Representational image. Credit: Canva

A major international renewable energy collaboration was announced at Expo 2025 Osaka, with Malaysia’s Solarvest Holdings Berhad, HSS Engineering Sdn. Bhd., and Japan’s Shizen Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. unveiling a new solar power project under a joint venture named SM01 Sdn. Bhd.

The 29.99 MWac solar project, to be developed in Gurun, Kedah, carries an estimated investment value of RM142 million and is expected to offset over 1.1 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide over its operational lifespan.

The initiative was facilitated by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) under the government’s Green Investment initiative. The project is seen as a significant step in Malaysia’s efforts to attract foreign investment in its green energy sector and to advance its National Energy Transition Roadmap.

Speaking at the launch, MIDA Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Investment Promotion and Facilitation, Sivasuriyamoorthy Sundara Raja, said the project reflects Malaysia’s strategy to foster sustainable development through international collaboration.

“This partnership exemplifies Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable development and our position as a prime destination for green investments in the region,” he said. “The SM01 project aligns perfectly with our National Energy Transition Roadmap and demonstrates how international collaboration can accelerate our journey towards a low-carbon future.”

The ownership of SM01 Sdn. Bhd. is equally shared among Shizen Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., Solarvest Asset Management Sdn. Bhd., and HSS Engineering Sdn. Bhd. Shizen Malaysia is a subsidiary of Japan’s Shizen Energy Inc., bringing international expertise in renewable energy development.

Solarvest Executive Director and Group CEO Davis Chong said the MIDA approval is a strong vote of confidence in the company’s clean energy capabilities.

“This incentive boosts the financial sustainability of the SM01 project and demonstrates the value of international collaboration, particularly with our esteemed Japanese partner, Shizen,” he said.

Shizen Malaysia CEO Reza Ikram noted that Malaysia’s stable economy and green policies made it an attractive destination for clean energy investment.

“Our collaboration with renowned Malaysian local partners such as Solarvest and HSS further reinforces our trust in Malaysia’s green investment ecosystem,” said Reza.

HSS Engineers Berhad Executive Vice Chairman and Acting Group CEO Tan Sri Ir. Kuna Sittampalam added that the company is committed to delivering high-impact infrastructure to support Malaysia’s sustainability goals.

“We welcome the government’s support in the form of the incentive, which enhances the financial viability of the SM01 project,” he said.

The announcement was made at the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025, themed “Weaving a Future in Harmony.” The pavilion highlights Malaysia’s ambitions as a regional hub for sustainable investment and innovation, especially in sectors like green technology and renewable energy.

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