23 February 2025 – Jaya Grocer, one of Malaysia’s leading supermarket chains, has taken a bold step towards environmental sustainability by launching the country’s first net-zero supermarket in Damansara, Selangor. This pioneering initiative aims to eliminate carbon emissions, reduce food waste, and implement fully sustainable retail practices.
With Malaysia’s retail industry generating over 4 million tonnes of food waste annually, this move is a game-changer in creating a more sustainable shopping experience for consumers.
Key Sustainability Features of Jaya Grocer’s Net-Zero Supermarket
- 100% Renewable Energy Supply – The supermarket operates entirely on solar and wind energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- Zero-Food-Waste Commitment – Unsold yet edible food is donated daily to charities, while inedible waste is composted.
- Plastic-Free Shopping – Customers can bring their own containers for bulk purchases, and biodegradable packaging replaces plastic bags.
- Energy-Efficient Cooling Systems – AI-powered refrigerators automatically adjust temperatures to reduce electricity consumption.
Sustainability Initiatives & Activities
1. Smart Energy Management
- The supermarket has installed solar panels covering 80% of its rooftop, supplying clean energy.
- A real-time AI monitoring system regulates lighting and cooling, reducing energy use by 35%.
2. The “Rescue Food” Program
- Jaya Grocer partners with The Lost Food Project, donating over 500kg of food weekly to underprivileged communities.
- Surplus food that isn’t fit for human consumption is converted into organic compost.
3. Eco-Friendly Shopping Experience
- Customers are encouraged to bring their own reusable containers for dry goods, oils, and detergents.
- All checkout receipts are digital, minimizing paper waste.
Economic & Environmental Impact
- 30% reduction in carbon emissions, setting an industry benchmark.
- 20,000 kg of food waste diverted from landfills in the first six months.
- Increased demand for sustainable and locally sourced products, supporting Malaysian farmers.
Future Expansion Plans
Following its success, Jaya Grocer has announced plans to expand its net-zero model to other outlets across Malaysia by 2027.
Jaya Grocer’s net-zero supermarket is a milestone in Malaysia’s sustainability journey, proving that eco-friendly retail is both financially viable and environmentally impactful.
Source: The Lost Food Project
ESG Art Exhibition 2025: A Celebration of Environmental Awareness and Sustainability
26 April – The Department of Forestry Malaysia (JPSM) is excited to announce the ESG Art Exhibition 2025, a significant event aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and raising awareness about the importance of conservation efforts. Scheduled to take place from April 27 to April 30, 2025, at the Arrival Hall in KL Sentral, the exhibition…
China’s Industrial Journey: Lessons for Malaysia’s Economic Growth
23 April – China’s transformation from a largely agrarian economy into an industrial powerhouse offers valuable insights for Malaysia. As the country aims to strengthen its economic foundation and global competitiveness, drawing inspiration from China’s strategic approach could help guide Malaysia toward a more robust and resilient industrial future. Forward-Looking Planning and Consistent Execution China’s…
Malaysia Strengthens Sustainable Palm Oil Leadership Through New MSPO Alliance and Nestlé Partnership
22 April – Malaysia is taking bold steps to strengthen the sustainability and global credibility of its palm oil industry through a landmark collaboration between Nestlé Malaysia and the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) Certification Scheme, alongside the formation of a new multi-stakeholder alliance. The twin developments—an MoU signed by Nestlé Malaysia and MSPO, and the…
ESG Plus Awards 2025 Launched to Elevate Regional Sustainable Leadership
21 April – The ESG Plus Awards 2025 have been officially launched to recognize and celebrate exemplary leadership in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices across the Southeast Asian region. This initiative aims to spotlight organizations and leaders who are driving meaningful progress in embedding sustainability within their business models and governance structures. Purpose and…
The Unsung Heroes of ESG Reporting in Corporate Malaysia
20 April – In Malaysia’s evolving corporate landscape, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting has shifted from a box-ticking exercise to a strategic necessity. At the core of this transformation are internal auditors—often overlooked yet crucial figures—who serve as the silent guardians of ESG integrity within public-listed companies (PLCs). Internal Auditors: The ESG Sentinels Since…
Malaysia’s Commitment to Sustainable Economic Growth and ESG Integration
15 April – Malaysia is taking significant steps towards enhancing its role in ASEAN cooperation, with a focus on sustainable development and economic growth. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently highlighted the importance of boosting economic activity in Malaysia’s border areas, including the northern regions and the states of Sabah and Sarawak. This initiative aims to…
