Plug in and Shop On: Hektar REIT’s Malls Transform the Experience with Advanced EV Charging Bays

§  Hektar REIT announces a collaboration with GMA for the installation of state-of-the-art EV Charging Bays at all six shopping malls

§  The initiative represents a key milestone in Hektar REIT's commitment to robust ESG practices and sustainability goals

Kuala Lumpur, 2 October 2023 – Hektar Asset Management Sdn. Bhd., the Manager of Hektar Real Estate Investment Trust (“Hektar REIT”), is pleased to announce a collaboration with GMA Resources Sdn Bhd (“GMA”). This initiative involves the installation of 13 Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Bays across six shopping malls in Hektar REIT’s portfolio commencing from 1 January 2024.

In the retail landscape that continues to adapt to changing consumer behaviors and global challenges, such as climate change, the installation of EV Charging Bays presents an innovative move to stay ahead of market demands. This initiative represents not just an alignment with the global move towards green energy but also a concrete step in Hektar REIT's robust Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives.

These charging bays represent an upgrade to the existing bays across the portfolio based on their latest technology aligning better with Hektar REIT's commercial and sustainability goals. We are also introducing an additional bay which will be the first of its kind at our shopping mall located at Segamat Central in Segamat, Johor, fortifying the REIT's commitment to bringing greener options to diverse and under-served geographical locations.

En. Johan Azman Ghaus, Director of GMA Resources Sdn. Bhd. said, “After three decades in the energy sector, we are thrilled to embark on this EV charging bays collaboration with Hektar REIT, aligning with their energy transition efforts to champion a sustainable environment. It further underscores our belief that the renewables & EV sector will emerge as vital components of our portfolio and we look forward to future innovation opportunities in this space.”

In alignment with Hektar REIT's unwavering commitment towards ESG goals, a key part of this collaboration centers on enhancing the portfolio's sustainability credentials. The introduction of these EV Charging Bays not only promotes the adoption of green transportation options but also strengthens Hektar REIT's appeal to a growing demographic of environmentally conscious shoppers and loyal patrons.

En. Johari Shukri Jamil, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer of Hektar Asset Management Sdn. Bhd. said, "We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with GMA! This partnership amplifies Hektar REIT's dedication to pioneering the future of transportation, ensuring unparalleled convenience and championing sustainability for our valued patrons.”

These new EV charging bays signify more than just infrastructure; they represent Hektar REIT’s pledge to nurture greener communities and drive innovation in retail experiences. With these new EV charging bays, we aim to make every shopping trip a little more convenient, ensuring our EV-driving patrons feel right at home while they shop, dine, and recharge – both their cars and their spirits.

As part of our larger mission to champion environmental responsibility, Hektar REIT is committed to rolling out even more sustainability-focused initiatives in the near future. Our aim is to tangibly reduce our carbon footprint, ensuring that our malls aren't just places of commerce but hubs of green innovation and community partnership. Stay tuned as we continue our journey towards a greener tomorrow.