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EXIM BANK MALAYSIA ANNUAL REPORT 2024

4 ENSURING SUSTAINABILITY 37

b. Regenerative Agriculture: Biochar Initiative

The Regenerative Agriculture Fund is aimed to promote sustainable agriculture practices and land regeneration initiatives
for plantations that product export-oriented commodities and/or products. The aim of this initiative is to reduce the carbon
footprint of palm oil production by incorporating biochar into agricultural practices thus contributing towards the reduction
of Methane, a harmful greenhouse gasses.

These efforts were launched under the EXIM Green Global Initiative on 24 September 2024 during the inaugural EXIM
Sustainability Forum, officiated by YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment,
Trade and Industry (MITI). The Bank collaborated with a non-profit organisation, Wild Asia Sdn Bhd who was appointed
as the implementation partner fort the project. The Project site is in Sabah and the Bank’s involvement is obtaining the
results of the study on the impact of Biochar’s application in enhancing export-oriented commodities and promoting more
sustainable palm oil supply chains, and in creating low-carbon products for a global market to advocate reduction of
carbon emissions.
The project also emphasises artisanal biochar production and certification for carbon C-sink credit generation. Wild Asia
Sdn Bhd is the first entity in Malaysia to receive certified C-Sinks through Carbon Standards International. The project
explores the potential for biochar-related initiatives to generate carbon credits. To support this exploration, a clear
understanding of the certification process and the mechanisms to access carbon markets is essential. Additionally, raising
awareness among internal and external stakeholders is crucial to highlight the agricultural benefits of biochar, its role in
carbon reduction, and its alignment with chemical-free and regenerative farming practices.
Looking ahead, the Bank will continue to monitor the outcomes of this initiative and explore opportunities to support similar
projects that align with its sustainability objectives. Any potential future expansion will be guided by the findings from the
pilot project, stakeholder engagement, and alignment with national and global low-carbon development goals.
c. Environmental Awards: IMPACT Awards 2024

Our Bank is honoured to have been conferred the title of “Lender of the Year” at
the Environmental Finance IMPACT Awards 2024. This prestigious international
accolade recognises our steadfast commitment to sustainable finance and our
pivotal role in advancing Malaysia’s green and inclusive economic agenda.
This award is a testament to the dedication of the Bank and the trust placed in
us by our stakeholders. It affirms the Bank’s strategic direction in embedding
ESG principles across our operations and financing activities. As a development
financial institution mandated to support Malaysian businesses in global
markets, we remain resolute in our efforts to catalyse sustainable growth and
responsible trade.