Over the years, asset management and infrastructure solutions provider UEM Edgenta Bhd has intensify its integration of technology with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles. This aligns with National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the nation’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030. The group has positioned its wholly owned unit, Opus International (M) Berhad and Opus Energy Sdn Bhd collectively known as Opus, at the forefront of this sustainability agenda, supporting clients on their ESG and decarbonisation journey.

“One of our flagship initiatives is the Zero-Capex Programme, which enables green retrofitting and energy-efficiency upgrades without any upfront investment. With a funding commitment of RM200 million, this programme makes sustainability more accessible by reducing carbon emissions and operational costs for building and asset owners. To further enhance our clients’ decarbonization efforts and net-zero goals, Opus integrate advanced technologies such as real-time energy monitoring,” says Opus Group, Managing Director, Hillary Chua.

Hillary took the helm at Opus in October, transitioning from her previous role as UEM Edgenta’s Chief Financial Officer. Opus Group is a leading engineering, project and asset management consultancy in Malaysia. Over the last 30 years, Opus has been instrumental in shaping Malaysia’s infrastructure developments in both West and East Malaysia. the company has delivered mega projects, including the North-South Expressway, Kelana Jaya and Ampang Line LRT extensions, the KTMB Electrified Double Track from Rawang to Ipoh and Ipoh to Padang Besar, and the Cyberjaya Development, collectively valued at over RM100 billion. For Sarawak, Opus is a key player in the Pan Borneo Highway project, ‘Coastal Road Network and Second Trunk Roads’ and Kuching Urban Transportation System.

Under Hillary’s leadership, Opus has undergone a significant transformation. In 2021, the company’s faced a net loss after tax of more than RM20 million. However, under Hillary’s leadership alongside with UEM Edgenta Managing Director & CEO, Syahrunizam Samsudin’s, Opus made a remarkable turnaround in the last 2 years, moving from losses to profitability, with net profit growing by over 100% from 2021 to 2023.

“Our turnaround strategy centres on operational excellence, cost optimization, and repositioning our solutions. We’re strengthening our market presence in East Malaysia, exploring international opportunities, and expanding offerings like dTIMS, modular PMC, and energy-efficiency solutions to address the growing demand for sustainability,” says Hillary. Her turnaround strategy not only revitalized Opus’ financial performance but also reaffirmed its position as a leader in engineering and asset management.

While navigating these challenges, especially in a predominantly male, technical-driven industry, Hillary leveraged on her business management and financial strategy skills to bridge the gap between technical and business perspectives. “My leadership approach, focused on collaboration and diversity, while working closely with our engineering teams, to ensure profitable turnaround strategies were effectively executed,” she shares.

Her successful track record, including her role as the former Chief Financial Officer of UEM Edgenta, earned her the trust of stakeholders. This trust was crucial as she was entrusted with leading Opus through a significant transformation. Her leadership has successfully pivoted Opus towards sustainability, aligning with the Group Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of UEM Edgenta, Syahruhnizam Samsudin’s strategic vision for Opus to establish the company not only as a market leader in engineering consultancy and asset management, but also as one of the largest Energy Service Companies (ESCO) in the country.

The integration of sustainability into Opus’ business model has been strongly supported by UEM Edgenta’s Board of Directors, whose commitment to ESG principles has guided the group’s strategic direction. Their support has empowered Opus leadership to make bold moves, aligning its business with national climate goals while meeting growing market demands for sustainable solutions. Hillary highlights, “ As a forward-thinking leader, I saw this as an opportunity to position Opus at the forefront of the energy transition. We are now well-positioned to lead as Malaysia’s Leading Energy Service Company (ESCO) by combining our engineering consultancy strengths and expertise of over 110 engineers to scale up our energy efficiency business”, Hillary explained.

“In addition, with a funding commitment of RM200 million for both East and West Malaysia, we aim to accelerate the adoption of energy efficiency and green retrofits by addressing the primary challenge of Capex for asset owners. This initiative supports decarbonization by offering accessible solutions that reduce emissions and optimize asset performance,” Hillary explained. “Aligned with National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and GEAR-uP initiative under the Madani Economy framework, particularly in the area of energy transition, this program is integral to advancing national goals.”

