Newsletter Q2 2015 - OurSphere
Transcription
Newsletter Q2 2015 - OurSphere
2 nd QUARTER 2015 Q2 2015 CEO's MESSAGE "It is the set of the sails, not the direction of the wind, that determines which way we will go." - Jim Rohn The quote succinctly captures the demands of an ever changing landscape around us, both in terms of our mind-set and commitment to success. With the right approach, we can turn every challenge into a new opportunity. At GreenTech Malaysia, we have witnessed several changes in the organisation in terms of our priorities (flagships), people (new skills) and processes (effectiveness). One of the most significant change has been our shift from being a not-for-profitorganisation to exploring commercial ventures, which demands a mind-set change across the organisation. As a business entity, we will now have to embrace a sense of urgency and adopt a culture where maximising business opportunities is paramount. As we usher in these changes, we warmly welcome Tan Sri Peter Chin Fah Kui, our new Chairman, who takes over the helm from Dato’ Paduka (Dr.) Ir. Hj. Keizrul bin Abdullah. On behalf of everyone at GreenTech Malaysia, I extend our sincerest gratitude to Dato' Keizrul for his able guidance throughout his tenure and we wish him all the very best in his future endeavours. In the recently announced 11th Malaysia Plan, the government has reiterated its commitment to sustainable socio-economic growth in identifying “Green Growth” as a key strategic thrust. With this, our mandate to push the green agenda will be drawn into more focus. Now, more than ever, we need to strategise on how best to amplify our current efforts to grow the green economy through sustainable practices and green developments. Some examples of our focused actions to drive business, are the recent Electric Mobility (EM) initiatives. This commenced with raising awareness and understanding on the potential of electric vehicles by fast tracking the Electric Mobility Blueprint; this document is currently awaiting approval from the Cabinet and will be officially launched later in the year. Further to this, to encourage dialogue and participation from various Government agencies, industry players and media, the team organised Charge Up 1.0. We are also advancing in our ambitious efforts to create an eco-friendly Government fleet by deploying 120 Tesla Model S 75D and 85 later this year. Industry leaders across the globe have acknowledged the disruptive qualities of EM. Even in the face of doubt and apprehension from certain quarters, we need to be firm in our direction and be tenacious in our efforts to drive the necessary changes - whether it is to change the mind-sets of people GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 or to influence governmental policies. This is a responsibility we need to shoulder as the nation’s green catalyst. Thus far, these efforts have been effective with the buzz surrounding EM in Malaysia being at an all-time high. Now is the time to capitalise on this excitement and deliver tangible results through our commercial ventures. We must replicate this commitment and momentum across all our flagships. In June, we submitted the Green Technology Master Plan (GTMP) to the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water (KeTTHA) for their review before it is submitted to the Cabinet for approval. I would like to thank everyone for working together in preparing the GTMP. With regards to our talent pool, GreenTech Malaysia has added to the talent and skills required to lead green technology in Malaysia. I welcome the new staff to our family, and trust everyone will support each other as we go forward to champion the green agenda. To borrow from an old sailing adage, while the pessimist complains about the wind and the optimist expects it to change, the realist adjusts the sails. Let us collectively adjust our sails to the changing winds and accelerate towards the nation’s green goals. Sincerely, Ir. Ahmad Hadri Haris PAGE 1 Q2 2015 Unleashing our full potential "I am certain that, together, we can further develop the green technology sector to become an integral part of Malaysia’s socioeconomic growth." Tan Sri Peter Chin Fah Kui, Chairman Malaysia has come a long way since identifying green technology as a strategic engine for growth and consequently introducing the National Green Technology Policy 2009. The very first Minister to helm the then newly-formed Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water (KeTTHA), Tan Sri Peter Chin, attributes the success of the Ministry to the belief that everyone wants a better future where we can prosper economically without jeopardising the environment. On the green technology front, Tan Sri Peter Chin has been instrumental in the holistic development of the country’s green technology sector, including the passing of key green policies, formulation of various tax incentives to promote the renewable energy sector and the establishment of the Sustainable