AZNIAL RAHMAT

⛽⛽⛽ Understanding the Diesel Price Increase: Feedback from Business Owners ⛽⛽⛽ Malaysia’s recent decision to raise the price of diesel to RM3.35 per liter, with prices now floating based on the market, has sparked widespread complaints and concerns. As a mentor to several SME owners, I want to share some insights and feedback from various business sectors affected by this change. Yesterday was particularly challenging for industries reliant on diesel, with immediate disruptions reported. The primary aim of the price increase is to curb diesel smuggling and ensure that subsidies reach eligible users. Here’s what we gathered from different sectors: 1. F&B Business Owner with Diesel Transport - Feedback: “I’m not directly impacted as my diesel vehicle is for personal use. Fortunately, the government still provides subsidies. I recently applied and received approval for RM200/month, which will be disbursed by the 15th of each month.” 2. Quarry Owner with Diesel Transport - Feedback: “Monday morning was tough; many transporters demanded up to a 20% rate increase per trip. We didn’t approve the hike. Some transporters not in SST and can’t get the petrol card subsidy of RM2.15/l. Since I’ve been paying SST, I’m fine with the price increase and enjoy the petrol card benefits.” 3. Small Farmer with Diesel Transport - Feedback: “My diesel vehicle is only used for transporting goods and minor farm work. The subsidy covers my needs due to low usage. Larger scale operations might complain, especially if they don’t have proper incorporation.” 4. Normal Citizen with Diesel Transport - Feedback: “I use my diesel vehicle as a hobby or weekend car. If eligible, I can also receive the RM200 subsidy. It doesn’t affect me much, though it’s a different story for those using diesel for business purposes.” 5. Normal Citizen without Diesel Transport - Feedback: They’re voicing their concerns along with those not eligible for subsidies. It’s understandable. For businesses using diesel, applying for the subsidy is crucial. As stated by Minister Rafizi Ramli at yesterday’s seminar, the subsidy restructuring aims to support critical sectors. This measure helps the government reduce unnecessary expenditures and generate income for other sectors, such as education, public transport, infrastructure, healthcare, etc. While concerns about inflation are valid, I believe the government is actively monitoring the situation and has been taking measures since early this year to mitigate adverse effects. Let’s continue to adapt and find ways to navigate these changes together. #Diesel #Inflation #Harapan

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[ Energy conservation ] The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill will expand the scope of energy conservation measures. It will extend minimum energy efficiency standards to more existing industrial systems and require more works under the URA’s Plan Lodgment scheme to undergo an energy efficiency opportunities assessment. I raised three points of clarification on the Bill. Check out the video for my speech. What do you think 🤔 Let me know your thoughts and I will help raise them in Parliament. Help spread the word 😊 Thanks! #LouisNgInParliament #WeLoveNeeSoonEast #NeeSoonCares #HomeWithAHeart

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Who would have known? A solar farm can have 54x more operating profit per mature hectare than planting oil palm. At least according to Maybank Investment Bank Research. 54x !! "“Plantation companies should strike while the iron is hot. This is a golden opportunity for them to tap into a new earnings stream. It’s all about the value to be realised on the land, and we do know that plantation companies hold substantial amounts of agricultural land that can be easily converted into solar farms,” TA Investment Management Bhd chief investment officer Choo Swee Kee tells The Edge. The rental rate of solar farms is understood to be much more than the average return from planting oil palm, with Maybank Investment Bank Research estimating in a June 3 report that Large Scale Solar (LSS) projects could allow planters to generate up to 54 times more operating profit per mature hectare compared to planting the crop. SD Guthrie Bhd (KL:SDG) (formerly Sime Darby Plantation Bhd) is the only planter to have publicly stated its RE ambitions. In search of “less productive land for solar projects and more productive land for oil palm cultivation”, the company, which owns 240,309ha of land in Peninsular Malaysia, said last month that it planned to further its involvement in LSS projects via land lease and equity shareholding to own assets that can generate up to 1gw of power. Such an undertaking would require an investment of up to RM2.5 billion over the next three to five years and it believes it has the potential to deliver an 8% to 9% return on investment on a project basis. SD Guthrie has leased sites for the LSS1, LSS4 and Corporate Green Power Programme and is bidding for three more sites under the upcoming LSS5 programme." https://lnkd.in/gMbEfiif https://lnkd.in/gMbEfiif

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Still our energy affordability is a complex issue. We still have a long way to go to completely green its grid and we need strategic execution plans to manage the ‘Energy Trilemma’. **To note, the 2025 budget allocates over RM300 million to the National Energy Transition Facilitation Fund (NETR) to support decarbonization and green energy.

