KUALA LUMPUR: Cement manufacturers in Malaysia have invested more than RM200 million in air pollution control systems, leading to marked improvements in emissions and environmental outcomes in the country, said the Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. He stated that over the past two decades, industry players have made significant investments to modernise plants, reducing coal and electricity consumption through advanced production technologies and efficient equipment.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nik Nazmi urged more industry players to consider low-carbon technologies such as carbon dioxide removals and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS). “Incorporating CCUS into cement production is crucial for reducing the industry’s carbon footprint, meeting climate commitments, and positioning companies for a low carbon future as well as complying with international measures,” he remarked at the ASEAN Federation of Cement Manufacturers (AFCM) Sympo
sium and Exhibition launch ceremony.
He further emphasized the potential of carbon pricing initiatives to create economic incentives for companies to adopt CCUS technologies, reducing implementation costs over time. Additionally, Nik Nazmi highlighted the benefits of adopting circular economy principles, such as repurposing waste streams as alternative raw materials and fuel, which could help divert nearly three million tonnes of waste from landfills annually, fostering a more sustainable production cycle.
Echoing the importance of sustainability, Nik Nazmi acknowledged the growing demand for eco-friendly cement and concrete products, which are instrumental in reducing the industry’s carbon footprint and supporting regional sustainability goals. “Adapting green technologies and committing to sustainability are essential for ensuring the long-term competitiveness of the cement sector,” he stated.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to decarbonisation, indicating ongoing collaborations with p
artners at both domestic and international levels to promote industrial decarbonisation. This effort aligns with the goals of the Paris Agreement and aims for global net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. He underscored the importance of continuous dialogue and collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders to fully align with national and regional climate objectives.
Nik Nazmi concluded by stressing that through knowledge-sharing and best practices, a future can be built that not only meets net-zero emissions targets but also ensures the cement industry’s resilience and growth.