KUALA LUMPUR: CEMENT Industries of Malaysia Berhad (CIMA), a wholly owned subsidiary of UEM Group Berhad, has partnered with Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) to develop eco-friendly marine concrete solutions.
CIMA is collaborating with the Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) at USM to conduct several research projects, in cooperation with the Penang Island City Council.
The research will be conducted in several phases, focusing on developing eco-friendly marine concrete solutions that enhance marine biodiversity while providing the essential durability and strength required for marine and coastal infrastructure.
"The solutions are expected to be implemented nationwide in various sustainable development projects, in support of Malaysia's aspiration to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050," it said in a statement.
CIMA will leverage its expertise in green technology and sustainable construction materials, while CEMACS will provide scientific research and marine data.
The Penang Island City Council will offer insights from the Penang 2030 vision on sustainable development.
The collaboration was sealed via the exchange of a memorandum of understanding, with CIMA represented by acting chief executive officer Khor Khai Nee and CEMACS by USM vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed.
It was witnessed by Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
Also present at the ceremony were Penang Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari; Rural Development, Trade and Entrepreneurship Committee chairman Datuk Rashidi Zinol; Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A.
Rajendran, CIMA chairman Datuk Zaiviji Ismail, UEM Group managing director Datuk Amran Hafiz Affifudin and CEMACS director Professor Datuk Dr Aileen Tan Shau Hwai.
"Our commitment transcends basic compliance; this collaboration aims to transform coastal development through innovative green solutions. By enhancing marine biodiversity, we intend to restore nature and support ecological recovery by 2050," said Zaiviji.
He added that CIMA was optimistic that this research would also yield strategies to combat the urban heat island effect, contributing to a more sustainable future.
"The introduction of eco-friendly marine concrete from this collaboration represents a significant effort to reduce the ecological footprint of coastal development, addressing challenges in resource conservationand biodiversity," said Tan.
She envisions a Penang that can lead and innovate through scientific research fostered by this partnership, with a mission to support nearly two million residents and an increasing influx of tourism.
"Our goal is to promote and accelerate green solutions, innovate in marine construction, and raise awareness and education on sustainable development in Penang and the wider nation," she added.