Syed Kamal Muzaffa giving a presentation on sustainable business practices during the session with South Johor Foundry and Engineering Industries Association as Lim (left) looks on.
MANUFACTURERS in Johor now have a clearer direction on how to implement green initiatives to meet international standards, following engagement with the authorities.
South Johor Foundry and Engineering Industries Association president Lim Kok Kiong said he was glad that Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) reached out after learning about members’ concerns.
“Mida got in touch with me after The Star highlighted our association’s concerns and how manufacturers are having a tough time implementing green initiatives to meet international environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards.
“A dialogue between Mida and our association was immediately organised.
“We had an insightful discussion on sustainable development strategies and also received feedback to help industry members o overcome challenges,” Lim said of the session in Johor Baru.
He said Mida, led by sustainability division director Syed Kamal Muzaffa Syed Hassan Sagaff, shared innovative carbon-reduction initiatives and success stories.
“The session gave us a clear direction and valuable information such as available incentives and channels to apply for them,” said Lim.
“Such information is vital as it allows industry players to apply for them directly, which can avoid unnecessary costs and consultation fees.
“We are glad to learn that there are grants that can match up to 50% of our investments, which will definitely help the industry in implementing more green initiatives,” he added.
Lim said his association had also met with United Nations Global Compact Network representatives.
“We are planning to organise a seminar soon to disseminate the information to our members as well as people from other industries, so that we can collectively make greener decisions in our businesses.
“As industry players, we are also responsible for caring for the environment besides prioritising profits.”
On Nov 4, Lim told The Star that manufacturers – especially those involved in export and import – wanted to meet standards set by international companies but were unsure about where to start.
He said lack of guidelines from the government had left the industry, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, feeling restrained by global ESG requirements.
The industry players, he said, were worried that their businesses would be threatened if they did not comply with ESG standards but at the same time, lacked resources to invest in green technology.
