The recently launched 26th ASEAN Federation of Cement Manufacturers (AFCM) Technical Symposium and Exhibition brings to the fore significant dialogue amongst delegates about the need to embrace initiatives and technologies that can help the cement industry remain competitive whilst achieving decarbonisation goals.

Held triennially, the technical symposium and exhibition organised by AFCM is a key event for cement industry players in the ASEAN region. Key happenings at the event include technical discussions, presentations, and exhibitions showcasing the latest innovations in decarbonisation from leading experts from the cement industry.

Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, who was present to officiate the event stressed that the cement industry is vital to the development and growth of the ASEAN region, as well as a significant contributor to socio-economic growth, creating jobs, driving innovation, and supporting economic advancement.

“As we look to ASEAN’s future, it is clear that our region is poised for exponential growth. Malaysia, as the upcoming Chair of ASEAN in 2025, is committed to proactively supporting ASEAN initiatives such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), which drive economic integration and strengthen cooperation among member states,” said Nik Nazmi.

He also added that Malaysia is looking to expand ASEAN’s economic partnerships beyond the region, with key initiatives such as the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council and China Summits in 2025, which will broaden ASEAN’s economic reach.

At the opening ceremony, President of AFCM, Dato’ Yeoh Soo Keng, who is also AFCM’s first female president shared that the Federation’s mission has always been to promote innovation, tackle industry challenges, and drive sustainable practices that will define the future of the ASEAN cement industry.

Citing this year’s theme entitled "Beyond Grey: Decarbonising Cement”, Dato’ Yeoh said that AFCM is committed to finding new ways to reduce carbon emissions and work towards net-zero targets by 2050.

“AFCM has prioritised sustainability in our agenda. Our members actively adopt low-carbon technologies and improve energy efficiency. To achieve net-zero by 2050, supportive government policies and green investment incentives are crucial. We are committed to working closely with governments and stakeholders to promote sustainable construction and ensure that the regulatory landscape empowers innovation and progress,” she said.

In closing, Dato’ Yeoh reaffirmed AFCM’s commitment to supporting ASEAN’s climate goals and recognises the vital role our industry plays in shaping a sustainable future.

Echoing Dato’ Yeoh’s call for greater collaboration, Chairman of the Cement and Concrete Association (C&CA) of Malaysia, William Tan, hopes that this event will act as a catalyst to spur industry players to overcome the challenges to the cement industry and assist ASEAN in maximising opportunities in the region.

The 26th AFCM Technical Symposium and Exhibition will be held over four days from 4-7 November at JW Marriot Kuala Lumpur. The event will bring together industry experts from across the region and globally to share insights on the cement industry’s development against the backdrop of a critical need to achieve global climate and sustainability goals. 

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