Instant connections, streaming, gaming, and online money transfers are all things that come to mind when we think of the internet. However, a vast network of data centers that use a tremendous amount of energy are behind every click. In actuality, data centers are thought to consume 2% of the world’s electricity, and as cloud services, artificial intelligence, and 5G become more popular, this percentage is rising quickly.

Sustainability in internet infrastructure is now required in Malaysia, where digital economy initiatives and internet adoption are booming. There is pressure on Internet service providers (ISPs) to lower their energy expenses, lessen their carbon footprint, and comply with the government’s Green Technology Master Plan.

With an emphasis on sustainable data centers, this blog examines how Malaysian ISPs are pursuing green internet practices.

Why Malaysia Needs a Green Internet

1.Increasing Use of the Internet

With more than 97% of Malaysians having access to the internet, there is an explosive demand for cloud storage, streaming, and faster connectivity.

ISPs are forced to expand their data centers due to this surge, which, if sustainability isn’t addressed, will result in higher energy consumption.

2.The government’s green initiative

• By 2050, Malaysia has promised to have zero net greenhouse gas emissions.
• ISPs are expected to support national sustainability goals as a component of the digital economy.

3.Social responsibility of corporations (CSR)

Customers’ awareness of the environment is growing. Companies that use green internet practices not only save energy but also increase customer trust.

The Effect of Data Centers on the Environment

The internet’s backbone, data centers, have an impact on the environment.

• High Energy Use: Just cooling systems use between 30 and 40 percent of the energy in a data center.
• Carbon Emissions: Malaysia’s carbon footprint is increased by non-renewable energy sources.
• Problems with E-Waste: Frequently, electronic waste is not properly recycled due to frequent hardware upgrades.

The internet’s explosive growth may conflict with Malaysia’s climate goals if green practices are not adopted.

How ISPs in Malaysia Are Going Green 

1. Using Renewable Energy

To power their data centers, some ISPs are collaborating with solar and hydro energy suppliers. States like Johor and Selangor already have solar farms that feed electricity into the grid.

2. Cooling Systems That Use Less Energy

• ISPs are using the following in place of conventional air conditioning:
• Hardware is directly cooled by liquid cooling, which saves energy.
• Free cooling, which lowers indoor temperatures at night by using outside air.

3. Certifications for Green Data Centers

International certifications like these are being pursued by ISPs:

• Leading in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED
• The Sustainable Digital Infrastructure (SDI) of Uptime Institute

These certifications demonstrate a dedication to ecologically responsible and energy-efficient practices.

4. Energy Management Driven by AI

Artificial intelligence is being used to reduce wasteful energy use by optimizing cooling and power distribution in real time.

5. The Circular Economy and Recycling

To guarantee that servers and obsolete equipment are recycled or reused appropriately, some Malaysian ISPs are working with e-waste recycling companies.

5G and 6G’s Contribution to the Green Internet

More data processing is possible with faster networks like 5G (and soon 6G), but greener practices are also made possible:

• Smarter IoT Devices → Sensors keep an eye on and optimize data center energy use.
• Edge Computing → By processing data closer to the user, central servers are not overloaded.
• Telecom operators can move energy use to off-peak hours thanks to smart grids.

Therefore, next-generation connectivity opens up new possibilities for energy efficiency even as it raises demand.

Advantages of Eco-Friendly Data Centers

✔ Reduced Operating Costs → Millions of dollars in electricity bills are avoided thanks to renewable energy and efficient cooling.

✔ Better Brand Image → Malaysians have greater faith in environmentally conscious businesses.

✔ Future-Proof Compliance → ISPs can better adhere to future green regulations by adopting early.

✔ Better Customer Experience → Faster, more dependable internet is a result of efficient data centers.

Challenges ISPs Face

• High Initial Costs → AI systems, liquid cooling, and solar panels all demand significant up-front expenditures.
• Technology Adoption → Smaller ISPs might find it difficult to put green initiatives into practice.
• Gap in Awareness → The connection between internet services and sustainability is not always clear to users.

Despite these obstacles, Malaysia is seeing a rapid increase in the use of green internet, particularly as local and international regulators push for sustainability.

The Implications for Malaysians

A green internet means the following to regular users:

• faster and more dependable connections (as a result of data centers being updated).
• Long-term, more reasonably priced services (since energy efficiency lowers costs).
• merely using internet services to indirectly support Malaysia’s climate goals.

In conclusion

The question is now, “Can we afford not to go green?” rather than, “Can we afford to go green?” as Malaysia embraces digital transformation. In order to ensure that our digital future is also environmentally friendly, Internet service providers are setting the standard with sustainable data centers, renewable energy, and AI-driven efficiency.

At Sizaf Infocomm, we think that in order to create a more environmentally friendly digital Malaysia, companies and individuals must collaborate. Now is the moment to take action, whether you’re an internet user looking to stay on top of trends or a business looking for more intelligent IT solutions.

📞 To learn more about sustainable digital solutions, get in touch with us:

 Malaysia: +60 146600012 

USA: +1 516 880 9996 

We can power a cleaner planet and a faster internet together. 🌍