KUCHING: Sixteen projects from Sarawak companies and organisations have earned recognition as finalists in the 2025 JCI Malaysia Sustainable Development Awards (JCIM SDA).
Deputy Minister of Energy and Environmental Sustainability, Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni, said the achievement was significant, reflecting months and even years of dedication, innovation, and goal-oriented actions.
“You are proof that progress can be achieved when we combine passion with perseverance,” he said at the JCIM SDA 2025 Finalists press conference today at the Borneo Cultural Museum Auditorium.
Dr Hazland noted that hosting the JCIM SDA in Sarawak aligned with the state’s focus on sustainability and renewable energy, which not only contributes to climate change mitigation but also creates new economic opportunities.
He added that this year’s theme, ‘Local Action, Global Impact’, reflected how real change starts with individuals willing to take the first step, challenge norms, and lead with heart.
“This effort is also in line with the implementation of the Sarawak Sustainability Master Plan 2030 and the Sarawak Hydrogen Economy Roadmap which require active involvement from communities, businesses and change agents,” he said.
He also praised JCI Malaysia and JCI Kuching for providing a platform that celebrates achievements and encourages collaboration across sectors, generations, and regions.
“It is a catalyst for those already on the sustainability path to strive higher, and a motivation for others to begin their journey.
“To all 30 finalists, your journey does not end here because whether you win or not, this recognition should be a new energy to continue innovating, lead with integrity and leave a sustainable legacy for future generations,” he said.
Looking ahead, Dr Hazland urged JCI to focus on three mega trends: climate change, economic uncertainty, and the risk of pandemics or biological warfare.
He also suggested that competitions like JCIM SDA be enhanced with evaluations based on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) metrics to increase their relevance and impact.
“The environmental competition in Sarawak, the Premier Sarawak Environmental Award (PSEA), should also be used as a reference,” he said.
Among the 16 Sarawak projects named finalists are Safewater Asia Sdn Bhd, Yong Yu Resources Sdn Bhd, JCI Riam, and Sibu Municipal Council.
Others include JCI Jalan Tanjung Kidurong, Champspeak (Champs Education), Kuching South City Council, Nature Resource Solutions (NRS) and Kuching Urban Farming (KUF) in collaboration with Kuching South City Council.
Also listed are Borsa Food Sdn Bhd (YourgutBB Kuching), Timuran Kembangan Sdn Bhd, Kuching Performing Arts Association, Layar Education Development Committee, Angkatan Zaman Mansang (AZAM) Sarawak, Kuching Wind Orchestra Association, Taka Patisserie, and The Ranee Sdn Bhd.
