15 November 2025
Through EcoSave-i, the Bank has contributed over RM12 million to community-centred conservation and biodiversity initiatives nationwide
Georgetown : CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (“CIMB Islamic” or “the Bank”), together with The Habitat Foundation and Penang Institute, has renewed a two-year partnership to accelerate conservation efforts in Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve (“PHBR”) and Royal Belum State Park through CIMB EcoSave-i: Our Nature, Our Treasure initiative. Enabled through a RM1 million commitment via CIMB Islamic’s EcoSave-i savings account (“EcoSave-i”), this renewed collaboration builds on earlier efforts to expand environmental education, strengthen biodiversity protection and broaden community engagement in Penang and Perak.
The new phase will extend to Royal Belum State Park in Perak, with a dedicated focus on revitalising endangered seladang or Malayan gaur populations through improved habitat conditions and enhanced grazing zones to ensure adequate nutrition and healthier breeding herds. In collaboration with the local Orang Asli community as the stewards of the forest, the programme will support herd monitoring, saltlick maintenance and the identification of suitable new grazing areas.
Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff, CEO of CIMB Islamic said, “We are honoured to continue our collaboration with The Habitat Foundation and Penang Institute to safeguard the PHBR and Royal Belum State Park, two of the Malaysia’s most important ecosystems. Through EcoSave-i, we aim to create inclusive and meaningful opportunities for communities to connect with nature, broaden their understanding and actively participate in its protection."
“The next phase of the partnership marks an important expansion into Royal Belum, where we will strengthen conservation efforts for the seladang, a critically endangered species that is unique to this region and essential to the balance of our forest ecosystems. The combined efforts of all partners along with public support, will elevate the impact of this initiative and reinforce our shared responsibility to protect our natural heritage, in line with CIMB Group’s purpose of advancing customers and society,” he added.
YB Dato' Seri Sundarajoo A/L Somu, Penang State EXCO for Housing and Environment said, “The Penang state government has long advocated for a green and resilient future through the Penang2030 Vision, aiming to establish a family-focused, green, and smart state that can inspire the nation. These projects align closely with our Penang2030 goals and highlight the importance of Our Nature, Our Treasure initiative."
Ooi Geok Ling, Board member of The Habitat Foundation said, “Recognition is only the beginning of our journey towards true conservation excellence and deeper nature appreciation. We are heartened that CIMB Islamic stands alongside us in this shared vision."
Dato’ Dr Ooi Kee Beng, Executive Director of Penang Institute, said, “Biodiversity within a city calls for progressive ways of thinking that can help sustain the integrity of Nature. We believe that a deep appreciation of our rich tropical biosphere calls for inhabitants to have nurturing interactions with their natural surroundings. Accessibility and Appreciation go hand in hand, and knowing one’s natural surroundings leads to a willingness to preserve and protect it. ‘Access with respect’ is a value we need to cultivate in the long run."
In addition to expanded efforts in Royal Belum, biodiversity protection initiatives in Penang will continue with the installation of additional wildlife canopy bridges at identified hotspots to enable safe movement for Penang’s endangered Dusky Langur and other wildlife across busy roads. Beyond on-ground conservation, public awareness and education will also be a key focus. Programmes such as talks, experiential nature camps and guided visits will be organised for more than 500 participants from schools, community groups and underprivileged communities annually. These activities aim to encourage meaningful engagement with nature, build understanding of local ecosystems and foster a culture of responsible stewardship.
The partnership will also incorporate sustainability innovations aimed at reducing food waste through the installation of Economical Food Waste Composters developed by Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (“UPSI”) in selected schools and community sites. Each machine is expected to process approximately one tonne of food waste into compost annually, supporting urban farming and contributing to habitat restoration activities.
These initiatives are supported by EcoSave-i, Malaysia’s first environmentally focused Islamic savings account. Under EcoSave-i, the Bank commits 0.2%* of the total average portfolio balance per annum is channelled towards environmental projects. Since its launch in 2008, EcoSave-i has contributed more than RM12 million to various conservation and environmental programmes nationwide, supporting community-centred efforts to preserve natural ecosystems and biodiversity.
The public can also support these conservation efforts by opening an EcoSave-i account online or at any CIMB branch nationwide. In addition to indirectly contributing towards environmental initiatives, customers who maintain a monthly average balance of RM5,000 without over-the-counter transactions will receive a RM5 monthly cash incentive.
For more information on EcoSave-i, please visit www.cimb.com.my/ecosave.
*Subject to maximum amount (if any) as stated in the product T&C
