GEORGE TOWN, 15 November 2025 – CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (CIMB Islamic) has renewed its two-year partnership with The Habitat Foundation and Penang Institute to accelerate conservation efforts under the CIMB EcoSave-i: Our Nature, Our Treasure initiative. Backed by a RM1 million commitment through the Bank’s EcoSave-i savings account, the collaboration will scale environmental education, biodiversity protection, and community engagement across Penang Hill Biosphere Reserve (PHBR) and Royal Belum State Park.
In its new phase, the programme expands into Royal Belum with a dedicated focus on revitalising endangered seladang (Malayan gaur) populations. Efforts will include improving habitat conditions, expanding grazing zones, maintaining saltlicks, and supporting herd monitoring in collaboration with local Orang Asli communities.
CIMB Islamic CEO Ahmad Shahriman Mohd Shariff said the renewed partnership reflects the Bank’s commitment to safeguarding two of Malaysia’s most critical ecosystems.
“Through EcoSave-i, we aim to create meaningful opportunities for communities to connect with nature and play an active role in its protection. The expansion into Royal Belum strengthens conservation for the seladang, a species essential to the balance of our forest ecosystems.”
He added that collective action, across partners and the public, will amplify impact and align with CIMB Group’s purpose of advancing customers and society.
Penang State EXCO for Housing and Environment, Dato’ Seri Sundarajoo A/L Somu, said the initiative aligns closely with the Penang2030 Vision to build a green, resilient, and family-focused state.
Ooi Geok Ling, Board Member of The Habitat Foundation, said recognition is “only the beginning” of the journey towards deeper conservation excellence.” Penang Institute Executive Director Dato’ Dr Ooi Kee Beng emphasised the need for progressive approaches to urban biodiversity, noting that “accessibility and appreciation go hand in hand” in cultivating long-term respect for natural surroundings.
In Penang, the programme will continue installing additional wildlife canopy bridges at identified hotspots to support safer movement for the endangered Dusky Langur and other wildlife across busy roads. Public awareness will also be intensified through talks, experiential nature camps, and guided visits for more than 500 participants annually, including schoolchildren and underprivileged communities.
The partnership will further incorporate sustainability innovations through the installation of Economical Food Waste Composters developed by Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) at selected schools and community sites. Each machine can process up to one tonne of food waste per year into compost for urban farming and habitat restoration.
EcoSave-i, Malaysia’s first environmentally focused Islamic savings account, funds these initiatives by contributing 0.2%* of the portfolio’s total average balance annually to environmental projects. Since 2008, EcoSave-i has channelled over RM12 million to conservation and environmental programmes nationwide.
The public can support these efforts by opening an EcoSave-i account online or at any CIMB branch. Customers who maintain a monthly average balance of RM5,000 without over-the-counter transactions receive a RM5 monthly cash incentive.
