Penang has introduced stricter sustainability requirements for new commercial and industrial buildings, marking a major step in its transition towards cleaner energy. Under the new guideline, at least 75% of a building’s roof area must be installed with solar panels, or the building must meet renewable energy sourcing targets according to its Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) tariff category.

State infrastructure, transport and digital committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said the move aims to boost renewable energy usage in line with the Penang Energy Framework (PEF) — the state’s roadmap towards its 2030 clean energy and efficiency goals. Depending on their energy category, buildings must source between 2% and 25% of their total consumption from renewable sources.

“Large commercial buildings with air-conditioned areas exceeding 4,000 square metres must also ensure that at least 2% of their energy comes from renewables,” Zairil said in his keynote address at the Penang Green Summit 2025, held at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre on October 30.

He described the PEF as a “living document” designed to evolve with changing needs, policies, and technologies — while fostering behavioural change and energy-efficient practices across industries.

To expand renewable energy generation despite limited land availability, Zairil revealed that Penang Water Supply Corporation (PBAPP) is studying the feasibility of floating solar systems on several dams. “Floating solar offers a viable and innovative way to harness clean energy,” he said.

He added that renewable energy will also play a central role in the upcoming Penang Silicon Island (PSI) development. Its Green Tech Park will be fully powered by solar energy in the first phase, supported by rooftop panels and off-site renewable procurement.

Zairil said Penang’s clean energy initiatives are aligned with national policies, particularly the Federal Government’s Solar ATAP programme, which encourages businesses to invest in solar solutions. “The journey forward requires innovation, investment, and collaboration — the government alone cannot achieve this transition,” he said.

Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the summit, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which targets net-zero emissions by 2050. He said the Penang Green Summit has evolved into a collaborative platform uniting policymakers, industries, academia, and communities in advancing low-carbon growth.

Chow added that since the launch of the PEF in November 2024, local councils — Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang (MBPP) and Majlis Bandaraya Seberang Perai (MBSP) — have already begun integrating renewable and efficiency criteria into their building approval processes.

Solar Voltech, a subsidiary of the Penang Development Corporation (PDC), has been appointed to spearhead renewable upgrades for public buildings, while the Penang Green Council (PGC) is developing an AI-assisted energy data platform for more informed and efficient planning.

The summit also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad to establish the Climate Mitigation Fund (CM Fund) — Malaysia’s first state-level blended financing initiative to help SMEs transition towards sustainable, ESG-driven operations.

Malaysia’s path towards sustainable urban growth took centre stage as PropertyGuru Malaysia and iProperty Malaysia convened more than 121 developers and 350 delegates at the FutureBuilt Summit 2025.

In collaboration with Green Building Index, GreenRE, and People Systems Consultancy, the one-day summit brought together developers, policymakers, financiers, engineers, and sustainability experts to discuss how the property ecosystem can accelerate the nation’s transition toward greener, smarter, and more resilient cities.

As Malaysia aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, the property sector is increasingly recognised as a key driver of sustainable growth. According to a recent study of 91 Malaysian-listed property firms, stronger ESG performance has been linked to improved profitability and higher market valuations, underscoring the business case for sustainability in real estate development. This reinforces the view that developers who integrate robust ESG practices can contribute to the country’s decarbonisation goals, while creating measurable value for shareholders and stakeholders alike.

Dr. Lee Nai Jia, Head of Real Estate Intelligence at PropertyGuru Group

At the heart of the discussions were insights from Dr. Lee Nai Jia, Head of Real Estate Intelligence at PropertyGuru Group, who shared findings on how economic conditions, government policies, and lifestyle shifts are reshaping Malaysia’s homebuying landscape. According to PropertyGuru’s proprietary data, housing demand began recovering in April 2025 after a brief slowdown, reflecting buyers’ adaptability despite uncertainty. Non-landed home prices in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, and Penang also continued to grow year-on-year, showing steady market confidence.

