Comparison of Green Building Implementation in Surabaya and Johor Baru

The implementation of the green building concept is a strategic effort to promote sustainable development, particularly in office buildings, which are known for their high energy consumption. This study aims to evaluate the application of green building principles in office buildings located in Surabaya, Indonesia, and Johor Bahru, Malaysia, and to identify the key features, barriers, and solutions related to the adoption of Green Building Materials (GBM). A qualitative descriptive and evaluative approach was employed, guided by the EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) and Greenship standards from the Green Building Council Indonesia (GBCI). The analysis of the case study in Surabaya revealed energy savings of 16.63%, water savings of 34.79%, and material savings of 92%. With recommended improvements, energy savings increased to 23.84%, exceeding the EDGE minimum threshold of 20%. In Johor Bahru, the most important GBM features identified were energy efficiency, low carbon emissions, and recyclable materials. Major barriers included high costs, lack of awareness, and insufficient regulatory frameworks. Recommended solutions involve cost subsidies for key materials (e.g., sustainable bricks, lightweight concrete, and wood flooring), mandatory training for construction workers, and the integration of sustainability-related content into higher education curricula. The findings highlight the critical role of collaboration among government bodies, construction industry stakeholders, and educational institutions in advancing green building practices. This study contributes to the formulation of policies and strategic initiatives aimed at fostering environmentally responsible construction in Southeast Asia.