Amidst Malaysia’s dynamic manufacturing landscape, a groundbreaking research project is reshaping the approach to energy consumption and sustainability. With the aim of addressing the environmental challenges posed by energy-intensive mechanical cooling systems, this initiative focuses on innovative natural ventilation strategies tailored for tropical climates—an area that has long lacked substantial research. This project offers a beacon of hope for more sustainable and environmentally friendly factory designs.
Leading this pioneering effort is Ir Dr Moey Lip Kean, a senior lecturer in mechanical engineering at SEGi University’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology (FoEBEIT). In 2023, he was awarded the prestigious Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) Phase 1 grant by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). The grant, amounting to RM166,300, supports his project titled, ‘Development of Natural Ventilation Design Framework for Sustainable Factory Buildings in Hot and Humid Climates.’
Collaborating with Ir Dr Moey are esteemed researchers including Su Vin Cent @ Tai Vin Cent, Dr Go Tze Fong, and Cheong Kuen Hou from SEGi University; Prof Ir Dr Kamarul Arifin Ahmad from Universiti Putra Malaysia; and Nor Aslinda Awang from the National Hydraulic Research Institute Malaysia (NAHRIM).
The research aims to revolutionize factory building designs by analyzing critical parameters such as building orientation, window placements, indoor partitions, and roof designs to optimize natural ventilation. By reducing reliance on energy-hungry cooling systems, the study strives to lower greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing thermal comfort in factory settings.
This project aligns with Malaysia’s broader climate goals, including the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (2021-2025) and the Green Technology Master Plan (2017-2030), which emphasize sustainability and energy efficiency. The findings promise to offer actionable insights for architects, engineers, and building designers, fostering the adoption of eco-friendly practices that contribute to a greener future.
As Malaysia takes significant steps towards transforming its manufacturing sector into a model of sustainability, this research underscores the country’s commitment to balancing industrial growth with environmental stewardship.
Congratulations once again, Ir Dr Moey, on this remarkable achievement. Your leadership, combined with the collaboration of your team and the support of key funding initiatives, is paving the way for a more sustainable and innovative future. We look forward to the transformative impact of your work!