IJM Land Bhd is advancing its commitment to responsible development through the continued growth of IJM Rimbayu, a township located in Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor. The company’s approach emphasizes creating sustainable, long-term value by integrating environmental stewardship, economic resilience, and community wellbeing.
Chief Operating Officer Datuk Chai Kian Soon highlighted that each phase of development at IJM Rimbayu aims to positively contribute to the township’s overall ecosystem. Projects such as ROAM and District 28 exemplify this strategy by combining commercial viability with features that promote walkability, green spaces, and energy-efficient infrastructure. These developments support local entrepreneurship while incorporating climate-resilient planning principles.
An important environmental innovation at IJM Rimbayu is the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems across major commercial nodes, including The Gallerie and The Club. These systems have resulted in a 52% reduction in electricity use, yielding annual savings of approximately RM153,000. The integration of solar PV panels in commercial spaces like District 28 further underscores the township’s commitment to sustainable operations. Future projects are being designed to be PV-ready, with infrastructure to accommodate electric vehicle (EV) charging and facilitate broader clean energy adoption.
IJM Land’s sustainability framework for IJM Rimbayu is grounded in four pillars—marketplace, environment, workplace, and community—and the township was masterplanned as a “township in a park” meant to be largely self-sustaining. Since its inception, the development has aimed to meld natural elements with urban living, as seen in the Rimbayu Linear Park, which features more than 2,200 trees, rainwater recycling systems, and biodiversity-focused landscaping. This park serves as the township’s ecological backbone, helping reduce carbon levels and supporting local flora and fauna. It also provides community-enhancing amenities such as farms and recreational areas.
Chai emphasized that resident engagement has grown over time, with community spaces like The ARC and various environmental campaigns fostering participation in sustainability initiatives. These include recycling drives, tree-planting programs, and neighborhood events designed to encourage care for the local environment.
Beyond environmental efforts, IJM Land promotes sustainable lifestyle habits within the township. For example, the Food Waste Processing Hub at Oasis International School educates students on circular economy principles by converting food waste into reusable resources. Additionally, electric motorbikes have been introduced for employees working onsite to advance cleaner mobility options.
Sustainability considerations are incorporated at every stage of development, from initial planning to ongoing township management. This includes prudent land use, connectivity enhancements, resource efficiency efforts, and responsible construction practices. Some buildings, including ROAM, have been designed to meet GreenRE certification standards to ensure healthier, resource-conscious environments.
Datuk Chai noted that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors are reshaping property development priorities. Buyers, investors, and regulators increasingly demand projects that go beyond location and price to demonstrate responsible environmental management and positive societal impact. IJM Land views ESG as an opportunity to innovate and deliver developments that remain relevant and resilient over time.
The company envisions IJM Rimbayu as a model for sustainable township development, where balanced planning delivers enduring benefits for both people and nature. The legacy it aims to build is one where future generations inherit a community in which natural and built environments coexist harmoniously and support a high quality of life.