Energy Development Authority. Following his political tenure, Tan Sri Peter Chin graciously accepted the role of GreenTech Malaysia’s Special Advisor in November 2013, providing invaluable insights to lead the team forward. When it was time to choose the next Chairman, Tan Sri Peter Chin became the natural choice for both KeTTHA and GreenTech Malaysia’s Board of Directors. He was officially appointed as Chairman on 7th April 2015. The Green Pulse team sat down with Tan Sri Peter Chin to learn more about his aspirations for the company and our people. “I will be working closely to integrate the Government’s mandate with GreenTech Malaysia’s flagships, aligning the Board of Directors and ensuring the Management and staff are equipped to carry forward the national green agenda,” Tan Sri Peter Chin shared. “I am certain that, together, we can further develop the green technology sector to become an integral part of Malaysia’s socio-economic growth,” he added. Tan Sri Peter Chin’s current focus is to ensure that the organisation’s programmes are in line with the Government’s vision, especially in materialising the Green Growth thrust of the 11th Malaysia Plan. The clear mandate of the Government, which GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 aims to enable a thriving environment for green growth, is a strong signal that green technology must integrate with economic development going forward. Towards this end, GreenTech Malaysia has put forward a proposal for the Cabinet’s consideration, including game-changing programmes which have been strategically designed to bring about impactful benefits not just to the nation’s environment and economy, but also to the ‘man on the street’. “It would be far-fetched to try to cover all aspects of green technology as the sector itself cuts aross various industries and encompasses all facets of life. We have to be strategic in what we do and therefore, we have identified what we have termed as the “Enablers” and their complementing “Green Catalyst Projects” which target the five key sectors outlined in the National Green Technology Policy, namely Energy, Transport, Building, Waste and Water Management,” he explained. “I truly believe that these projects have tremendous potential to unlock Malaysia’s green economy and will make a strong case for budget PAGE 2 Q2 2015 "Is this the kind of progress we want to leave behind for our children and grandchildren?" consideration. Most importantly, these projects would have a ‘trickle-down’ effect to greatly benefit all Malaysians at the end of the day,” he added. The incoming Chairman views change in mind-set as critical for the organisation to step up its game. He believes that the key to unlocking a more dynamic green technology sector is to continuously engage with the relevant stakeholders and drive greater synergies between all parties. As various government departments, agencies, private sector and the public at large are involved in creating a green Malaysia, he expressed the need for GreenTech Malaysia to be able to bring together these diverse groups to work towards a collective objective. He cited the recent Electric Mobility Flagship’s Charge Up 1.0 engagement session as a good example that clearly distinguished us from just being project planners and implementers, to a team that is able to think critically on how best to realise these projects and efficiently engage with stakeholders to secure their buy-in. “Although we have come a long way, there is much more to be done. We need to look outside of Malaysia and emulate the progressive countries that are actively exploring new and innovative ways to mitigate climate change,” Tan Sri Peter Chin commented. Tan Sri Peter Chin’s passion for the environment was noticeably evident during the brief hour of speaking with him. Growing up in Kuching where one could breathe fresh air, swim in crystal clear rivers and eat fruits right off the tree, gave him a sense on how the world should be – clean and green. The years of rapid development and industrialisation have been anything but clean and green and herein lies the irony of progress. Progress could bring about better livelihoods but it could also invite unthinkable environmental calamities as the world faces today. Voicing his concern, Tan Sri Peter Chin remarked, “Is this the kind of progress we want to leave behind for our children and grandchildren? Sometimes, not everything we do in the name of progress is good. The key is to balance progress with sustainable development.” “We at GreenTech Malaysia have been assigned the task to do something good for the country and our fellow citizens. That is why I feel it is very important that each one of us continues to remind ourselves of the significant role we play and that we must take pride in our work. No matter how big or small the role is, we form the cogs that keep the green wheel running smoothly. And only together as a team, can we bring about a sustainable Malaysia,” he