Sustainability Spotlight: Malaysian and Global Green Construction Highlights
Greener Builds & Policy Momentum — Key Sustainability Highlights in Malaysian Construction (1 – 7 May 2025)
Feature Story
Malton’s Park Green Pavilion Bukit Jalil – Malton Bhd has launched Park Green Pavilion Bukit Jalil, a new 47‑story serviced residence at Bukit Jalil that integrates luxury living with eco‑friendly design. The development earned a provisional GreenRE certification (Residential category) for its energy‑efficient features – the third green‑certified project by Malton. Over half of the living spaces are designed with cross‑ventilation to reduce air-conditioning needs, while the project also includes inverter air conditioning, rooftop solar PV panels, and rainwater harvesting systems to cut its carbon footprint. By blending green building practices (ventilation, renewables, water reuse) with high-end amenities, Park Green Pavilion exemplifies how Malaysian developers are embedding sustainability into new projects. This local case highlights industry momentum: even large residential towers can meet stringent green standards, reflecting a growing emphasis on eco‑design in Malaysia’s construction sector.
Quick Hits
Malaysia – Low-Carbon Concrete: A new industry report notes Malaysia is shifting toward low‑carbon concrete to meet climate goals. Using supplementary materials (fly ash, slag) and recycled aggregates, low‑carbon mixes can significantly cut emissions in building materials.
Malaysia – Trenchless Construction: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof announced that Malaysia will expand the use of trenchless technology (e.g. horizontal directional drilling) in infrastructure as part of a “sustainable, low‑impact” construction strategy. Such methods avoid open digging, reducing disruption and environmental damage during pipe and cable installation.
Global – Biochar Concrete: Worldwide, innovators are developing carbon‑sequestering concrete. Holcim (with architect Alejandro Aravena) introduced a biochar‑infused cement mix at the 2025 Venice Biennale. This mix uses plant‑based char so that buildings act as carbon sinks; a full‑scale prototype housing unit was built using Holcim’s “net‑zero biochar” concrete (with 100% recycled aggregates). Such breakthroughs point to a future where ordinary structures remove more CO₂ than they emit.
Regulatory Watch
The Malaysian government is reinforcing green building incentives. Under the 2025 budget and policies, tax breaks have been extended to developers of certified green projects and import duties on green technology have been waived. For example, GBI‑certified buildings now enjoy tax exemptions, spurring more projects to meet the Green Building Index criteria. In parallel, public agencies are mandating digital tools (e.g. BIM eSubmission) to streamline sustainable design and reduce waste. These measures are intended to lower costs for green construction and drive wider industry adoption of eco‑friendly practices.
Green Tip
Control Site Pollution: On‑site management can make a big sustainability difference. For example, implement erosion and sediment controls (silt fences, barriers) and dust suppression during earthworks to protect soil and air quality. Advanced equipment and practices (well‑maintained machinery, dust nets, wet cutting) can also cut noise and emissions. Such measures preserve the local environment around a construction site and improve community relations while moving towards a greener build process.
Forward Look
Events & Deadlines: A key upcoming event is International Construction Week – Borneo 2025 (13–14 May, Kuching), whose Construction Sustainability Summit will convene industry leaders to share innovations for a sustainable built environment. (The summit’s theme is “Innovative Construction for a Sustainable Future”.) Also, the Malaysia Green Building Council is holding a GBI Facilitator Course (23–25 May, online; exam on 21 June). Professionals can register by 19 May to qualify as GBI Facilitators – a certification that deepens knowledge of green building processes. These upcoming programs offer valuable opportunities for contractors and architects to upskill in green construction and certification.