Its minister, Nga Kor Ming, said the ministry is committed to ensuring that all 156 local councils take proactive and well-planned steps to optimise energy usage across their buildings, facilities and daily operations.
The key measures recommended included setting a minimum air-conditioning temperature of 24 degrees Celsius in all local buildings and offices, as well as a gradual implementation of a selective work-from-home policy, starting Wednesday.
Nga also urged local councils to adopt daily energy-saving practices such as switching off lights, computers and electrical equipment when not in use, as well as encouraging staff to wear tropical-appropriate attire, such as batik or corporate shirts.
“Local councils are urged to expand the use of green technologies, including solar photovoltaic panels, energy-efficient LED lighting, and smart building management systems at all facilities,” he said in a statement.
Additionally, Nga called for periodic energy audits and long-term planning to identify savings opportunities in buildings, street lighting, public markets, recreational parks and other local infrastructure.
He urged local councils to promote community awareness programmes to encourage residents to practise energy conservation at home and in business premises.
However, Nga said service delivery to the people must not be compromised.
“Local authorities must ensure daily operations and counter services remain smooth and efficient to meet public needs,” he said.
He said the ministry, through the local government department, will issue a circular to all local authorities on the measures to ensure uniform and effective implementation.
“Monitoring will be carried out periodically to measure the impact of these energy-saving initiatives,” he said.
Nga also said energy-saving measures not only reduce government operating costs but also contribute to environmental sustainability and the nation’s low-carbon development goals.
Earlier today, home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the government was working to prepare the public for the possible repercussions of the war in the Middle East on the global energy supply.