Established in 1983, Suria Capital Holdings Berhad, a Sabah-based listed company, has built a strong reputation in the maritime sector through its core businesses of port operations, bunkering services, and seaport passenger gateway. In addition to its maritime operations, the company has diversified into property development and construction, further strengthening its role as a key economic driver in Sabah.
Green Initiatives at Sabah Ports
A subsidiary of Suria Capital, Sabah Ports Sdn Bhd operates eight major ports in Sabah and has committed itself to sustainable practices through a series of green initiatives. These efforts include the installation of electrified rubber-tyred gantry cranes to reduce carbon emissions, LED lighting installations aligned with the company’s Green Port Policy for energy efficiency, and the implementation of the Autostore Terminal Operating System to minimize paper consumption. In recognition of its commitment to sustainability, Sabah Ports received the prestigious APEC Green Port Award, reinforcing its position as a regional leader in green port operations.
Environmental Conservation and Monitoring Efforts
Sabah Ports has taken significant steps in ecological conservation through projects such as seagrass transplanting to preserve marine biodiversity, mangrove restoration and rehabilitation to support coastal ecosystems, and the Environmental Monitoring Programme, which conducts bi-annual assessments on air, water, and noise quality at the ports. By adhering to the Environmental Quality Act (1974) and other relevant legislations, the company ensures that its operations remain within established environmental guidelines.
Sustainability as a Core Business Strategy
Suria Capital’s long-term Strategic Plan from 2019 to 2023 integrates sustainability at the core of its corporate directives. Through corporate social responsibility programs, the company has significantly impacted local communities, particularly underprivileged rural populations in Sabah. Its efforts in sustainability have been widely recognized, including the High Impact University–Industry Engagement Award presented by Universiti Malaysia Sabah at the Academia Industry–Community Awards in 2018. This award highlights Sabah Ports’ meaningful contributions to conservation and industry collaboration.
Driving Economic Growth While Maintaining Environmental Responsibility
Beyond its maritime operations, Suria Capital also contributes to Sabah’s economic growth through periodic and annual dividend payments to the Sabah Ports Authority. The company has diversified into property and tourism-related developments, with major projects such as the expansion of Sapangar Bay Container Port as a transshipment hub, a dedicated international cruise terminal in Kota Kinabalu, and low-density, low-rise port land development projects designed to preserve natural water features, minimize environmental impact, and maintain scenic views. Through its subsidiary SCHB Engineering, SuriaGroup is actively working with state and federal agencies to develop renewable energy projects, ensuring that sustainability remains a key pillar in its growth strategy.
A Sustainable Future for Sabah
With its steadfast commitment to green port initiatives, environmental conservation, and sustainable economic development, Suria Capital continues to pave the way for a greener maritime industry. By integrating innovative sustainability solutions, the company is positioning itself as a leader in responsible maritime operations, ensuring long-term benefits for Sabah’s economy, environment, and communities.
Shanggari Balakrishnan, Chief Executive Officer of MORS Group, stated that Sabah Ports has developed environmental initiatives like the Green Port Programme, which outlines strategies for achieving sustainable and environmentally friendly port operations. Dr. Jayanthi Desan, Lead Jury for the ACES Awards, acknowledged that as an APEC Green Port Award winner, Sabah Ports has contributed to ecological conservation through initiatives such as seagrass transplanting, mangrove restoration, and rehabilitation projects across the port locality.