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Malaysia to See Boom in Renewable Energy Projects Malaysia is expected to significantly increase its capacity for renewable energy, particularly solar power. This will create a large pipeline of projects for companies in the engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning (EPCC) sector. • Project Value: RM5.6 billion to RM7 billion worth of EPCC contracts are expected to be rolled out in the next 1-2 years. • Project Types: These projects will be awarded under the Corporate Green Power Programme (CGPP) and the fifth round of the Large-Scale Solar (LSS5) program. • Project Capacity: The total capacity allocated for these solar projects is 2,800MW. • Benefits for Companies: - Higher margins compared to previous projects due to increased tariffs. - Creation of recurring income streams through ownership of solar assets like rooftop systems and large-scale plants. Factors Contributing to the Growth • Declining Solar Module Prices: This makes solar energy more affordable and could lead to faster adoption. Solar module prices have dropped significantly, from US$0.28/watt in 2021 to US$0.11/watt currently. • Oversupply in China: China, a major producer of solar modules, has an oversupply, which is expected to keep global prices low in the near future. * UOBKH Research (18 June 2024)

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The importance of role of a Monopolistic Utility in National Energy Transition Roadmap The recent public outcry over tariff increases reflects broader concerns about the monopolistic utility's role in the NETR. When any single entity is involved in decision making and would also be the primary beneficiary, it definitely would raise questions about fairness, competition, and thus alignment with transition goals. A reassessment of utility's role : As a monopolistic utility, TNB could rather focus on enabling infrastructure to support industry players, rather than leveraging its unique position to dominate renewable energy (RE) development space. The MESI 2.0 reforms emphasized TNB's role in managing the wire business—transmission and distribution—but this has been at times overshadowed by TNB's active participation in RE projects, including under the CRESS program. For instance: TNB Renewables Sdn Bhd facilitated BDC as the first partner under CRESS, thus raising concerns about the 45 sen/kWh wheeling charges and the rationality of transfer pricing. As an Energy Utility Company (EUC) and through its 100% owned RE Developer subsidiary, TNB would be signing 5 multiple contracts in various capacities, potentially creating compliance and conflict-of-interest issues. Such practices also mirror challenges seen in other countries, where unchecked monopolies have sought higher profits at the expense of smaller players and National energy transition goals. Proposed Structural Changes To ensure a fair and sustainable energy transition, I would like to propose the following: Return to Foundational Principles: TNB should realign with its original mission—Penggerak Kemajuan Negara - by fostering capacity building and enabling other industry players instead of competing with them in RE generation. Role Clarification in CRESS: Reevaluate TNB’s dual role as EUC and RE Developer to ensure fair market practices and reduce conflicts of interest impressions. Tariff Oversight Committee: Establish an independent body of industry experts reporting to the Minister of PETRA to review cost allocations, including those related to corporate, subsidiary, and operational expenses. Enhanced Public Engagement: Shift from top-down approaches to genuine dialogue through public forums and town halls. Feedback sessions should prioritize collaborative problem-solving than just meeting procedural engagement requirements. Expanded Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Audits: Incorporate review of commercial practices to ensure alignment with government policies. eg: Waste Heat Recovery remains underutilized as an energy efficiency initiative despite EECA's launching in January 2025. Decarbonization through cogeneration still imposes prohibitive infrastructure costs on customers, even though utility could benefit from IBR functionality every three years. A balanced and inclusive approach will empower the energy sector while building public trust and delivering long-term sustainability.