added. If there is one piece of advice that Tan Sri Peter Chin wishes to share with all of us, it is to have self-belief – belief in ourselves and belief in what we do. This is indeed sound advice to follow; afterall, it is self-belief that has brought Tan Sri Peter Chin this far. “It is my hope that in my new role as the Chairman, I would be able to nurture and unleash the full potential of GreenTech Malaysia and its people. I am confident that once the Green Catalyst Projects materialise, Malaysia will be known as a country that has pushed for a green economy – one that would allow green technology to further develop and attract investors into the country.” “Ultimately, the goal is for Malaysia to be known as the Green Technology hub in the region,” he concluded. Tan Sri Peter Chin has great aspirations for all of us and is ever-willing to guide us as we set forth to take GreenTech Malaysia to greater heights. Let us heed by his able guidance and have the selfbelief to unleash our full potential. GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 Tan Sri Peter Chin’s past responsibilities prior to joining GreenTech Malaysia include: •Former Minister Energy, Green Technology and Water (KeTTHA) •Member of Parliament for Lambir and Miri constituencies in Sarawak between 1986 and 2013 •Chairman for the Miri Municipal Council in 1984 During his tenure as the Minister of KeTTHA, Tan Sri Peter Chin oversaw the implementation of a range of key green policies including the National Green Technology Policy 2009 as well as the Renewable Energy Policy and Action Plan 2010. He also held various senior appointments in the Malaysian Government administration in his line of work, including: •Federal Minister, Federal Deputy Minister and Federal Parliamentary Secretary for KeTTHA •Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities •Ministry of Housing and Local Government •Ministry of Science, Technology and the Environment •Ministry of Welfare Services A graduate in Law, Tan Sri Peter Chin is also a member of Gray’s Inn, London and had embarked on his law practice in Miri, Sarawak, in 1972. PAGE 3 Q2 2015 In the media GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 4 Q2 2015 organisation chart GreenTech Malaysia's organisation chart As we move from a non-profit organisation to one exploring commercial ventures, we have developed a streamlined and purpose driven organisation structure to match GreenTech Malaysia's talent to our commercial objectives As the above diagram depicts, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ir. Ahmad Hadri provides strategic direction and leadership; he is assisted by Chief Financial Officer, Woon Foo Wen who heads our Commercial arm, Green Ventures. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer are the four Vice Presidents under the Development division. In line with the shift in focus of the corporation, Green Ventures was developed to facilitate our new businesses, commercial and profitmaking endeavours. It is important to note that as we set up a subsidiary specifically for our profit-making ventures, the four Vice Presidents and their respective teams under the Development division will actively contribute business ideas to Green Ventures. At the same time, the Development division’s focus will remain on the progression of current projects that aim to realise the national green technology agenda through our four main flagships, namely, Green Malaysia Plan, Green Procurement, Electric Mobility and Sustainable Living. GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 are you curious to know what happens in a leadership meeting? The leadership team would like to share the agenda of the weekly leadership meetings in order to encourage suggestions and feedback from all levels. Week 1: Organisational Development; discussions revolve around our talent pool Week 2: Finance & commercial ventures Week 3: Development Projects Week 4: Strategy & Communications Have bright ideas on new ventures, business opportunities and/or how to make our organisation more exciting? Drop a note at the suggestion box at the reception area! PAGE 5 Q2 2015 CHARGE UP 1.0 [From Left] Mohamed Azrin Mohamed Ali, VP of Green Catalyst, GreenTech Malaysia; Paul Wong Kok Kiong, Under Secretary of Green Technology Policy Division, KeTTHA; Ir. Ahmad Hadri Haris, CEO, GreenTech Malaysia; Eric Feunteun, Electric Vehicle Global Program Director, Renault; Mohd Nazmi Mohd Nur, Manager, Strategic Research, Malaysian Automotive Institute As part of the Electric Mobility flagship, “Charge Up 1.0”, GreenTech Malaysia’s first stakeholder engagement of the year, was held on 12th May at Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club. The industry wide dialogue which aimed to highlight the immense potential of the electric vehicle (EV) industry in Malaysia and the prerequisites to make it a socioeconomic success was well attended. A total of 80 delegates were present, including representatives