@ green | September-October . 2024

IGEM 2024 paves the way for a greener , brighter future

BY ZAFIRAH ZAFRUDDIN

Over the past few years , the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation ( MGTC ) has launched various programmes centred around three key areas : Green growth , climate action , and CEPA ( Communication , education , and public awareness ).

“ These three elements would define Malaysia ’ s purpose towards becoming a net zero nation by 2050 ,” noted MGTC Group Chief Executive Officer ( GCEO ) Ir Ts Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor .

IGEM is a manifestation of MGTC ’ s focus on these three areas , and its 15th edition is on Oct 9-11 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre ( KLCC ).

As Malaysia ’ s premier green technology event , IGEM showcases innovations in green technology and facilitates business matchmaking . In addition to this , the event features talks , capacity-building programmes , and training initiatives .

Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor

Launch of the Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap ( HETR ) at IGEM 2023 .

REGIONAL LEADERSHIP

On Malaysia ’ s role as ASEAN ’ s chair next year , Shamsul said : “ We want Malaysia to lead the climate change agenda and have more climate action programmes .

“ When we talk about moving to net zero , Malaysia has made its pledge ; by 2050 , we will become a net zero greenhouse gas emission nation .”

The theme for IGEM 2024 , ‘ Race Towards Net Zero : Regional Leadership for Climate Urgency ,’ was chosen to reflect this strengthened resolve by the government .

Malaysia ’ s determination to

FOR A quarter of a century , the Malaysian Green

Technology and Climate Change Corporation ( MGTC ) pioneered Malaysia ’ s sustainability and green technology agenda , marking significant demonstrate both its leadership and net zero commitment addresses immediate environmental challenges while aligning with regional and international sustainability goals .

Malaysia is committed not only to its own sustainability goals but also to setting an example for other ASEAN member States .

“ If other nations can follow , it would impact the 670 million people in Southeast Asia , not only in terms of green lifestyle changes but also the production of a significant amount of green products and energy reduction .”

milestones and achievements along the way .

Established initially as Pusat Tenaga Malaysia in 1998 , with a primary focus on energyrelated initiatives , MGTC has since evolved into a comprehensive entity that encompasses a broader spectrum of sustainability and climate change efforts , reflecting the changing landscape and the corporation ’ s adaptability .

Since 2021 , MGTC has broadened its role from promoting green technology to leading national climate action and sustainability efforts . IGEM is one of its significant initiatives , and it serves as a premier platform for green innovation and collaboration .

For IGEM 2024 , MGTC has strategically partnered with Singapore ’ s Co _ Lab . This collaboration , aimed at expanding IGEM ’ s reach within Southeast Asia , is a

However , achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 poses significant challenges . These include addressing public and industry perceptions , securing incentives and subsidies , overcoming talent shortages , improving access to green technologies , and establishing consistent legislation .

To address these challenges , MGTC plans to promote education , encourage dialogue , and present actionable solutions .

This year , IGEM will feature 15 conference sessions co-hosted by industry partners to raise awareness and foster skill development

testament to the power of unity in driving sustainability .

Nonetheless , MGTC ’ s efforts to position Malaysia as a leader in green transformation and climate action extend beyond its flagship event , IGEM .

MOBILISING INVESTMENT

“ We have an incentivisation programme called Green Technology Financing Scheme ( GTFS ), which has been instrumental in mobilising investments for green projects ,” said MGTC Group Chief Executive Officer ( GCEO ) Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor .

“ The GTFS scheme started over a decade ago : so far , it has generated RM6.264 billion in green technology investment , 458 projects , 5579 green jobs , and a reduction of 5.912 million tCO2 / year .”

To further encourage ecofriendly business practices , MGTC introduced two key financial