Dr. Nai Jia noted that younger buyers, especially Gen Z and Millennials, are becoming more selective and value-driven, prioritising trust, branding, and sustainability when choosing developers. He said developers who are transparent and responsible will stand out in today’s cautious market. This is supported by a study, which found that 84% of Gen Z Malaysians prefer high-rise homes for their proximity to workplaces, public transport, and amenities, and by another research, which showed that Millennials are more likely to buy green homes when they see fair pricing, good value, and understand eco-friendly features.

Kenneth Soh, Country Manager of PropertyGuru & iProperty Malaysia

Kenneth Soh, Country Manager of PropertyGuru & iProperty Malaysia, said, “The FutureBuilt Summit’s focus on ESG and technology reflects two key forces shaping Malaysia’s property landscape. Under the 13th Malaysia Plan and Budget 2026, we’re seeing stronger alignment around sustainability, digitalisation, and affordability, with RM6.09 billion allocated to improve liveability and an expanded RM20 billion Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme to help more Malaysians own homes. Our data shows that demand is strongest for homes below RM300,000, especially in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, and Penang. Affordability now goes beyond price as it includes connectivity, comfort, and sustainability. These changes present a chance for the industry to create developments that are more inclusive, responsible, and future-ready.”

The summit brought together thought leaders and policymakers to discuss sustainable financing, ESG adoption, and the role of technology in smarter urban planning. Speakers included Ar. Sarly Adre Sarkum, CEO of Green Building Index, who spoke on sustainability and innovation in Malaysian developments, and Nur Fateha Jamaluddin, Senior Manager of GreenRE, who highlighted the long-term value of ESG. Panels led by Green Building Index, GreenRE, Think City, and The Institution of Engineers Malaysia explored ESG-focused development, urban planning, and the needs of younger homebuyers. The event concluded with a CEO Roundtable by Think City and Triterra, reinforcing a collective vision for sustainable and inclusive communities.

Cécile Corda, Head of Sustainability at PropertyGuru Group

Cécile Corda, Head of Sustainability at PropertyGuru Group, said “The market is leaning toward sustainable, inclusive living, and PropertyGuru is responding with practical solutions. By arming property seekers and industry partners with tools to make informed and responsible choices, we’re helping shape resilient, inclusive cities and driving meaningful shifts across the housing landscape.”

Cécile also shared insights from PropertyGuru’s 2024 Sustainability Report, noting that 83% of Malaysians would pay a premium for homes with sustainable features, while 77% already consider climate risks in their property decisions.

At the FutureBuilt Summit 2025, industry leaders underscored a new growth mindset that redefines success beyond profitability, one that priorities long-term value for people, communities, and the environment. As Malaysia’s property sector enters a crucial decade shaped by urbanisation, climate change, and evolving buyer expectations, the summit highlighted the urgent need for public-private collaboration to drive the transition towards sustainable, resilient, and inclusive cities. Achieving this vision, leaders agreed, will require data transparency, innovative financing, and stronger policy alignment to translate ESG ambitions into tangible action.

The summit reflects PropertyGuru’s commitment to building a more sustainable, innovative, and inclusive property sector in Malaysia. By uniting industry leaders, policymakers, and developers, PropertyGuru continues to drive responsible growth and future-ready communities.

The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) is taking serious steps to tackle one of Malaysia’s long-standing housing issues — abandoned private projects. On November 20, the ministry will be announcing five new reforms aimed at completely wiping out such projects by 2030.

Housing Minister Nga Kor Ming said the changes are part of a bigger plan to tighten governance, improve financial management, and give homebuyers better protection. One of the main goals is to shift the industry from the usual “sell then build” (STB) system to the “build then sell” (BTS) model, which offers more security for buyers.

Under the 10:90 BTS scheme, buyers only pay 10% upfront, and the rest — 90% — is paid after the project is completed and certified. Nga said this method greatly reduces the risk of projects being abandoned or leaving buyers with unfinished homes. “The government supports the BTS model because it protects buyers and makes sure developers deliver as promised,” he said in Parliament.