from Renault, BMW Malaysia, Tan Chong (Motors) Group, Mercedes Benz Malaysia, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor, Volvo Car Malaysia, Proton, Eclimo, CMS Consortium, BYD Auto, AMDAC, Prasarana Integrated Development, Tenaga Nasional Berhad and Malaysian Automotive Institute (MAI). The engagement session also included two panel discussions chaired by Ir. Ahmad Hadri Haris, with representatives from the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water (KeTTHA), Renault and MAI. The open dialogue encouraged participants to voice their views and their concerns on the adoption of EVs in the Malaysian setting. There was a strong call from the majority of attendees for steps to be taken to increase the affordability and options of EVs, in order to establish EVs as a key player in the Malaysian automotive marketplace; in turn leading to longterm economic gains for the country. Alan Harris Eric Feunteun, “It has been proven in the past that incentives help in the early adoption of new technologies. We saw this with the introduction of hybrid technology in the Malaysian automotive industry. We, at BMW Group Malaysia, believe that incentives for imported electric vehicles (EVs) are imperative to create a demand as well as to enable automakers here to build expertise in working with EVs which is a new leap in automotive technology.” “Any country that wants to create a fertile environment for the rollout of EVs must make available incentives and exemptions to offset the financial cost of adoption. Government incentives are particularly critical for EVs before momentum kicks in through word of mouth and broader social acceptance. Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer BMW Group Malaysia “We would recommend that the Malaysian government investigate implementing incentives for imported EVs for up to five years to create public demand for EVs as well as to enable automakers here to build capabilities and expertise for greater commitment to set up manufacturing or locally assembly here in Malaysia.” GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 Electric Vehicle Global Program Director Renault Today’s engagement session with key stakeholders is indeed an important step forward in establishing a steady foundation for a flourishing EV economy. Malaysia now has an opportunity to be the Norway of SouthEast Asia and Renault looks forward to offering our expertise towards this collective objective." PAGE 6 Q2 2015 CHARGE UP 1.0 [con't] Some comments from media participants include: “We must congratulate the Malaysian government for advocating EVs in the National Automotive Policy. As far as I know, there are only two countries that have identified EVs as a national automotive priority. However, it's time for Malaysia to stop choosing corporations to champion. Since it has identified EV's as the national automotive policy, then it should support the whole EV sector. The NAP is unrealistic when it demands auto makers to invest in EV production before there is an EV market. The automakers must first know what the domestic demand is before they decide to invest. We're lucky because Malaysians love cars and when there is a tax incentive, there is traction. Look at the Toyota Prius. That is a good example. When the tax was 50%, less than a hundred units were sold. When the government allowed full tax exemption, more than 5,000 units were sold in a year.” Yamin Vong, Editor, Cars Bikes and Trucks, New Sunday Times “Charge Up 1.0 session was my first stakeholder engagement session on electric mobility in Malaysia. By and large, the discussion among stakeholders seemed to provide a platform for an honest discussion on both concerns and aspirations for electric mobility in the country. Some existing, long-standing issues and concerns which are already common knowledge among industry experts and observers alike, were raised during this forum including the absence of incentives for purchase of EVs. I sincerely hope that at the next round of stakeholder consultation for e-mobility in Malaysia, additional relevant policymakers and regulators will avail themselves for a discussion that will bring to fruition some concrete solutions that will be a catalyst for e-mobility in Malaysia to move forward more effectively.” Linda Archibald, Senior Writer, The Malaysian Reserve “While GreenTech Malaysia is working hard to promote the Malaysian EV market, I strongly think that more effort is necessary and the Ministry needs to play a part in educating the public. Unlike hybrid vehicles, the current EV technology does not allow you to keep your current driving habits. A change of habit requires a strong stimulus and having the cheapest fuel price in the region seriously makes the change a bigger task. The price of EV itself is not cheap and even without tax and duties, the prices are usually double of an equivalent internal combustion engine vehicle. That is already a big hurdle because Malaysians right