“As Khazanah Group of companies, we are proud to contribute to accelerating the NETR and GEAR-uP initiative, both of which are essential to the Malaysian government’s broader strategy to boost domestic investments in key sectors such as energy transition, digitalization, and advanced manufacturing. This approach helps ensure economic stability, resilience, and progress toward a sustainable future,” Hillary added.

Hillary’s strategy for Opus also focuses on driving growth and innovation by enhancing technological capabilities. This includes adopting digital tools, data analytics, AI, and sustainable engineering to offer innovative, cost-effective solutions. She highlights the importance of strategic partnerships to accelerate cutting-edge solutions.

Hillary attributes Opus’ success to her leadership style that embraces diversity, fostering a cohesive and innovative working environment. Valuing diverse perspectives has enabled teams at Opus to creatively solve complex challenges. This exemplified by Opus’s key growing sectors, the sustainability business is currently led by a talented female engineer, highlighting the company’s commitment to gender diversity and empowering women in leadership.

With 40% of top management positions held by women, including Hillary, Opus reinforces its dedication to inclusivity, “Our focus on ESG and DEI ensures that success is measured not only by financial performance but by the positive impact on society and the environment,” Hillary notes. This commitment extends to the communities it serves, particularly in Sarawak, where up to 70% of the workforce is local, further demonstrating Opus’s commitment in regional talent development and economic empowerment. “Our emphasis on inclusivity and diversity in hiring has strengthened our business and deepened our impact in the regions where we operate.”

Hillary’s inclusive leadership ensures that diverse viewpoints are brought to the table, promoting innovation and preventing groupthink. This approach strengthens team cohesion and enhances Opus’ ability to deliver sustainable and cutting-edge solutions for clients. Flexible work arrangements are also central to Opus and UEM Edgenta’s DEI strategies, creating a more equitable work environment and enhancing business performance. “Embedding flexibility support diverse employee needs while achieving our business goals,” she adds.

To those question the notion of “increasing female representation on boards for the sake of DEI”,, Hillary firmly believes that board representation should be merit-based, with qualified individuals leading, regardless of gender. “Increasing female representation on boards is not about compromising on merit or filling quotas but about expanding the pool of talent and bringing in diverse perspectives that enhance decision-making and board effectiveness,” Hillary explained.

“Gender-diverse boards drive better performance, innovation, and governance. Women bring fresh insights into strategy and social responsibility, enriching decision-making and improving board dynamics.”

“Gender diversity strengthens corporate reputation, attracts top talent, and leads to more sustainable and equitable outcomes. By integrating women, organizations gain valuable perspectives that enhance problem-solving, risk management, and overall effectiveness, making them more resilient and innovative.”

“Industry collaboration is a critical driver of growth at Opus,” says Hillary. “By partnering with leading companies, we combine expertise and resources to advance strategic goals.” Opus’ partnerships with key players, such as Iskandar Investment Bhd and Boustead Properties Bhd, focus on advanced energy efficiency solutions for the development of a sustainable built environment and hyper-connected city technologies,. These collaborations align sustainability with community growth, underscoring Opus’ commitment to inclusive development.

To meet the growing demand for sustainability, Human Capital Development is a priority as Opus navigates the transformation of its core engineering and Energy Efficiency (EE) business. Opus invests heavily in workforce development through its Employee Competencies and Development Committee that focuses on-Employee Individual Development Plans. We also provide executive training at institutions like INSEAD and certifications for engineers. Currently, 30% of Opus’ engineers, including those with advanced qualifications like Professional Engineer (PE) and PE Practicing Certificates, are women—demonstrating its commitment to diversity in leadership and technical roles.

In response to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act, Opus is expanding its capacity by training more energy managers and auditors, preparing to meet business and regulatory needs. “These efforts help us support our clients’ sustainability goals while driving Opus’ leadership in the green economy.” Hillary adds.

By focusing on both core capabilities and the growing EE business, Opus remains adaptable, innovative, and well-prepared for future industry demands.

Under Hillary Chua’s leadership, and with its holding company, UEM Edgenta support, Opus has successfully integrated sustainability with business growth. Strong strategies, partnerships and a focus on DEI have led to tangible improvements, including stronger business performance and a solidified order book. As Opus remains to lead in asset management and engineering consultancy, it remains committed to long-term sustainability and resilience.