Sustainable property development: How Tropicana Corporation Berhad shapes Malaysia's green future

Of Tropicana’s many achievements, Green Building Index (GBI) ratings secured for six developments and GreenRe certification for seven projects underscores Tropicana’s dedication to environmentally conscious building designed specifically for Malaysia’s tropical climate and socioeconomic context. Both GBI and GreenRe are comprehensive rating systems and certification tools for eco-friendly buildings to evaluate projects based on energy and water efficiency, indoor environmental quality, sustainable site planning, use of materials and resources, and innovation.

Beyond green building certifications, Tropicana has implemented innovative sustainability features throughout its development. Its Lido Waterfront Boulevard project in Johor Bahru incorporates a flood mitigation system designed to ease upstream flooding and prevent pollution of local waterways. At Tropicana Heights Kajang, the company undertook an ambitious rewilding project, transforming a former golf course into a lush ecosystem that conserves over 400 native khaya, rain and flame trees.

Perhaps one of its most interesting initiatives is its dragonfly pond project at Tropicana Golf & Country Resort. Developed in collaboration with UKM researcher Associate Prof Dr Choong Chee Yen, it leverages the natural predatory instincts of dragonflies to control mosquito populations, showcasing Tropicana's dedication to sustainable pest management without resorting to chemical interventions.

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Tropicana’s sustainability journey encompasses social responsibility, too. As a community builder, social outreach is integral to Tropicana’s identity. Through the Tropicana Foundation, established in 2011, it has channelled more than RM26 million towards various causes uplifting vulnerable segments of society by partnering with various charitable and governmental organisations to achieve these aims. This commitment to social outreach aligns closely with several of the UN SDGs, particularly those focused on reducing inequalities, promoting good health and well-being, and fostering sustainable communities.

Charity begins at home, as the saying goes, and Tropicana’s commitment to its workforce also reflects its people-centric approach. Employees of Tropicana enjoy more than 11 staff benefits from insurance coverage, marriage tokens, dental, optical to health screenings.

Comprehensive employee initiatives include leadership training workshops, technical skills training, safety training, anti-bribery policies, and diversity and development programs. With 56 per cent representation of women in management and executive positions, Tropicana sets an example for gender equality in the workplace. Family-friendly policies, such as nursery rooms and parental leave, further underscore the company's commitment to fostering a supportive work environment.

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As Tropicana enters its eighth year of its sustainability journey, the company continues to align its business operations with the UN SDGs. This commitment is particularly pertinent given Malaysia’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Developers will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the cities and communities of tomorrow, one that goes far beyond futureproofing their businesses and corporate reputations. Tropicana's ongoing commitment reflects a positive shift, one that puts people and the well-being of the planet at the centre of a profitable business.

In a sector with substantial utilisation of materials and energy, the impact that innovative developers such as Tropicana make cannot be overstated. As consumers grow more discerning about the ethical stance of businesses they support, Tropicana has the potential to inspire a race to the top.

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