now have to stretch their car loans up to nine years. Bear in mind, the average vehicle financing in most countries is up to five years only and our nine-year plan is not seen as a smart move because cars are built to last for only five or six years before the parts start to fail. I am suggesting a bigger carrot needs to be dangled here. A rebate for their income tax in support of their purchase for example, or a subsidised price of EVs." Hezeri Samsuri, Editor, Top Gear GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 7 Q2 2015 infographic: electric mobility Electric Mobility has gained much momentum in the recent months, it is of utmost importance for us to be fully aware of the EV scene, globally and locally. We have compiled two handy inforgraphics that will help get you up to speed! GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 8 Q2 2015 infographic: electric mobility Look forward to more interesting infographics in the coming issues of Green Pulse, and by all means, share the knowledge around. GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 9 Q2 2015 17th Annual general meeting Tan Sri Peter Chin Fah Kui chairing GreenTech Malaysia's 17th Annual General Meeting Green technology sector's contribution to GDP was 0.8%, or RM 7.9 billion in 2014 What is an AGM? An Annual General Meeting (AGM) is the mandatory, public yearly gathering of a company's executives, directors and interested shareholders. The 17th Annual General Meeting of GreenTech Malaysia, chaired by the Chairman, Tan Sri Peter Chin Fah Kui, was held on 11th June 2015 at the corporate office. Amongst those present were the Company’s Board of Directors, the CEO, leadership team and corporate members. During the meeting, all the members unanimously accepted the appointment of Tan Sri Peter Chin and Datuk Harjeet Singh a/l Hardev Singh, Deputy Secretary General of Green Technology and Water, to the Board. All those present also received copies of the 2014 Annual Report which reviewed the business performance and fiscal information of the company for past year. The Chairman and the CEO also shared the strategic direction for the company and some of the key initiatives to strengthen GreenTech Malaysia’s position as the nation’s green catalyst. At the AGM, the CEO and directors typically address the Board and the stakeholders, while also presenting the company’s Annual Report. Shareholders with voting rights vote on current issues, such as appointments to the company's Board of Directors, executive compensation, dividend payments and auditors. Shareholders who do not attend the meeting in person are asked to vote by proxy, which in certain companies can be done online or by mail. Read more: http://bit.y/1xD5hhM. Snapshot of the GEO Building main entrance; promoting IGEM 2015 GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 10 Q2 2015 Greentech Study excusrions [From left to right] Nur Ayuni Zolkifli, Mohd Nizam Mohd Khir, Ir. Ahmad Hadri Haris, Tn Syed Ahmad Syed Mustafa, Asdirhyme Abdul Rasib and Norazah Mohd Ramli The Green Investment Financing Forum (GIFF) promotes dialogue and enhances understanding between countries and institutions on new developments relating to green investment banks. The GIFF also highlights promising investment channels with a special focus on green bonds and derisking approaches to facilitate green infrastructure investment by institutional investors in The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, emerging economies and developing countries. The 2nd OECD GIFF was held on 19th and 20th May in Paris, France and is a precursor to COP 21. Malaysia was among the 34 countries that attended the recent GIFF with GreenTech Malaysia organising the mission for representatives from the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water (KeTTHA), the Ministry of Finance and Bank Negara Malaysia. The first day started off with a keynote address by the former VP of United States, Al Gore, before proceeding to other topics including: investment needs and risk return profiles for sustainable energy, the inclusion of green investments in government policies and the role of public financial institutions in enhancing the flow of private green investments from developed countries to emerging economies and developing countries. The second day of the Forum featured institutional investor roundtable on sustainable energy financing, focusing on whether the financial system and markets align with low-carbon transitions. The discussion revolved around the need to devise an instrument to increase the flow of private capital, the need for governments to relook at their green policies to draw private capital to fund green activities and the political will to do so. In drawing up policies, it was also highlighted that there is no “one size fits all” solution as each country has different challenges and resources. In summary, it was concluded that there is a need for reforms in the financial system given that the