“Malaysia’s largest water services provider, Air Selangor, is one step closer to its 2030 vision of becoming Asia’s leading water services provider. “
The ACES Sustainability Rising Star Award has been conferred upon Malaysia’s largest water services provider, Pengurusan Air Selangor Sdn. Bhd. (Air Selangor). This accolade celebrates Air Selangor’s strides in water management, climate resilience, and green initiatives as it serves over 9.6 million people across Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya. Since its inception, Air Selangor has set a high standard in sustainability, integrating advanced technologies and resource-efficient practices across its 34 water treatment plants. The company’s journey to achieve Net Zero energy also aligns with Malaysia’s broader sustainable development goals, and underscores its status as a national leader in environmental responsibility.
Air Selangor’s 30-year strategic plan, coined Business Plan 30:35, entails a RM35 billion investment aimed at enhancing water supply efficiency and resilience. This commitment is backed by seven Strategic Plans & Initiatives (SPIs) addressing critical areas, from water conservation to renewable energy integration and climate adaptability. These SPIs enable Air Selangor to systematically tackle key challenges, such as non-revenue water (NRW) and carbon emissions, essential factors in mitigating climate change impacts on water resources.
One of the company’s notable goals is to reduce its NRW rate from 27.6% in 2024 to 25% by 2030. A 1% reduction translates to about 33 million litres daily—a volume that could meet the everyday needs of roughly 125,000 individuals. This focus on NRW reduction highlights Air Selangor’s dedication to optimising resources and delivering reliable water supply, while also enhancing water sustainability.
Recognising the impact of climate change on water resources, Air Selangor has taken a proactive stance, adopting innovations that strengthen climate resilience. Modern water treatment systems at its facilities help minimise chemical usage, reduce waste, and lower energy consumption. With annual electricity expenditures of approximately RM300 million for its water treatment operations, the company is implementing renewable energy solutions that could significantly reduce its carbon footprint.
A core element of Air Selangor’s sustainability strategy is its Net Zero Energy Vision, targeting the generation of 1,460 GWh of green electricity annually by 2040. Achieving this milestone would eliminate over one billion kilograms of CO2 emissions, aligning the company with global sustainability efforts and setting a benchmark for energy-efficient practices within the utility sector.
Air Selangor’s commitment also encompasses community outreach and education. The Sesama Mara initiative, meaning “Together We Move Forward,” drives the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR). This includes Box of Hope, which provides essential food supplies to more than 5,800 B40 families (those in the lowest 40% income bracket) in the region. The company has also promoted digital education for secondary students in this group through the Empowering Online Learning programme, benefiting over 400 students to date.
The Report Leaks campaign further demonstrates Air Selangor’s commitment to water conservation, encouraging customers to report water leaks via the company’s app. This initiative plays a crucial role in reducing NRW, thereby promoting efficiency and environmental stewardship. Other initiatives, such as the rainwater harvesting systems installed in the Klang and Petaling regions, reduce dependence on treated water and foster sustainable practices.
Air Selangor’s approach to sustainability is governed by rigorous standards of ethical conduct and transparency. The company follows an anti-bribery and anti-corruption framework to ensure accountability across its operations and supply chain. Additionally, it publishes annual Sustainability Reports to inform stakeholders of progress, challenges, and achievements, showcasing a commitment to both transparency and continuous improvement.
In line with its governance framework, Air Selangor tracks key performance indicators that align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. Through scenario planning, risk assessment, and continuous monitoring, the company remains responsive to emerging challenges in water sustainability, adapting its strategies to safeguard Malaysia’s water resources amid changing environmental conditions.
Winning the Sustainability Rising Star Award reaffirms Air Selangor’s status as a leader in sustainable practices within the utility sector. The company’s efforts to reduce its environmental footprint, build community resilience, and prioritise governance and transparency reflect its commitment to creating a sustainable future for Malaysia. As Air Selangor advances toward its 2030 vision of becoming Asia’s leading water services provider, this recognition serves as an inspiration to continue providing water sustainably to its customers.
