EE CHALLENGE RECORDS ENERGY SAVING OF OVER RM900,000 SINCE 2014 - FADILLAH

PUTRAJAYA,  Nov 20 (Bernama) -- The Energy Efficiency Challenge (EE Challenge) has made a significant impact in promoting prudent energy use, successfully saving 1,701,055 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy, equivalent to RM900,841, over its 12-year implementation from 2014 to 2025.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, said the programme’s success also helped prevent 1,316 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions during the same period.

“This reduction is equivalent to the growth of more than 54,850 trees over 10 years. This achievement shows that consistent small efforts can create a big impact,” he said at the EE Challenge 2025 prize-giving ceremony today.

Fadillah said this year’s EE Challenge recorded more than double the savings achieved in 2024, with energy savings of 133,030 kWh, or RM60,395.

He said the EE Challenge is part of the Malaysia Energy Literacy Programme (MELP), a national energy literacy initiative aimed at building an energy-savvy society through edutainment activities and interactive learning.

The national programme, he added, will be expanded comprehensively beginning next year, including through content integration into the Malaysian Digital Education Learning Initiative (DELIMa) platform under the Ministry of Education (MOE).

Additionally, the programme will be broadened through state-level carnivals to give communities the opportunity to participate in various energy education–based activities and competitions.

“This step is crucial in shaping an energy-literate society capable of making smart energy consumption decisions,” he said.

Fadillah stressed that energy efficiency does not rely solely on technological advancements but begins with personal attitude, discipline and awareness, especially among the young generation.

He emphasised that energy-efficient habits are cultivated through small daily choices, such as turning off unused lights, avoiding waste and valuing available resources.

“Energy efficiency, disciplined consumption and care for the environment are part of that kindness. It is not merely about technology or policy, but a reflection of our morals, wisdom and our responsibility as stewards of the earth,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Hang Kasturi, Melaka, was named the Most Energy-Efficient School, emerging as the top secondary school nationwide in fostering a culture of energy efficiency.

The school won first place in the prestigious category, taking home a plaque, RM15,000 in cash and a certificate of achievement.

Second place went to SMK (P) Sultan Ibrahim, Johor, with a prize of RM12,000, while third place went to SMK Kerteh, Terengganu, which received RM10,000.

-- BERNAMA