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Centre of Excellence for Clean Energy to be established in Sarawak, says Abg Johari Summary: Sarawak will establish a Centre of Excellence for Clean Energy, announced Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Asia Pacific Green Hydrogen (APGH) Conference and Exhibition 2024. The center will focus on innovation, research, and development in clean energy, including hydrogen, hydroelectric, solar, and biomass. It aims to bring together scientists, engineers, policymakers, and industry leaders to drive sustainable energy advancements. Alongside this, Sarawak introduced the Sarawak Energy Transition Policy (SET-P), emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and global best practices. The policy integrates multiple dimensions such as policy, regulation, technology, infrastructure, and community engagement, under the concept of ‘hypernomics’ to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The Sarawak government will target four main sectors: power, transportation, industry, and buildings. This includes ensuring reliable renewable energy, promoting green mobility, encouraging sustainable industrial practices, and advancing energy-efficient building designs. Key enablers for success include robust policy support, public-private partnerships, technological innovation, skilled workforce development, and public awareness. Sarawak will focus on eight energy types and technologies: renewable energy, hydrogen, energy efficiency, green mobility, synthetic fuels, bioenergy, oil and gas, and carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). The Centre of Excellence aims to consolidate research outputs and collaborate with private sectors and industries to advance clean energy technology. Notable attendees at the conference included Deputy Premier Dato Sri Dr. Sim Kui Hian, various ministers, and industry leaders. #CleanEnergy #SustainableInnovation #Sarawak #EnergyTransition #GreenHydrogen #RenewableEnergy #SarawakEnergy #APGH2024 #SustainableFuture #InnovationHub #HydrogenEconomy #ClimateAction #EnergyPolicy #SustainableDevelopment #RenewableResources https://lnkd.in/gsqiGFzH

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KUALA LUMPUR: Solarvest Holdings Bhd and NCT Group of Companies have announced the commencement of phase one of their project, comprising 270 solar-ready factories at the NCT Smart Industrial Park (NSIP). The NSIP will be the first solar-ready industrial park in the region, the joint developers said in a statement. In their combined efforts, Solarvest offers a streamlined approach to promote solar adoption with aims to make clean energy more feasible, affordable, and attractive to business owners, while NCT Group leverages bulk purchasing for the solar system, resulting in significant cost savings for factory owners. According to the statement, this approach eliminates the complexities of individual solar procurement beforehand, simplifying the decision-making process for business owners to adopt clean energy. NCT Group founder and group managing director Datuk Sri Yap Ngan Choy is confident the approach will significantly accelerate the adoption of solar energy in factories across Malaysia. "We are excited to equip our smart industrial park with solar capabilities. "As the largest solar developer in Malaysia, Solarvest brings unparalleled bankability, robust financial capabilities and an impressive project track record, making them the ideal partner for the success of NSIP," he said. Solarvest executive director and group CEO Davis Chong added that the developer model is a game-changer for accelerating the energy transition towards achieving net-zero for the commercial and industrial sectors. "By integrating solar system into the industrial infrastructure at the development stage, we reduce Scope 2 emission from the very beginning of the supply chain. "This is an effective strategy to reduce carbon footprints at a larger scale, and it aligned perfectly with our mission in making clean energy solutions reliable, accessible, and affordable for all." Upon completion of the development, the installation process of solar PV system is expected to take six to eight months for each factory. These factories are expected to install solar PV system with a total capacity of 36,000kWp, which will be offsetting up to 25,515 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

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Unearthing Potential: A Look Inside Kamojang Geothermal Power Plant As part of the recent Management Forum Mid Year 2024 activities, our Strategy & Investment (S&I) team embarked on a Management Walkthrough (MWT) to the Kamojang Geothermal Power Plant. This visit offered a glimpse into the inner workings of a powerful contributor to our portfolio, while also sparking discussions on exciting new possibilities. Beyond its core function of electricity generation, the Kamojang plant houses a fully-certified (ISO 17001) Geothermal Laboratory, boasting the potential for a significant commercialization leap. The question arises: how can we best leverage this state-of-the-art facility for both internal (captive) and external (non-captive) markets? The answer is threefold. Firstly, the lab presents a unique opportunity to strengthen the synergy between our Geothermal and Upstream business units. Secondly, commercialization of the lab's services broadens our revenue streams and market reach. Finally, this move positions us as a leader in geothermal expertise, attracting new partnerships and propelling us beyond the boundaries of traditional power generation. The MWT solidified the notion that our Geothermal business stands tall on a foundation of skilled personnel, advanced facilities, and the potential for groundbreaking expansion. Stay tuned for further developments as we unlock the full potential of this remarkable asset.

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Sarawak aims to lead regional energy transition, becoming the ‘Battery of Asean’, says Abang Johari Summary: Sarawak is positioning itself as a key player in Southeast Asia’s energy transition, with ambitions to become the “Battery of ASEAN,” said Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) Summit. Sarawak aims to harness its vast renewable energy potential, predominantly through hydropower, and supply clean energy to the region via the ASEAN Power Grid. As the demand for clean energy grows across ASEAN, Sarawak’s renewable energy initiatives are essential for enhancing cross-border energy exchange, improving regional energy security, and supporting the broader clean energy transition. Abang Johari emphasized that realizing the ASEAN Power Grid will require political will, regulatory harmonization, infrastructure development, and strong regional cooperation. Sarawak is actively collaborating with Malaysia's federal government and Indonesia to accelerate the development of the ASEAN Power Grid. The state has already forged partnerships with neighboring countries, including Indonesia, Sabah, Brunei, and Singapore, for cross-border energy trade, with pioneering projects such as the Borneo-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines interconnection. A key initiative under this framework is the Mentarang Induk Hydroelectric Plant (MIHEP) in Indonesia, which aims to tap into North Kalimantan’s significant hydropower resources, further solidifying Sarawak’s leadership in the regional energy landscape. Sarawak is also in discussions with Indonesia regarding the construction of an undersea cable to export electricity to Singapore, with hopes that this infrastructure will be operational by 2030. Looking ahead, Sarawak's strategic role in the ASEAN energy ecosystem will likely be further strengthened as Malaysia takes over the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025. This shift is expected to drive more integrated and collaborative efforts to advance the region's energy connectivity and sustainability goals. #SIEW2024 #ASEANPowerGrid #Sarawak #RenewableEnergy #Hydropower #CleanEnergy #EnergyTransition #RegionalCooperation #EnergySecurity #CrossBorderEnergyTrade https://lnkd.in/gss7NsSb

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Maybank's InvestASEAN 2024 conference titled "FDIs: What Matters" The Penang state government sees the Maybank InvestASEAN 2024 conference as an opportunity to highlight how the Mutiara LRT project and Penang Silicon Island are key drivers for attracting foreign direct investments (FDIs). Penang state government stressed upon the importance of Penang's LRT project (Mutiara LRT) as a crucial game changer in connecting Penang Island and the mainland. This will not only improve mobility of Penangites but also serves as one of the catalysts to the State's economic growth. The State Government is also impetuous in expanding its Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone through the establishment of high-tech Green Tech Park on Penang Silicon Island. Through Penang Silicon Island, the State Government anticipates a projected gross domestic product (GDP) contribution of RM1.1 trillion, attracting investments totaling RM74.7 billion and creating 220,000 job opportunities. Overall, it seems like Penang is trying to position itself as a well-connected and innovative state, making it a favourable destination for foreign investments.

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Sabah plays a vital role in Malaysia's energy sector, contributing almost 40% of the country's oil and nearly 20% of gas production. Excited to attend SOGCE to discuss Malaysia's strategic direction for the downstream petroleum and petrochemical industry. #investinMalaysia #SOGCE2024 #acceleratingenergytransition #decarbonisation

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💡 Out now: Policy Insight - Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS) Did you know? The Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme (CRESS), published by the Energy Commission of Malaysia, facilitates the direct procurement of green electricity by corporations in Peninsular Malaysia. In this policy insight, the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) provides a summary of the new policy established by the Energy Commission of Malaysia and highlights how CRESS supports Malaysia’s net-zero aspirations. It accelerates renewable energy growth, improves grid accessibility, and simplifies energy transactions through innovative mechanisms like Third-Party Access (TPA) and system access charges.   🔗 Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g--VUdZ3 ✍ ASEAN Centre for Energy

