Datuk Seri Azmir Merican, Group managing director,
Sime Darby Property Bhd
By Joseph Wong
As the group managing director of Sime Darby Property Bhd, Datuk Seri Azmir Merican envisions a transformative future for the company—one where innovation, sustainability and value creation intersect to shape Malaysia's real estate landscape. Under his leadership, the company is navigating an ambitious path to redefine its role as a diversified real estate leader, committed to making a positive and lasting impact on people, businesses, economies and the planet.
Azmir's vision is firmly grounded in the company's SHIFT25 strategy, which emphasises a shift from a traditional property developer to a diversified real estate leader. This transformation involves focusing on property development, investment management and asset creation. A key target is achieving a balanced revenue mix of 70:30 between property development and recurring income streams by 2025, showcasing Sime Darby Property's adaptability and strategic growth, Azmir told StarProperty.
"This clarity fosters a sense of belonging and resilience, enabling our people to deliver, gain confidence and build credibility. We are focused on transforming Sime Darby Property into a leading real estate company that creates lasting value for people, businesses, economies and the planet," he said.
Embracing challenges, driving innovation
Navigating the competitive property market has not been without challenges, especially during uncertain times like the Covid-19 pandemic but Sime Darby Property has consistently adapted and innovated to stay ahead, said Azmir.
"While others were hesitant during the pandemic, we pivoted aggressively to online launches and agile strategies," he explained. "This proactive approach has allowed us to maintain a leadership position and continuously push the envelope in the property development sector."
One of the vital lessons learned from the pandemic underscored the critical importance of sustainability, highlighting the need for resilient systems, resource efficiency and long-term environmental stewardship to navigate future challenges.
Fortunately, sustainability is at the heart of Sime Darby Property's transformation. For example, the company has established a decarbonisation pathway targeting a 40% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, aligned with global climate goals. This involves leveraging frameworks like the ARC (avoid, regenerate and conserve) approach to conserve biodiversity, regenerate degraded land and enhance urban ecosystems.
"We realise the importance of integrating nature and urban biodiversity across our developments as this creates a ripple effect in value creation for our communities, investors and stakeholders," Azmir noted. "Our placemaking initiatives leverage global best practices and involve collaboration with urban design experts to create inclusive, vibrant and community-focused spaces that enhance the social and economic value of our townships."
Flagship developments such as the City of Elmina and Bandar Bukit Raja highlight this commitment, incorporating energy-efficient designs, renewable energy solutions like solar power and nature-based solutions to mitigate urban challenges.
Shaping the future of urban living
As urbanisation accelerates, Sime Darby Property is adapting its strategies to meet evolving consumer demands, including the growing preference for transit-oriented developments (TODs), sustainability and innovative urban designs.
Projects such as Hype Residences (SJ7) and Serasi Residences at Putra Heights exemplify the TOD approach, seamlessly integrating residential, commercial and recreational spaces with public transit. Meanwhile, developments like the Elmina Lakeside Mall and KL East Park prioritise biophilic and community-focused designs, setting new standards for urban living in Malaysia.
"Our industrial parks, including Elmina Business Park, Bandar Bukit Raja Industrial Park and Serenia Industrial Park, provide end-to-end solutions for a diverse range of customers—from SMEs to MNCs and large tech companies. With options ranging from ready-built factories to customisable Built-to-Suit facilities and even Built-to-Lease arrangements, we cater to the specific needs of each business," Azmir explained.
“We also lead in integrating renewable energy solutions, including rooftop solar and pursuing green certifications, aligning with our ESG goals to ensure that our industrial developments contribute to economic growth while promoting sustainability for future generations,” he added.
Leveraging on digital technology
The company is also embracing cutting-edge technologies and modern construction methods to deliver smarter, more efficient homes. By adopting advanced techniques like Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), Sime Darby Property is able to build homes faster, with higher quality and sustainability, Azmir shared.
Digital transformation extends to other areas, including the creation of data centres within Sime Darby Property's townships. With multi-billion ringgit lease agreements and renewable options, these data centres are poised to become stable, long-term sources of recurring income.
Strategic priorities for long-term growth
Looking ahead, Azmir’s top priority is the continued execution of the SHIFT25 strategy. The focus is on expanding recurring income streams through industrial and logistics developments, data centres and neighbourhood malls, among others.
The company recognises the finite nature of land and is diversifying its revenue sources accordingly, Azmir explained. "Our success with the RM1 billion Industrial Development Fund highlights our commitment to high-potential segments."
Additionally, the company is exploring innovative solutions like microgrids and large-scale solar projects to create sustainable communities while generating additional recurring income. Affordable housing also remains a key focus, ensuring greater inclusivity in homeownership and catering to untapped market potential.
For Azmir, the success of Sime Darby Property hinges on its people. "We invest in talent development and create an environment that encourages growth, empowerment, learning and engagement, ensuring that our workforce thrives," he said.
Safety and sustainability are also integral to the company's vision. "We have implemented robust safety protocols across all our developments and will continue to improve and reinforce safety measures."
A visionary future
Under Azmir's leadership, Sime Darby Property is redefining its role in the real estate sector, blending innovation, sustainability and a deep understanding of market needs to drive progress. With a clear strategy, transformative initiatives and a commitment to creating lasting value, the company is well-positioned to lead Malaysia's property industry into a dynamic, sustainable future.
"We aim to build a better Malaysia by shaping communities that thrive economically, socially, and environmentally," Azmir affirmed.
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