Tan (fourth from left) presenting a PGIGCE 2024 poster to Chow (second from right). With them are Sundarajoo (third from right) and Tham (right). — KT GOH/The Star
IT is vital that all businesses recognise the importance of environmental, social and governance (ESG) and work towards a common goal, says Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He said adopting ESG principles helped businesses build a good standing among investors and customers who value social and environmental responsibility.
“This allows companies to become more competitive in the market and improve their prospects for long-term financial growth,” said Chow.
He was speaking at a media conference of the Penang International Green Conference and Exhibition 2024 (PGIGCE 2024) in Komtar, George Town.
Chow, who is Penang Green Council (PGC) chairman, said small and medium enterprises (SMEs) must adapt to policies ensuring sustainability and continuity.
“To this end, PGC collaborated with InvestPenang to organise the ESG Lab focus group discussion of implementing ESG requirements and reporting last month.
“This focus group discussion was attended by Penang public-listed companies.
“It covered various aspects of ESG practices, the challenges they face in meeting Bursa Malaysia’s reporting requirements and the support needed from Penang government,” he said.
For PGIGCE 2024, scheduled to take place on Nov 16 to 17, Chow described the mega event as a platform to advance sustainability worldwide.
It aims to explore solutions and strategies in four crucial areas – Green Tech, Green Finance, Capacity Building and Net Zero initiatives.
“Whether as an event sponsor, partner, exhibitor or participant, your involvement in PGIGCE 2024 is crucial in driving positive changes,” he noted.
Present at the event were PGC general manager Josephine Tan, state housing and environment committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, PGC director and PGIGCE organising chairman Baylon Tham Wai Leong.
