KINIBIZ Tiger doesn't like to admit it too often, but Tiger is a bit of a greenie. It does take away from the tough cat, ‘King of the Jungle' image, but someone has to stand up for the environment.

For some time now, Tiger has been following the news, especially when it comes to environmental issues. And Tiger is more than aware the government has taken steps towards encouraging green technology and industry.

Under the banner of ‘Advancing green technology' during Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak's 2011 Budget speech, the government for a rare moment put the environment in the spotlight, albeit with a business focus.

"The government is committed to develop green technology to ensure sustainable development. In this regard, the government will continue to provide several incentives," said Najib.

The ‘several incentives' referred to here include various tax allowances for sustainable energy generation, biodiesel production and the purchase of hybrid vehicles.

No doubt, since excise and import taxes have been cut, hybrid vehicles have been making waves in the Malaysian automotive market. They are well represented on the streets, Tiger notices.

When they run off stored battery power, cleverly regenerated from kinetic energy otherwise lost in braking, hybrids are as silent as Tiger, stalking and prowling in the jungle.

Not only are hybrid vehicles on the market priced below regular cars, they also consume less petrol to get you further.

Ever sceptical, Tiger can't help but suspect the tax giveaways as a half-hearted attempt at growing ‘green technology.'

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This article was written by Chan Quan Min.