increase efficiency .

Some of the participants were optimistic about upcoming government initiatives to boost renewable energy use , referencing existing tax incentives and rebates that make solar photovoltaic systems more accessible .

However , there were calls for additional support for small and medium enterprises , which may face capital constraints .

They also stated that partnerships between public agencies , private companies , and educational bodies can spur technological breakthroughs while reinforcing Malaysia ’ s net-zero carbon aspirations .

AWARDS OVERVIEW

The NEA 2025 Awards , organised by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources in collaboration with the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change

Sarly Adre Sarkum

Corporation ( MGTC ), continue to serve as a key platform for recognising best practices in energy management , energy-efficient building design , and renewable energy .

As in previous years , the awards will feature three primary categories and a range of special awards . Winners of each category will have the opportunity to represent Malaysia at the ASEAN Energy Awards ( AEA ), thereby showcasing the nation ’ s green innovations on a regional scale . For 2025 , the NEA categories are :

• Energy Management

• Energy Efficient Building

• Renewable Energy The organisers have also encouraged first-time participants to seek further guidance from past winners and industry experts to maximise their chances of success .

In addition to these main categories , special awards focus on Energy Performance Contracting , Sustainable Energy Financing , and higher learning institutions . These aim to acknowledge excellence across diverse sectors and encourage collaboration among various stakeholders .

FUTURE OUTLOOK

During the session , it was agreed that NEA 2025 had the potential to drive more cohesive strategies for clean energy .

Attendees were also reminded that consistent monitoring and evaluation would help maintain momentum . A few speakers suggested ongoing engagement sessions , where participants share lessons learned and refine methods for maximising energy efficiency .

The session ended with an invitation for all sectors to join the NEA ’ s mission , emphasising that sustainable energy practices are not limited to large corporations but can be adopted at every level . – @ green