HOSTED by the Ministry of Natural Resources , Environment , and Climate Change ( NRECC ) in partnership with the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation ( MGTC ), the 14th International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia ( IGEM 2023 ) assumes a pivotal leadership role in expediting and realising the region ’ s net zero and energy transition agenda . According to NRECC Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad , IGEM has consistently grown stronger year by year . He emphasised that IGEM was centred around innovation and green technology , primarily focusing on raising public awareness about the environment and environmental issues .
“ We want to grow the green economy and attract more businesses . First , they know the demands from entities like the European Union , banks , and the US regarding the Inflation Reduction Act ( IRA ), among others ,” said Nazmi .
“ Even locally , Bursa Malaysia and the Securities Commission are imposing various demands related to sustainability and ESG , among other aspects . So , they are aware of these requirements and the significant impact they will have on their bottom line , considering we are a trading nation .
“ However , many also realise that it goes beyond dollars and cents ; being green is about the planet ’ s future . So , there is some awareness of this , and it ’ s a significant aspect for both businesses and the public . It ’ s about creating awareness .”
IGEM HELPS IN AWARENESS CREATION
Nazmi said IGEM 2023 visitors were excited to learn more about technologies
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showcased at the event , especially the electric vehicles . The event also addressed exciting topics like solar energy and energy efficiency .
“ We know the government is pushing for energy efficiency and renewable energy . The tariffs are coming up . So , people are more interested in finding the solutions . By participating in this event , attendees can see , test , and receive feedback on the available solutions or how to secure financing for these initiatives . Whether you ’ re an individual household or a company , you can learn how to adopt these green practices .
“ One of the most important things is that IGEM provides a platform for us to collaborate with international partners . This year alone , countries like Austria , Sweden , and Korea are presenting their companies . They can collaborate with companies locally . It is beneficial and can build a competitive advantage for our players . We can also see the experience of other countries .”
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IGEM FORGES COLLABORATIONS
He noted that Malaysia was a heavily subsidised market , whether in terms of petrol or electricity tariffs . Previously ,
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many of these sectors faced challenges in development . The way to move forward was to learn from the examples of other countries . The local industry could identify the beneficial practices to adopt and the mistakes to avoid through this gathering at IGEM .
“ Among local companies themselves , there are many green technologies developed in Malaysia . These innovations are purely Malaysian . By attending IGEM , people will have the opportunity to learn about these technologies and discover ways to collaborate with them ,” Nazmi added .
Touching on the discussions at IGEM 2023 , Nazmi mentioned that the ministry would follow up on a few key takeaways from the event . For instance , topics related to the carbon market and the water forum were exciting , especially in light of Malaysia ’ s introduction of the Water Sector Transformation 2040 . He emphasised that achieving this transformation was a primary target , but there was still much work to be done to realise it . This represents a significant challenge for the government , and the aim is to push forward and build momentum for the changes they aim to implement . – @ Green
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Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad . |