The Housing and Local Government Ministry in Malaysia has become the first government ministry in the country to receive the GreenRE Gold rating for Existing Non-Residential Buildings (ENRB v3.3), underscoring its commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable building management. The certification was officially awarded during a ceremony held on Tuesday at the ministry’s headquarters in Putrajaya.
Minister Nga Kor Ming highlighted the significance of the recognition as a reflection of the ministry’s efforts to integrate sustainability into its own operations, beyond merely advocating for green initiatives through policies and programs. “As the ministry responsible for shaping sustainable communities and greener cities, we must practise what we preach,” Nga stated. He described the award as a validation of their initiatives to boost energy efficiency, optimise resource use, and maintain a healthier workplace environment.
The ministry’s office, housed in a 38-storey building with four basement levels and a total floor area of approximately 117,540 square meters, also earned a Gold Energy Certificate rating. It features several environmentally friendly design elements, including a connection to a district cooling network that achieves a Building Energy Intensity of 89.9 kWh per square meter annually.
Additional green features include a rooftop solar photovoltaic system providing a renewable energy contribution of 0.26%, water-efficient fittings designed to conserve water usage, and carbon monoxide sensors in the basement car parks that adjust ventilation based on real-time air quality data. The building also benefits from structured energy monitoring policies and a comprehensive waste recycling program.
To promote sustainable mobility, the ministry has integrated on-site electric vehicle charging stations, accessible public bus stops, and dedicated bicycle parking facilities. Moreover, annual air quality audits and designated environmental awareness zones support a healthier and more sustainable workplace for staff and visitors.
Looking ahead, Nga revealed plans to establish a dedicated department responsible for overseeing green building rating tools nationwide. This unit will aim to widen the adoption of sustainable standards across public and private sectors, with an emphasis on exploring financial incentives such as reduced financing costs, improved borrowing terms, and lower tax rates for certified green buildings.
The ministry is also targeting an upgrade to the GreenRE Platinum rating in future, signalling its ongoing commitment to continuous improvement in energy and resource management within government buildings.