Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (Shareda) President Datuk Chua Soon Ping urged Sabah to promote renewable energy sources like solar, hydropower and biomass to reduce carbon emissions.
He said that such actions not only assist in cutting electricity bills but also contribute to lowering the carbon impact, resulting in a greener environment for future generations.
He said this, when applauding the Energy Commission of Sabah’s (ECoS) initiative to start the Grid-Connected Solar Photovoltaic System for Self-Consumption in Sabah (SELCP-PV Sabah) programme.
He praised the State Government for establishing its own Sabah Energy Commission, highlighting the significance of localised efforts over relying on Federal counterparts.
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Solar power, being a renewable energy source, contrasts with non-renewable sources like gas and diesel currently used by SESB.
“The self-metering programme aligns with common practices across our country and is a timely solution for Sabah amidst the ongoing energy and water crisis,” he said.
He said Shareda is committed to motivating its members to contribute to sustainable development through the construction of green buildings equipped with solar panels and rainwater harvesting tanks.
“In order to achieve a widespread adoption of green practices, Shareda appeals to the government to incentivise developers for green buildings and sustainable development, fostering a collective commitment towards environmental responsibility.
“The effective incentives will have a significant impact on influencing the adoption of green initiatives amongst the general household and other industrial and commercial buildings.
“Besides this, lowering the cost of adoption can also encourage the general households to participate in these initiatives. This can be done through exemption of all taxes imposed on solar panels and water tanks,” he said.
Shareda also urged the Federal Government to give exemption on all taxes imposed on solar panels and water harvesting tanks in Sabah.
He made the call in light of the recent announcement of the Service Tax in Malaysia with effect from March 1, 2024, the rate of service tax increased from six to eight per cent.
He said Shareda called on the State Government to lead by example, installing solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems in government and GLC buildings.
“Incentives for homeowners to adopt these technologies will contribute to reduced electricity and water consumption during challenging times.
“We urge the government to walk the talk and private sectors to complement the joint efforts to reduce water and electricity consumption so as to meet the shortages which we are facing right now.
Also, to take the lead to implement green practices in government, local council buildings and government-built houses.
Simple steps like installing solar panels and rainwater harvesting tanks will have a significant impact on the environment in the long run,” he said.
As Sabah embraces renewable energy solutions, Shareda pledged its support for initiatives that promote sustainable development and environmentally conscious practices.
The association looks forward to collaborative efforts in building a greener and more resilient future for Sabah.
