A total of 100 companies from various industries came together at the ESG Positive Impact Awards 2022 to commemorate the best effective environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices in Malaysia’s industries.

The programme’s first run is aimed at promoting Malaysia’s ESG agenda through recognising the role and contributions of outstanding businesses towards a sustainable future.

Through these role models, it hopes to inspire other businesses to consider building, adopting and enhancing their own ESG initiatives – from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to large corporations.

In his opening address, Star Media Group (SMG) chief executive officer Alex Yeow stressed the importance of the ESG agenda in tackling current issues.

“Science has clearly shown us that earth’s natural resources continue to be depleted and even as we speak, countries around the world, including Malaysia, are experiencing extreme weather changes that have and will continue to impact the lives of all living things around us.

“We must also not forget our responsibility to not only care for human beings but also the entire ecosystem.

“Therefore, the urgency to address climate change, social inequality, responsible governance and more has never been greater,” he said yesterday.

Yeow also commended the ESG efforts that have been made by the organisations present at the awards, stressing on the role they play in shaping a better future.

“These organisations have embraced a holistic approach that goes beyond profit margins.

“Together with the new government, corporate Malaysia and civil society, we can ensure the sustainable growth of the nation and our communities.

“Let us strive to be a force for good by raising the benchmark for responsible business practices and building a future that we can be proud to leave behind for future generations,” he added.

Also present was Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry deputy secretary-general (energy) Datuk Mohamad Razif Abd Mubin.

He highlighted the need for businesses to adopt the ESG agenda amid challenges such as climate change and energy security.

“To remain competitive, we must embrace a new mindset, one that integrates environmental stewardship, social responsibility and good governance into our business practices,” said Mohamad Razif, who represented the minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.He also stressed the catalytic role the media and SMG could play in the transformation.

“With your broad reach and influence, you can rally people from all walks of life towards a greener future.”

Mohamad Razif also praised the awards, saying that it would serve as a powerful benchmark and platform for knowledge sharing on ESG best practices.

All participating companies were evaluated by independent judges based on prescribed criteria across three main ESG pillars namely environmental, social and governance.

A total of 15 types of awards, encompassing various ESG aspects, were up for grabs with each having a separate category for SMEs and large corporations.

The ceremony, held at the M Resort and Hotel KL here, saw guests enjoying beverages sponsored by Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Bhd.

Also present were SMG chief business officer Lydia Wang, OCBC Bank (M) Bhd chief executive officer Tan Chor Sen and Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) chief corporate and regulatory officer Tengku Muneer Tengku Muzani.

The ESG Positive Impact Awards 2022 was organised by SMG and endorsed by the ministry with OCBC Bank as main sponsor and TM as co-sponsor.