PETALING JAYA: The ESG Positive Impact Awards will return this year with its third instalment and is once again supported by OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Bhd as the main sponsor.
The event will recognise achievements and also equip businesses with the necessary tools to drive change.
Star Media Group (SMG) group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt said OCBC’s support is a testament to its belief in promoting ESG (environmental, social and governance) principles.
“OCBC’s support reflects the bank’s strong values and belief in promoting ESG principles and inspiring positive changes across the business community.
“I look forward to the promising journey ahead as we celebrate ESG excellence in Malaysia,” he said at the ESG Positive Impact Awards 2024 Power Breakfast at Menara Star here yesterday.
Chan also said businesses that strive for ESG excellence would be able to elevate their operations, contribute to industry progress and build stronger communities.
“In line with this vision, we are excited to announce the introduction of a new award category this year: Sustainable Products and Services.
Towards excellence: Chan (left) and Teoh sealing another year of partnership for the third instalment of the ESG Positive Impact Awards at Menara Star. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star.
“This addition reflects the growing importance of innovation in developing solutions that contribute to a sustainable future,” he said.
Chan added that the awards ceremony goes beyond recognition as it is also a call to action for Malaysian businesses to contribute to a harmonious coexistence between people, planet and profit.
OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Bhd’s head of wholesale banking Jeffrey Teoh Nee Teik said sustainability is a shared commitment across all shareholders.
“ESG principles are becoming increasingly vital in shaping the world. In OCBC, we hold on to the power of collective action.
“Responsible business practices are no longer optional, they are essential. Each of us has pivotal roles to play in driving positive change and together we can make a profound difference,” he said in his speech.
Teoh added that participation of businesses in the ESG Positive Impact Awards 2024 demonstrates their commitment in achieving greater change to the environment.
Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) deputy chief executive officer for investment development Zalina Zainol said ESG is no longer a framework for reporting, rather a tool for sparking changes for businesses.
“It is a way forward for businesses to make a real difference. Companies that look beyond profits and commit to protecting the environment and uplifting communities are leading the way.
“ESG is now critical for businesses that want to thrive, remain competitive, and stay resilient in an evolving global market,” she said in her keynote address.
She added that as ESG goes beyond environmental concerns, balancing economic growth and inclusivity would also be vital for long-term success.
Zalina said that in efforts to achieve this, empowering micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), is also essential.
“These businesses are key players, and they need guidance to navigate the complexities of ESG.
“On Mida’s part, we are stepping up with initiatives like the Domestic Investment Accelerator Fund (DIAF) to empower domestic SMEs and Mid-Tier Companies in their sustainability journeys,” she said.
The power breakfast also featured talks and sharing sessions, including ESG Bytetalks on Responsible Consumption and Production; Good Health and Wellbeing; and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI).
OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Bhd executive director Chan Mei Ling shared with the guests about the bank’s SME Energy Efficiency Assessment Tool to calculate energy usage in companies.
