Chai says IJM Land’s commitment to ESG is about responsible building as well as creating long-term value for tenants, entrepreneurs, and the broader community.
MALAYSIA’S property market is moving beyond traditional development, with sustainability and long-term value taking centre stage.
Among the prominent examples is IJM Rimbayu, an award-winning green township by IJM Land Bhd and the co-sponsor of the ESG Positive Impact Awards (ESG PIA), which showcases how sustainable principles can be embedded into thriving urban and commercial ecosystems.
IJM Rimbayu reflects the wider ESG-driven approach of IJM Land, whose chief operating officer Datuk Chai Kian Soon, says the company’s commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles is about responsible building as well as creating long-term value for tenants, entrepreneurs, and the broader community, with good governance playing an equally important role.
“At IJM Land, we design and build properties that last decades where sustainability and innovation underpin every development. ESG principles are embedded across every stage of our developments through an integrated approach that aligns environmental responsibility, innovation, and integrity,” he says.
This integrated approach manifests itself visibly across IJM Land’s portfolio. Its buildings adopt biophilic design, energy- and water-efficient systems and advanced construction methods such as Industrialised Building Systems (IBS).
These strategies help minimise site impact, reduce waste, and elevate construction quality and safety. The company has also set an ambitious target, which is that all new residential, selected commercial, and investment properties are to carry GreenRE certification, ensuring that sustainability performance is measurable and transparent.
“Reduced operating costs, healthier spaces and a sustainable ecosystem that fosters efficiency and growth among small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) partners are among the benefits,” says Chai.
Setting the new standard
IJM Land’s sustainability philosophy is best exemplified by IJM Rimbayu, widely recognised as a benchmark for eco-focused township planning in Malaysia.
“Every IJM Land township reflects our vision for liveable, sustainable urban growth, where innovation and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. IJM Rimbayu exemplifies this – a township designed to endure, thrive and inspire a sustainable urban future,” says Chai.
Passive design strategies allow homes and commercial spaces to harness natural lighting and ventilation, reducing energy consumption.
Biophilic principles guide the township’s spatial planning, creating seamless connections between residents and nature.
The ARC, a landmark within Rimbayu, captures the company’s ethos – powered by a rainwater harvesting system and 750 photovoltaic panels, it serves both functional needs and community aspirations.
“Townships like IJM Rimbayu demonstrate that progress, innovation and care for the planet can move forward together.”
Green commercial spaces
While sustainability is often highlighted in residential development, IJM Land sees equal opportunity within the commercial sphere.
Developments such as ROAM, a 2.25ha commercial hub, and District 28 at IJM Rimbayu are conceived as ecosystems that enable entrepreneurship to flourish.
“Our commercial developments are ecosystems for entrepreneurship, integrating biophilic design, vertical greenery, energy-efficient planning and 100-year storm resilience to create healthy, inspiring business spaces.
“The layouts prioritise flexibility, allowing SMEs to adapt and grow without costly redesigns. This creates long-term operational efficiency and offers businesses a competitive edge,”says Chai.
He adds that IJM Land extends ESG principles across its commercial ecosystem, encouraging supply chain partners to enhance sustainability performance, while ensuring economic vitality coexists with environmental mindfulness in Rimbayu.
Empowering SMEs
As SMEs form the backbone of Malaysia’s economy, their ability to adopt sustainable practices is essential to national progress. Chai’s advice is straightforward – ambition need not start big.
“Sustainability doesn’t have to begin with large investments. What matters most is commitment, consistency and a long-term vision. Simple steps such as reducing waste, improving energy efficiency, or sourcing responsibly can yield significant gains.
“With more corporations decarbonising their supply chains, SMEs that take early action stand to benefit from cost savings, resilience and stronger customer trust. As seen in IJM Rimbayu’s ecosystem, progress and purpose can indeed move forward together,” he notes.
Championing ESG
IJM Rimbayu’s role as co-sponsor of the ESG PIA, organised by Star Media Group, highlights its ambition to drive wider industry change.
Describing ESG PIA as “a platform that celebrates businesses creating positive environmental and social impact”, Chai notes that the company sees it as an opportunity to spotlight sustainability in action – whether through energy-efficient systems, resource-conscious infrastructure, or community-oriented design within IJM Rimbayu.
“Our sponsorship reflects our commitment to advancing Malaysia’s sustainability agenda. By showcasing role models in responsible business, we aim to encourage wider ESG adoption across industries,” he says.
Collaboration remains central to the developer’s strategy, working with SMEs, suppliers and communities to improve emissions tracking and strengthen sustainability practices across the value chain, including Scope 3.
“These efforts help build collective capacity, ensuring that our partners can grow and adapt alongside us as sustainability expectations evolve.
“Through shared purpose and long-term commitment, IJM Land aims to shape a greener, more resilient Malaysia – one development, one partnership and one SME at a time.
“True sustainability is built through partnership,” says Chai.