current financial system is not aligned with low carbon transition. NORHASLIZA FOR IVLP GreenTech Malaysia’s very own Nor Norhasliza Binti Mokhtar, VP of Green Econometrics was selected by the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur to participate in the world’s leading professional exchange programme. The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is organised by the Office of International Visitors in the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State. The prestigious IVLP is currently in its 74th year. Each year, nearly 5,000 international professionals travel to the U.S. for the programme; more than 200,000 international professionals have engaged with Americans through the IVLP, including more than 335 current, former Chiefs of State and Heads of Government. Look out for Norhasliza’s feature on the IVLP in the forthcoming edition of Green Pulse. The European Investment Bank also presented their financing mechanisms and experiences with various green banks and green investment institutions from Japan, Australia, United States, United Kingdom and Germany. Some of the key points from the presentations included the importance of leveraging private funds in view of the limited public sources and that these funds could be derived through public private partnerships and issuance of green bonds. Green banks would be in a better position to support green projects as they offer longer term loans with fixed interest rates and would not affect the government’s budget as they should be self-sustainable. Speaking on his experience at the forum, Tn Syed Ahmad Syed Mustafa, Vice President of Green Growth said, “The forum proved to be exceedingly insightful, GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 offering many ideas to emulate in a Malaysian context. We will use the knowledge gained to strategically develop a system to best suit Malaysia’s financial climate with the aim of transforming our financial system into one which is capable of stimulating growth in our nation’s green technology industry.” PAGE 11 Q2 2015 myhijau youth camp GreenTech Malaysia jointly organised the 7th MyHIJAU Youth Camp with Lincoln Centre on 1st June in conjunction with the Green Awareness Day for Melaka State Library. The event was graced by Y.A.B. Datuk Seri Ir. Hj. Idris Bin Hj. Haron, Chief Minister of Melaka, Joseph Y. Yun, United States Ambassador to Malaysia and Y.B. Datuk Hj. Amiruddin Bin Hj. Yusof, Chairman of Perbadanan Perpustakaan Awam Melaka. Students showing off their desisgns of Green Innovation, who showed the students the many ways we can integrate more sustainable habits into our daily lives. Through a detailed demonstration, the students also learnt how to construct a do-it-yourself solar lamp. The highlight of the one-day camp for the participants was the MyHIJAU Mini Explorace where the students were grouped into teams and had to use their knowledge from the earlier sessions to complete a unique set of challenges to collect points and win the race. Team ‘Green Star World’ emerged as winners having successfully managing to complete all the required tasks in under one hour. Students participating in the various activities of the MyHIJAU Mini Explorace Over 50 secondary school students together with a trainer and a representative from GreenTech Malaysia gathered at the Melaka State Library for a day of exploring and learning. The students began the camp with an ice breaking session before being introduced to the MyHIJAU Lifestyle. Following a video about the MyHIJAU Mindset, the trainer spoke to the students on the dangers of global warming and its effect on our wellbeing. This was followed by a presentation on Green Practices led by Wan Faizal, VP The students left with a newfound appreciation for the environment and a drive to incorporate green habits into their daily lifestyles. The one-day camp was a success as it delivered the message that going green can be both simple and inexpensive, and reflected GreenTech Malaysia’s role in reaching out to the public through increasing awareness and encouraging green practices. Students on a mission GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 12 Q2 2015 fun days bring out team spirit Those who think that GreenTech Malaysia is “all work and no play” certainly have it all wrong. GreenTech Malaysia believes in not only working smart but also in playing hard. Having previously faced off in paintball and go karting. Our people tried our hands (and feet) at bowling and at futsal recently. Both events saw everyone spending some quality time bonding outside of the office. Ahead of time, all of GreenTech Malaysia’s staff were grouped into eight teams with each team coming up with creative names before getting down to the competition at hand - we had team Psycho Bear, Lightning Bolt, CEO, LTL, KRIK KRIK, The Fantastic 8, The Green Lantern and Hot Stuff. Bowling on 26th May assembled everyone at Wangsa Bowl, IOI City Mall for the bowling