DRB-HICOM Berhad is one of Malaysia’s largest and most diversified conglomerates, with interests spanning the automotive, aerospace and defence, postal, banking, services, and property sectors. Sustainability is a core focus for the Group, driven by its vision to lead in sustainable practices and meet national environmental standards. A dedicated Board Risk and Sustainability Committee oversees the Group’s sustainability agenda, ensuring alignment with its policy framework that fosters long-term value creation.
Environmental Stewardship
Committed to environmental stewardship, DRB-HICOM integrates sustainability principles across all its operations, subsidiaries, and supply chains. Its Sustainability Policy and Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) Policy outline key priorities, including resource efficiency, carbon footprint reduction, waste and effluent management, and the promotion of a circular economy. Suppliers are also held to high standards through the Group’s Vendor Code of Conduct and Sustainable Procurement Policy.
Renewable Energy Initiatives
As an automotive conglomerate operating in an energy-intensive industry, DRB-HICOM recognizes its responsibility to reduce its environmental impact. In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and government initiatives, the Group has invested in key energy-saving programs, water conservation efforts, and carbon management strategies.
One of its most significant initiatives is the adoption of renewable energy solutions. In 2020, DRB-HICOM launched a pilot project for solar energy, with an initial capacity of 14 MWp from subsidiaries PROTON (12 MWp) and Composites Technology Research Malaysia (CTRM) (2 MWp). The success of this initiative led to the expansion of the Solar PV project across eight locations, increasing total solar capacity to nearly 30 MWp by the end of 2021. By the third quarter of 2021, the Group had achieved an impressive 33.2 million kilowatt hours in energy savings.
Waste and Water Management
Beyond energy efficiency, DRB-HICOM is actively working to minimize waste through recycling, remanufacturing, and recovery programs. The Group has progressively reduced landfill waste by implementing various recycling activities and installing food composting machines to encourage sustainable waste management among employees and stakeholders.
Water conservation is another priority, with the Group implementing wastewater recycling systems and controlled groundwater withdrawal to promote responsible water consumption. Effluent discharge from manufacturing operations is closely monitored to ensure full compliance with statutory environmental regulations.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Business
The sustainability journey at DRB-HICOM demonstrates a steadfast commitment to creating a greener future. Through its strategic investments in renewable energy, waste reduction, and water conservation, the Group is not only meeting sustainability targets but also setting a benchmark for responsible business practices in Malaysia.
