Alam Flora Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Malakoff Corporation Bhd, is taking a significant step towards modernising its waste management and public cleansing operations by deploying electric vehicles (EVs) and artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled technologies. This move is part of the company's broader mechanisation and modernisation strategy aimed at improving productivity, service quality, and operational efficiency. According to Alam Flora's chief executive officer, Shariman Yusuf Mohamed Zain, the introduction of EVs and electric cleaning equipment is not just about adopting new technology, but about transforming the way essential public services are delivered.
The company is currently conducting a proof-of-concept (POC) programme to assess the suitability, reliability, and performance of these technologies under actual operating conditions. The POC programme will evaluate key operational indicators such as driving range, payload capacity, charging time, operating costs, and the vehicles' ability to meet the company's service level agreements. Shariman stated that each EV refuse collection vehicle is expected to reduce carbon emissions by about 77 per cent compared to a diesel-powered equivalent, based on the company's internal operational assessment.
Alam Flora has introduced a range of EV-powered assets, including refuse compactors, road washers, and road sweepers, as well as AI-enabled Mobile Digital Video Recorder (MDVR) technology to enhance driver safety and detect damaged waste bins. The company plans to gradually expand the use of EVs, but expects to maintain a hybrid fleet, with future deployment depending on the findings of the pilot programme and technological developments. The initiative is aligned with the government's aspirations under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) and the Housing and Local Government Ministry's circular economy agenda, which emphasize low-carbon cities and sustainable waste management.
Alam Flora's commitment to innovation and sustainability is reflected in its aspiration to "Enhance Life, Enrich Communities" by delivering innovative and sustainable public cleansing services. In terms of numbers, Alam Flora has introduced 182 EV-powered motorcycles, 56 tricycles, 20 blowers, four vacuum units, and two glutton machines, among other assets. 6 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) annually, compared to 232 tonnes for a conventional diesel compactor.
As the company moves forward with its modernisation efforts, it will continue to leverage insights from the proof-of-concept programme to guide future fleet planning and technology adoption. The long-term goal is to build a more efficient, sustainable, and future-ready fleet while maintaining service reliability. The introduction of EVs and AI technology is a significant step towards achieving Alam Flora's sustainability goals and supporting the national agenda for low-carbon cities and sustainable waste management.
As the company continues to innovate and adapt to emerging technologies, it is likely to play a key role in shaping the future of waste management and public cleansing operations in Malaysia.
