General : Melaka Steps Up Sustainable Development, Green Transformation Agendas - Arthur

Melaka is advancing swiftly in its sustainable development and green transformation goals, according to Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh highlighted the political commitment and courage that have made sustainability a reality. Melaka's vision as a Green Champion State, central to the Melakaku Maju Jaya Strategic Plan 2035 (PSMJ 2035), serves as an example for the entire nation.

The state has shown commitment to ESG standards, building a Sustainable Biomass Hub, increasing solar energy usage, and improving environmental governance through digitalization via the Smart Melaka Blueprint. Arthur emphasized that environmental protection is a collective responsibility involving the government, local authorities, industries, communities, and individuals.

Rauf discussed Melaka's main focus areas for environmental sustainability, outlined in the PSMJ 2035, including preparing a greenhouse gas emissions inventory report and expanding the renewable energy sector with solar farms in Ayer Keroh, Rembia, Bemban, and Masjid Tanah. By 2027, Melaka aims to have its first hybrid solar farm in Jus Dam, covering 122 hectares. The SolarMEL initiative by Perbadanan Teknologi Hijau Melaka (PTHM) encourages various solar energy applications, from residential rooftops to large projects.

Other priorities include developing the Sungai Udang Waste-to-Energy project, increasing electric vehicle charging stations, enhancing green spaces, and preserving natural heritage through the Melaka Geopark Aspirations.