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Ensuring Fair Electricity Prices for Sabah and Labuan: Energy Commission Conducts Review The Malaysia Energy Commission (EC) recently joined forces with the Economic Consultant Association (ECA) to review the Incentive Based Regulation (IBR) Regulatory Period 2 (RP2) for Sabah Electricity Sdn. Bhd. (SESB). This framework sets electricity tariffs, and the review aims to ensure fair and efficient pricing for Sabah and Labuan residents. The initiative began with a meeting on May 15th with the Energy Commission of Sabah (ECOS) to discuss the direction for setting electricity tariffs in the region. This was followed by a crucial challenge session at Wisma SESB on May 16th, where SESB's proposal for future tariffs underwent thorough review by the EC and ECA. To gain a deeper understanding of SESB's operations, the commission and consultants embarked on a site visit to Labuan. This included inspecting key infrastructure like the Patau-Patau Power Station, a Power Metering Unit (PMU) at Rancha-Rancha, the Cable Landing Station at Tanjung Aru, and two solar farms. This comprehensive review process demonstrates the EC's commitment to establishing fair and sustainable electricity pricing for Sabah and Labuan, considering both efficiency and the specific needs of the region.

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📍Workshop on ASEAN Low-Carbon Energy Technologies Roadmap (ALERT) - Phase I Associated with the 31st Renewable Energy Sub-Sector Network (RE-SSN) Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) conducted a workshop on the “ASEAN Low-carbon Energy Technology Roadmap (ALERT) – Phase I: Hydrogen and Ammonia”, a collaborative study between ACE and the ERIA: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) to map out the role of hydrogen and ammonia technologies in the ASEAN region. The workshop emphasised the importance of low-carbon energy technologies to counter increased fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions, gathering perspectives from AMS renewable energy policymakers and investigating enablers, drivers, difficulties, and national strategies to foster low-carbon technology. 🔗 Read more: https://lnkd.in/gk4RKi8g

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NEW YEAR GREETINGS As we step into 2025, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Selangor and our valued stakeholders. This past year has been one of growth and progress for KDEBWM, and none of this would have been possible without the trust and support of the taxpayers and community members we serve. Your continued commitment to a cleaner, greener environment is what drives us every day, and we are excited to continue this journey with you into the new year. At KDEBWM, our mission goes beyond just managing waste; we are dedicated to transforming the way waste is handled across Selangor. As we embrace smart waste management practices, we are bringing cutting-edge technology to the forefront. From intelligent waste monitoring systems to data-driven optimization of collection routes, we are improving efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impact. These innovations are not only smarter but also reflect our dedication to creating a sustainable, forward-thinking State. One of our core focuses this year will be advancing our commitment to the circular economy. By turning waste into a resource, we are reducing the need for landfills and encouraging a cycle of reuse, recycling, and repurposing. We are working on building systems that not only address the waste problem but also generate new opportunities for resource recovery and energy generation. This approach will not only benefit the environment but also create economic value for Selangor, helping build a sustainable future for generations to come. We recognize that our role extends beyond the technicalities of waste management; we are here to meet the expectations of the taxpayers and stakeholders of Selangor. As we continue to improve and innovate, we remain committed to transparency, accountability, and providing value. Our goal is not only to deliver efficient services but to ensure that every initiative aligns with the needs of the people we serve. The cooperation between KDEBWM and the citizens of Selangor is integral to our shared success. For 2025, let us continue to work together to build a smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable future. We understand the importance of delivering on our promises, and we are excited to see what we can accomplish in the coming year. We are more determined than ever to uphold the trust placed in us by the people of Selangor, and together, we will make lasting changes that will benefit everyone. Wishing you all a prosperous and sustainable New Year! Waste is not dirty but waste is money, together we can keep Selangor and Malaysia Clean. Sincerely Yours, DATO’ HJ RAMLI MOHD TAHIR, D.S.I.S. (Selangor) MANAGING DIRECTOR _______________________________

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