Alam Flora targets 242 electric vehicles, equipment by year-end

PUTRAJAYA – Alam Flora Sdn Bhd is targeting to operate up to 242 units of electric vehicles (EVs) and electric-powered equipment across its concession areas by the end of this year, as part of its shift towards green technology.

The wholly-owned subsidiary of Malakoff Corporation Berhad introduced a new series of electric cleansing vehicles and equipment comprising Malaysia's first electric road sweeper, electric road maintenance vehicles, electric litter collection machines, electric blowers and smart bins.

Chief executive officer Shariman Yusuf Mohamed Zain said the company has invested about RM3 million to date on the acquisition, implementation and development of EVs, electric-powered equipment and supporting technology.

"The use of these new assets not only improves operational productivity, but also helps reduce noise pollution and environmental impact, while improving the safety and comfort of frontline workers," he said at the launch of Alam Flora's electric vehicles and equipment at the Recycling Innovation Facility (FIKS) here today.

He said the electric blower produces less than 80 decibels of noise, far quieter than conventional equipment.

Shariman said a proof of concept (POC) for an electric compactor truck will begin as soon as the asset is received within one to two months. Some asset categories such as motorcycles have already gone fully electric, while the company is exploring autonomous driving technology, robotics and smart digital solutions.

"Alam Flora will build its own charging stations at our depots and study the capacity and number of chargers needed before expanding the use of electric machinery," he said.

The event also saw the launch of the Alam Flora Driving Excellence Centre (AFDEC) at FIKS, a simulator-based training facility to strengthen driver competency and safety culture.

Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) chairman Hee Loy Sian, who officiated the launch together with National Solid Waste Management Department director-general Datuk Dr Mohd Azhar Abdul Hamid, said the initiative proves the solid waste sector can lead in green technology adoption.

"I also hope this initiative becomes a benchmark for other industry players," he said.

Alam Flora is the largest concession holder under the national solid waste management privatisation programme, serving Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Pahang.