Kuala lumpur: An industry player has urged the government to strengthen energy efficiency and embed sustainable solutions, such as district cooling systems (DCS), to cut emissions, lower costs, and build resilient infrastructure for the future in Budget 2026.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Engie Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd’s managing director, Wong Yin Kee, stated that the demand for cooling systems is expected to increase with the growth of data centres and advanced manufacturing. He emphasized that centralizing cooling systems is more sustainable and efficient than each building operating its own system.
“Countries at the forefront of sustainable urban development already embed DCS as a standard, and Malaysia should do the same to reduce emissions, lower energy costs, and ensure reliability,” Wong told Bernama.
Wong highlighted that Engie Services Malaysia supports businesses, cities, and industries in transitioning towards a low-carbon future by delivering energy efficiency solutions, modernizing industrial facilities, providing district cooling, and developing large-scale renewable energy projects.
He also urged the government to strengthen the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act (EECA) by setting clear, enforceable targets for large energy users. Wong noted that while the current framework is an excellent foundation, it focuses largely on reporting.
Wong suggested that the government introduce clear efficiency targets, such as a minimum chiller plant energy efficiency gains per year, to drive real progress while enabling industries to reinvest savings into growth and innovation.
“Malaysia has already taken bold steps forward. By embedding energy efficiency and district cooling into policy frameworks, we can unlock significant cost savings for businesses, reduce national carbon intensity, and build more resilient, future-ready infrastructure.
“Engie Services Malaysia stands ready to work alongside government and industry to turn these opportunities into reality,” he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is also the finance minister, is scheduled to table Budget 2026 in parliament on Oct 10.