IN an era where sustainability is no longer an option but a necessity, property developer EXAL Group is redefining the concept of green living.
At the heart of its initiatives lies the SOL Estate, a visionary residential development that embodies a harmonious balance between environmental consciousness and modern living.
By aligning its efforts with the Kuching Smart City Master Plan and targeting carbon neutrality by 2050, EXAL Group is not just building homes but cultivating a community deeply rooted in eco-conscious values.
Through innovative designs, sustainable construction methods, and a comprehensive process, EXAL is setting new standards for low-carbon living. However, the journey to achieving sustainability is not without its challenges, as the company navigates through rough waters.
At the forefront, its Managing Director, Albert Ko shares with Sarawak Tribune the insights and inner side of SOL Estate, the philosophies he follows, as well as highlighting the importance of sustainability awareness.
The Philosophy Behind Sustainability
Ingrained in him is the conviction for sustainability. Ko attributed his environmental consciousness to his upbringing in Perth, Australia.
Growing up in a country that actively encourages eco-friendly practices, Ko learned the value of caring for the planet early in life. He also uses his knowledge and experiences in constructing houses in Australia before building in Kuching, Sarawak.
“For every solar system installed in Australian homes, there will be a subsidy from the government. With this desire to gain, Australians learned this core value to be aware of the environment. Furthermore, the houses there have to be rated seven stars and above by the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme to be energy efficient.”
To add on, among the many company’s values, EXAL Group strives for win-win as they aim to align themselves with government strategies, policies and targets.
Turning Vision into Action
In 2021, the Sarawak government launched the Kuching Smart City Plan. The main goal of a smart city is to improve the quality of life for citizens while also promoting economic growth and optimising city functions. Aligned with this vision, SOL Estate targets to be a carbon neutral housing estate.
Ko, who was awarded the World Green Sustainability Leadership Excellence Award in 2023, disclosed that the materials and methods used to construct the housing estate are low carbon. SOL Estate is also Green RE certified.
“And because our company’s values are about striving to win-win, we also provide optimum amenities to assist in the community’s lifestyle, at the same time lowering carbon footprint. The designs of our homes are thoroughly planned and engineered this way.”
He also shared that the materials used to build the homes are low in volatile organic compounds and low carbon emissions too. The housing estate also emphasises on developing greeneries within its vicinity to ensure a cleaner environment.
“Our strong belief in committing to win-win isn’t always about the law and policies, but in the belief of doing the right thing,” he added.
Building a Community for the Future
Working closely with the local government, councils and communities, Ko talks about expanding SOL Estate into a full-fledged green community.
“Our definition is a continuous journey until we become carbon neutral. And this cannot be done by just the developer alone.
It has to be done as part of the community,” he said.
To support this vision, SOL Estate integrates solar systems and other sustainable innovations while fostering harmony between people and nature.
“Together we grow as a community. No one can do it alone. It has to be together, and together we can work when we are on the quest to preserve Mother Earth for the future generation. And this is my way of doing it — providing the opportunity of the community to thrive through sustainability.”