showdown that would see the winners walk away with bragging rights of being GreenTech Malaysia’s Best Bowling Team as well as awards for the Best Male and Female Bowler of 2015. After hours of friendly competition, Team KRIK KRIK, were crowned the champion having amassed a grand total of 1003 points! First runnersup was Team CEO with 937 points, followed by second runners-up, Team LTL with 885 points. GreenTech Malaysia at Wangsa Bowl, IOI City Mall Sport in Bangi to compete for the title of GreenTech Malaysia’s Best Futsal Team. The round robin group stage saw bowling champions Team KRIK KRIK narrowly missing out on the coveted top two spots. Team Hot Stuff and Team CEO managed to knock out the other teams, setting-up an exciting final showdown. The match proved to be a nail biting one, with everyone’s attention locked to the pitch. Each goal was followed by roaring cheers regardless of which team scored. Team Hot Stuff bagged the first goal with a strike byRaihana's husband, Fared. Team CEO managed to pull level at the start of the second half with a goal from Sukri. However, Team Hot Stuff managed to pull off a last minute push that ended with Fared placing the ball into the back of the net to recapture their lead. The final whistle saw Team Hot Stuff being crowned the champion. Congratulations to the winners and a big thank you to the Green Community team for organising these activities. It is no surprise that the Best Male and Female Bowlers were from the winning team. Malik was named the Best Male Bowler, racking up 327 points. Meanwhile, the Best Female Bowler was Tengku Sharifah with a total score of 213 points. A big congratulations to both of them! A couple of weeks later, on 12th June, the teams faced-off again at Uptown GreenTech Malaysia at Uptown Sport in Bangi GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 13 Q2 2015 buka puasa with media Throughout the years, GreenTech Malaysia has maintained good rapport and has continuously built strong relationships with the media. This is reflected in the circle of media friends we have today. What better way to thank them than to invite them over for a Buka Puasa in conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan! The organising committee put in extra effort to carefully select the venue so as to make it central and convenient for our media friends. Carcosa Seri Negara, the exclusive heritage hotel set in a historic mansion, with its spectacular hilltop setting in central Kuala Lumpur was the selected venue. Its regal architecture and plush interiors took the guests to a bygone era of colonial luxury. The dinner featured a wide array of choices including many local Malaysian delicacies as well as a special durian bubur, which was a big hit with our guests. Amidst their hectic schedules and work arrangements, 30 of our media friends from the various leading publications made time to join us on this special occasion - our very own GreenTech Awards recipients, Che Wan Mohd Badrul Amin Che Wan Alias from Berita Harian, Linda Archibald from The Malaysian Reserve and Puteri Nur Alia Mohd Jasmin from RTM were amongst those present. Our leadership team and staff were joined by members of our Board of Directors; Datuk PK Poh, Datuk Wira Jalilah Baba and Dr. Theng Lee Chong, at the spacious Ledang Room which housed the close to 60 attendees comfortably. Upon registration, all guests were ushered to their respective tables; Che Wan, Afiq Hanif (Harian Metro) and Fuad Yahya (Bernama) were excited to be seated with GreenTech Malaysia’s Ambassador Maya Karin, who was also present for the dinner occasion. Being the gracious GreenTech Ambassador and co-host of the table, Maya shared her green aspirations and her ideas for new business ventures with the media. [From left to right] Mohamed Azrin Mohamed Ali, VP of Green Catalyst; Che Wan Mohd Badrul Amin Che Wan Alias, Berita Harian; Hafiz Ithnin, Harian Metro; Puteri Nur Alia Mohd Jasmin and Mohd Faris Izzat Shahabudin, RTM Guest enjoying the food prepared by chefs at Carcosa Seri Negara During dinner, Ir. Ahmad Hadri remarked, “The media is an important bridge between any corporation and the public, helping to make sure our voice is heard, and helping to spread the word on green technology and sustainable practices. On behalf of GreenTech Malaysia, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who made time to attend this dinner with us today and for your continued support.” Towards the end of the dinner, Hadri and Maya readily obliged requests for an impromptu interview. The Buka Puasa was a very warm and cosy gathering with a good turn out from our media friends, many of whom stayed till the very end of the evening exchanging stories. Ir. Ahmad Hadri and Maya Karin all smiles for the camera as they take questions from the media GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 14 Q2 2015 Getting To Know Your Colleagues What do you want to be called, i.e., nicknames or short forms? “To take a selfie next to the Eiffel Tower.” My name is Kavita, I am a Senior Executive HP in the Green Community division. Kavita or Kavi I spend my time listening to good music and catching up with friends. Where did you study and which field of study did you major in? What green initiatives do you practise personally, either at home or at work? I studied Biotechnology at University Malaya and I have a Master’s degree in Human Resource Administration from UPM. I recycle. At home, we have different dust bins for “plastics, paper and bottles”. When did you start working with GreenTech Malaysia? 