Kuala lumpur: The Energy Efficiency Challenge (EE Challenge) has successfully promoted prudent energy use, saving 1,701,055 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy, equivalent to RM900,841, over its 12-year implementation from 2014 to 2025. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, highlighted the programme's impact in preventing 1,316 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions during the same period. He noted that this reduction is comparable to the growth of more than 54,850 trees over a decade.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, this year's EE Challenge achieved energy savings of 133,030 kWh, or RM60,395, which is more than double the savings recorded in 2024. Fadillah emphasized that the EE Challenge is part of the Malaysia Energy Literacy Programme (MELP), a national initiative aimed at fostering an energy-savvy society through edutainment activities and interactive learning.
The national programme is set to expand comprehensively next year, integrating content into the Malaysian Digital Education Learning Initiative (DELIMa) platform under the Ministry of Education (MOE). Additionally, state-level carnivals will be held to engage communities in energy education-based activities and competitions, crucial steps in shaping an energy-literate society capable of making informed energy consumption decisions.
Fadillah stressed that energy efficiency relies on personal attitude, discipline, and awareness, particularly among the youth. He highlighted that energy-efficient habits can be cultivated through small daily choices, such as turning off unused lights and valuing available resources. Energy efficiency, he said, reflects our morals, wisdom, and responsibility as stewards of the earth.
In the realm of educational institutions, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Hang Kasturi, Melaka, was named the Most Energy-Efficient School, winning first place and receiving a plaque, RM15,000 in cash, and a certificate of achievement. SMK (P) Sultan Ibrahim, Johor, secured second place with a prize of RM12,000, while SMK Kerteh, Terengganu, took third place, earning RM10,000.