PETALING JAYA: IOI Properties Group Bhd
’s (IOI Prop) IOI City Mall has received the green building index (GBI) certification under non-residential existing building.
In a statement, the property developer said it would be prioritising the integration of green building design into its developments by implementing environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives across its business segments.
The group will also be adopting the low carbon cities framework.
“The GBI certification of IOI City Mall marks an exciting milestone in our sustainability journey for IOI Properties Group.
“It reflects the group’s commitment to operate responsibly, minimising our impact on the environment, as we continue to enhance our value proposition while safeguarding the environment for future generations,” said IOI Prop chief executive officer Datuk Voon Tin Yow.
Developed by Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia and the Association of Consulting Engineers Malaysia, GBI is Malaysia’s first comprehensive green rating system.
It evaluates the environmental design and performance of local buildings based on criteria such as energy efficiency, indoor environment quality, sustainable site planning and management, materials and resources, as well as water efficiency and innovation.
IOI Prop said mall tenants and customers had become increasingly aware of the importance of sustainable practices.
This is in addition to regulators and investors who have over the years raised their expectations on business to enhance their ESG performance.
“Businesses are more resilient if ESG-related risks and opportunities are well-managed. Integrating sustainability in business operations is a journey and the group has aligned its overall strategy and sustainability efforts to meet regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations,” it said.
IOI City Mall installed high-performance glass and wall material to lower heat buildup in a bid to conserve energy. Double roof design as well as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are also employed to reduce heat transfer.
“Additionally, the mall uses a thermal energy storage system, which is a highly energy-efficient cooling system that chills water during its non-operational hours. Besides, the installation of a solar PV system has also lowered energy emissions.
“In the financial year of 2022, we managed to reduce carbon emissions equivalent to 2,727.42 tCO2/year,” said IOI Prop.
In conserving water, IOI City Mall installed water-saving features like water sub-meters at public toilets to monitor for leakages.
The mall also ensures its air-conditioning system provides fresh air and thermal comfort in order to maintain the quality of its indoor environment.
“As an environmentally-conscious shopping and lifestyle destination, IOI City Mall is also committed to reducing pollution and lowering carbon footprint. It offers a bus terminal facility within its premises to encourage the use of public transport.
“A carpark facility with a parking guidance system to speed up parking time was also made available,” said IOI Prop.
A ticketless licence plate recognition system was also installed at the parking facility to eliminate paper wastage.
To promote the use of electric vehicles, IOI City Mall has also set up electric vehicle charging stations.
GBI accreditation panel chairman Serina Hijjas said: “GBI is proud of IOI Prop’s commitment towards the green industry, which augurs well for a sustainable and environmentally-friendly-built environment for the present and future generations of the country.
“GBI acknowledges the enormous efforts made by IOI City Mall to achieve energy efficiency and carbon dioxide reduction.”