6th April 2015 To take a selfie next to the Eiffel Tower. Books - I love reading and my motivator is Robin Sharma, my inspiration and all-time favourite. I have had several nicknames including Aman and Aji, even “KGB”. Previously at work, I’ve been called Kamal/Kamar/ Kamarad/Dato Zack, you can just call me Kamar here. Where did you study and which field of study did you major in? My name is Kamaradzaman Mohd Bakri, I am a Senior Associate with the Green Growth division. Share with us an item on your bucket list. What/Who do you turn to for motivation/inspiration? What do you want to be called, i.e., nicknames or short forms? “To start my own firm/ company/project.” How do you spend your free time? I have a Bachelor of Economics from UKM (Public Policy) and a Diploma in Accounting (PUO). How do you spend your free time? I started golfing, and I like it. Sometimes I go for karaoke. What green initiatives do you practise personally, either at home or at work? I recycle newspapers and plastic packaging. Share with us an item on your bucket list. To start my own firm/company/project. When did you start working with GreenTech Malaysia? 27th April 2015 What/Who do you turn to for motivation/inspiration? My secondary school friends. GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 15 Q2 2015 Getting To Know Your Colleagues What do you want to be called, i.e., nicknames or short forms? Ayman Reading literature, going to the gym and karaoke. Where did you study and which field of study did you major in? What green initiatives do you practise personally, either at home or at work? I studied International Marketing at the University of East London. 100% LED lights in my home, recycling, walking or cycling whenever I can. When did you start working with GreenTech Malaysia? 11th May 2015 “Travel the Alaskan frontier.” What/Who do you turn to for motivation/inspiration? My name is Ayman Izzaz, I am a Business Development Analyst and I am attached to the Green Catalyst division. How do you spend your free time? Share with us an item on your bucket list. Travel the Alaskan frontier. My family and friends, as each of them has a unique trait that I love and inspires me. Congratulations to our colleague Significant Other tied the knot 6th June 2015 Congratulations to the newlyweds, Nur Farhana Norafandi & Izad Fikri Paiza! Wishing you both a happily ever after! GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 16 Q2 2015 reading corner Imagine this: Going around the world, in a plane, with zero fuel. Taking a cue from the popular Jules Verne tale of Around the World in 80 Days, two Swiss explorers have embarked on a mission to circumnavigate the globe, in a plane that is powered only by the sun! Swiss explorers Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg are the founders, pilots and driving force behind Solar Impulse, the first airplane of perpetual endurance, able to fly day and night without a drop of fuel. By attempting the first round the world solar flight, they aim to demonstrate that clean technologies and renewable energies can achieve the impossible. The round the world mission took flight from Abu Dhabi on 9th March and have so far travelled a total of 10,784km. The route includes stopovers in Oman, India, Myanmar and China. The duo will then attempt to cross the Pacific Ocean via Hawaii before flying across the U.S. and over the Atlantic Ocean on their way back to Abu Dhabi. #futureisclean Follow the Solar Impulse 2 mission here: http://bit.ly/1cxhpmN. GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 “What we’ll see is something similar to what happened with cell phones versus land lines, where cell phones actually leapfrogged the land lines and there wasn’t the need to put land lines in a lot of countries.” Elon Musk CEO & Product Arhitect Tesla Motors Tesla’s Powerwall On 30th April, Elon Musk unveiled the company’s latest technological breakthrough dubbed the Powerwall, a battery that charges using electricity generated from solar panels. Musk’s new subsidiary - Tesla Energy, will manufacture the lithium-ion batteries for homes, businesses and utilities. The Powerwall comes in 10 kWh weekly cycle and 7 kWh daily cycle models. Both are guaranteed for ten years and are sufficient to power most homes. To read more about the Powerwall, click here: http://bit.ly/1DOuzKh. PAGE 17 Q2 2015 GREENTECH MALAYSIA 2015 PAGE 18