Still, the government won’t make the BTS model mandatory for now. Nga explained that not all developers have the financial strength or resources to take on BTS projects, and forcing it could hurt smaller players in the market.

To support the shift, KPKT is updating the Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act 1966 (Act 118). The amendments will focus on improving financial management, tightening developer regulations, and strengthening homebuyer rights. Nga also reminded that developers need solid financial backing to carry out BTS projects smoothly.

On top of that, developers are now required to put down a 3% deposit of their project’s gross development value (GDV) into a housing development account. For example, a project worth RM1 billion would need a RM30 million deposit — a move to make sure there’s enough cash flow to keep construction going.

Nga also shared some good news: the ministry’s taskforce on abandoned projects has managed to revive 1,600 developments so far, benefiting around 163,000 homebuyers nationwide. “This is part of our effort to not only fix abandoned projects but also prevent them from happening again,” he said.

With these new reforms, KPKT hopes to create a stronger, more transparent housing industry — one where buyers can finally feel confident that the homes they’ve paid for will actually be completed.

The ICW & BuildXpo 2025, comprising the 27th International Construction Week (ICW) and the third edition of Malaysia’s International Building and Construction Industry Showcase (BuildXpo), held its official opening ceremony opened yesterday at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC). ICW & BuildXpo 2025 signals Malaysia’s leadership role in shaping a resilient, sustainable and digitally driven construction future for ASEAN.

Hosted by the Ministry of Works, Malaysia and jointly organised by the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia and Qube Integrated Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., the event spans 10,000 square metres and features more than 350 exhibition booths with 200 companies from 10 countries.

Held from 28th to 30th October 2025 with the theme “Constructing the Future of ASEAN”, this year’s edition anchors Malaysia’s leadership as ASEAN Chair 2025, highlighting the country’s commitment to regional collaboration, sustainability and digital transformation within the construction ecosystem.

Sustainable, Inclusive Growth

Officiating the opening ceremony, Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Minister of Works, said the event demonstrates Malaysia’s determination to drive innovation and inclusivity across ASEAN’s construction landscape.

“This year’s ICW takes place during a pivotal moment, Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. Aptly themed ‘Constructing the Future of ASEAN’, the event echoes our shared aspiration to build a region that is sustainable, digital, and inclusive. Across ASEAN, infrastructure remains a cornerstone of progress,” said Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

“The Asian Development Bank estimates that ASEAN requires about USD 2.8 trillion in infrastructure investment between 2016 and 2030, roughly USD 184 billion annually. Under Malaysia’s ASEAN stewardship, the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Strategic Plan 2026–2030 aligns the region’s infrastructure goals with global sustainability standards, fostering resilience and regional connectivity for a low-carbon, future-ready ASEAN,” he added.

The opening ceremony drew over 1,000 delegates, including senior officials from ASEAN member states, China and the Middle East, alongside representatives from government agencies, industry associations, academia and the private sector.

Empowering ASEAN Through Innovation and Digital Transformation

During his speech at the opening ceremony, Dato Ir. Haji Yusuf Bin Haji Abd. Wahab, CIDB Chairman, said the strong international turnout affirms ICW’s position as a regional platform for innovation and collaboration.

“ICW 2025 is not merely an exhibition; it is a living knowledge hub, where industry professionals, educators, and innovators come together to share ideas, explore technologies, and spark collaboration. This year’s programme has been curated to cater to every segment of our construction ecosystem – from students and young professionals to practitioners and global experts,” said Dato Ir. Haji Yusuf Bin Haji Abd. Wahab.

The opening ceremony also highlighted CIDB’s ongoing initiatives to promote green building, digital adoption and talent development in line with the National Construction Policy (NCP) 2030 and Construction 4.0 Strategic Plan. The opening ceremony was followed by the launch of the Malaysian Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Roadmap 2030 by the Ministry of Works, and the formalisation of the collaboration on the Construction Digital Maturity Index (CDMI) Programme, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between CIDB and Lembaga Perumahan dan Hartanah Perak (LPHP).

