INGENIEUR
INGENIEUR
potential design flaws that might have safety implications .
Transparency : In this age of information explosion , stakeholders demand clarity and integrity of information made available to them . Engineers , thus , need to ensure they communicate designs , impacts , risks , and benefits transparently .
Accountability : Engineering is a discipline where mistakes can have significant repercussions . Governance in engineering emphasises responsibility , ensuring designs and implementations adhere to the highest standards .
Malaysia and ASEAN in the ESG Engineering Context
In the Malaysian and the broader ASEAN scenarios , where rapid industrialisation and urbanisation are juxtaposed with rich biodiversity and cultural diversity , the role of engineers in shaping sustainable futures becomes even more critical . The Petronas Twin Towers , an architectural marvel , not only showcases engineering prowess but also embodies advanced energy and environmental design principles . Similarly , Malaysia ’ s LRT and MRT systems , while being feats of engineering , also cater to the larger societal goals of reduced traffic congestion , lower emissions , and enhanced public transport accessibility .
In essence , ESG is not a parallel track running alongside the engineering journey ; rather it is the same track on which the journey is set . It is the lens through which modern engineering must be viewed , ensuring that every brick laid , every circuit designed , and every system implemented is aligned with the broader vision of a sustainable future for all stakeholders leading to a better quality of life .
Recognising the Gaps : Opportunities for Engineers in ESG
The realm of ESG is vast , and while many companies and sectors have made strides in integrating its principles , there are still pronounced gaps that should be addressed . Recognising these gaps goes beyond pinpointing shortcomings but also uncovering opportunities where engineers can lead and innovate . Here , we will delve into these gaps , contextualising them within the Malaysian and wider ASEAN frame , and explore the potential avenues for engineers .
RAPID URBANISATION & SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE Malaysia , like much of other ASEAN member nations , is witnessing rapid urbanisation . Cities like those within Wilayah Persekutuan ( Kuala Lumpur ), Selangor , Johor and Penang are expanding at unprecedented rates . While this growth presents numerous opportunities , it also poses challenges in terms of sustainable infrastructure . The gap here is in creating sustainable urban environments that are resilient , green , and inclusive for its urban population .
Engineers can pioneer designs that optimise energy consumption , minimise waste , and incorporate green spaces . Adopting rainwater harvesting in high-rises , using solar devices and designing urban transport are some doable choices which should be made mainstream at affordable prices .
INCREASING ENVIRONMENTAL THREATS The region faces escalating environmental threats from both natural and anthropogenic causes , resulting in the escalation of disasters such as floods , landslides and biodiversity losses in both land and marine sectors .
Engineers have the expertise to design systems to cater for disaster-related events . Under normal conditions , there are numerous needs for better machinery and processes that can be developed to reduce impacts and conserve the environment . Sustainable logging machinery that reduces tree wastage or innovative irrigation systems that optimise water use for agriculture are some prime examples .
SUPPLY CHAIN COMPLEXITIES Big companies like Sime Darby and Petronas have vast and intricate supply chains . Ensuring sustainability throughout these chains , especially when dealing with suppliers from diverse geographies and regulatory environments , is challenging . At the same time , there is a need to help the SMEs as they form a vital part of the supply chain .
Engineers can develop monitoring and analytical tools that track the sustainability
12 VOL 97 JANUARY - MARCH 2024