KUALA LUMPUR: CapitaLand Malaysia Trust (CLMT), a real estate investment trust (REIT), has secured RM752 million in sustainability-linked loans to date.

Tan Choon Siang, chief executive officer of the REIT's manager CapitaLand Malaysia REIT Management Sdn Bhd, said the company stands to enjoy lower financing costs as it enhances the sustainability performance of its portfolio.

"We will continue to intensify our efforts in sustainable finance as we transition to a low-carbon business. Sustainability remains at the core of what we do, and we will continue pushing boundaries to drive greater progress," he said in a statement to Bursa Malaysia.

He noted that CLMT recently received a three-star rating for standing investments in the 2024 Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB) Real Estate Assessment.

The GRESB Real Estate Assessment is a global benchmark that captures information regarding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and sustainability best practices for real estate funds and companies worldwide.

CLMT's overall score of 78 out of 100 exceeded the global GRESB average, and it also achieved maximum scores in the management and governance categories.

Tan said Capitaland Malaysia REIT Management has stepped up its efforts to decarbonise its portfolio to create a positive impact on the environment.

"These measures include implementing green leases, increasing the use of renewable energy at our properties, achieving green building certifications, and maintaining high governance standards," he noted.

Tan added that the company is also exploring innovative ways to decarbonise and enhance the environmental performance of its properties as it works towards attaining 100 per cent green certification of its portfolio by 2030.

 - BERNAMA