Industry Collaboration and Regional Participation

Returning as a Key Industry Partner, Gamuda Berhad reaffirmed its commitment to advancing innovation and sustainability in the construction sector, while global professional services firm Turner & Townsend headlined the International Construction Transformation Conference (ICTC), offering insights into ASEAN construction trends and the rapidly expanding data centre industry.

The event also features participation from ASEAN, Sarawak and Sabah Pavilions, as well as international exhibitors from China, Korea, Japan and Europe. In total, over 350 booths are showcasing the latest construction technologies, materials and systems.

Through the International Sourcing Programme (INSP) jointly organised with MATRADE, Malaysian companies are engaging in B2B sessions with 17 international buyers from 12 countries and territories, fostering export opportunities and regional partnerships.

A major highlight of the event was the groundbreaking exhibition of a modular home unit by SIBS (Scandinavian Industrialised Building Systems), one of the world’s leading in modular construction technology, who has partnered with CIDB IBS for the BuildXpo 2025. Their participation at this year’s edition marks the first time that the Swedish-based organisation is showcasing their such a unit in Malaysia.

Building on Momentum from Borneo

ICW & BuildXpo 2025 builds on the success of ICW Borneo 2025, held in Kuching in May, the inaugural regional edition that showcased Sarawak’s growing role as a construction hub and served as a precursor to the Kuala Lumpur showcase.

Mr. Richard Teo, Qube Integrated Malaysia Sdn Bhd Executive Chairman, reiterated ICW & BuildXpo’s impact as a platform for the industry, and its plans for growth.

“At Qube, our vision has always been clear – to create meaningful platforms where innovation meets opportunity, and where businesses can connect, collaborate, and grow. Looking forward, we are committed to expanding BuildXpo’s international footprint and presence. Our collaboration with GlassTech Asia & Fenestration Asia (GAFA) 2026, which will further elevate Malaysia’s profile in the global built environment. GAFA, organised by Messe Munchen International (MMI) Asia Pte Ltd, is an exciting showcase that will be held in conjunction with BuildXpo 2026,” said Mr. Richard Teo.

A Platform for Growth and Partnership

ICW & BuildXpo 2025 features a comprehensive programme that includes ICTC, the Digital Construction Summit, Women Way Forward (W2F) Conference, BINA Modular Asia Forum, Facilities Management Conference, CIDB QUEST Day, and the Youth Arena Programme.

Set to welcome 12,000 visitors and participation from government bodies, and related industries, the event continues to serve as a key driver of regional growth, industry excellence
and professional exchange.

BuildXpo 2025 is endorsed by MATRADE and supported by CIDB’s key agencies, including CIDB IBS, e-Construct, CREAM and CLAB, as well as Kementerian Belia dan Sukan, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Perkeso and over 20 industry associations.

Every great journey begins with a single step — and for Metrio Group, that step has just gone skyward. The developer recently celebrated the groundbreaking of Forescape @ Metrioplace, its first-ever high-rise development, marking a bold new milestone in the fast-growing Batu Kawan and Bukit Tambun corridor.

Poised within the vibrant 35.3-acre Metrioplace Commercial Hub, Forescape represents more than just the start of construction — it’s the start of a new lifestyle. Designed for today’s urban professionals, the development brings together modern convenience, resort-style comfort, and future-ready flexibility in one striking address.

Just minutes away from BKIP 3 (Batu Kawan Industrial Park Phase 3), Forescape offers dual-key serviced residences thoughtfully crafted for versatility — whether as a home, an investment, or both. Imagine living close to work, yet coming home to a retreat that feels like a vacation every day.

From its sleek architecture to its well-planned community spaces, Forescape embodies Metrio Group’s vision to create homes that inspire and elevate. As the project begins to rise, so too does the promise of a new skyline — one defined by ambition, innovation, and a sense of belonging.

The Forescape show unit is now open daily from 11am to 6pm. Visit and experience how life at Metrioplace could be your next great step forward. Call +6019-4292441 for more information.