In a bold step toward realising Perak’s green energy ambitions, Casuarina Meru Sdn Bhd (CMSB), a subsidiary of Perak Corporation Berhad under Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Perak (PKNPk), has partnered with national utility giant Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) to bring advanced electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to Hotel Casuarina@Meru.
The leasing agreement between the two entities was formalised in a landmark ceremony at the Casuarina Convention Centre, officiated by the Menteri Besar of Perak, YAB Dato’ Seri Saarani bin Mohamad. The event celebrated a major public-private collaboration that aligns with Perak Sejahtera 2030, the state’s strategic blueprint for sustainable development.
The initiative will see the installation of one 120kW DC fast charger with dual nozzle (CCS2) and two 22kW AC chargers, all supported by dedicated EV parking bays, 24/7 access, and mobile payment integration. Once operational in Q3 2025, these chargers—powered by TNB’s Elektron brand—will make Hotel Casuarina@Meru home to the fastest EV charging facility among hotels in Ipoh.
“This is more than a milestone; it’s a manifestation of our commitment to a sustainable, low-carbon future,” declared Dato’ Seri Saarani. “Through collaborations like this, we not only invest in green technology but in economic resilience and environmental responsibility.”
Perak has already installed 149 EV charging bays across 56 locations, achieving nearly 30% of its target of 500 charging points by 2025. This latest development accelerates the state’s efforts to grow a comprehensive EV network that reaches urban centres, rural communities, tourism hotspots, and commercial areas.
CMSB Chairman Dato’ Mohd Azhar Jamaluddin emphasised the broader impact: “This initiative elevates our guest experience and enhances the hotel’s profile as a green destination. It reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and sets a benchmark for sustainable hospitality.”
As part of the ceremony, dignitaries including the Menteri Besar experienced a live demonstration of the charging system using Proton’s e.MAS, showcasing seamless integration of locally made EV technology within the hotel’s green infrastructure.
The effort also complements a wider environmental initiative led by PKNPk. Solar panels have been installed on the rooftops of the hotel and its adjacent convention centre, and solar-powered streetlights now illuminate Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah, offering clean energy alternatives while improving public safety.
Datuk Redza Rafiq, Chief Executive of PKNPk, summed up the significance: “We are building an ecosystem where renewable energy powers not just infrastructure, but the future of our state’s economy. This project exemplifies our commitment to ESG principles and forward-thinking investment.”
With this collaboration, Perak cements its reputation as a state on the move—uniting innovation, environmental responsibility, and economic opportunity in its journey toward a low-carbon, investor-friendly future.
