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@ green | April-May, 2025

ESGAM and iFORTE Intelligence have signed an MoU to build an AI-powered ESG platform for Malaysian SMEs. From virtual assistance to funding access, the platform offers end-to-end ESG support. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to driving ESG awareness and digital transformation.

� CODE OF GREEN: ESGAM and iFORTE take a step towards digital

ESG solutions.

AI AT WORK

The role of ESG compliance is becoming increasingly critical- especially for SMEs, which contribute about 38 per cent of Malaysia’ s Gross Domestic Product( GDP). Yet, due to limited access to tools and expertise, they are among the most vulnerable to being excluded from global supply chains if they fail to align with ESG requirements.

The upcoming digital platform seeks to close this gap, offering local enterprises a user-friendly solution to embed sustainability into their operations.

The initiative is being spearheaded by ESGAM, a national association made up of professionals from various backgrounds, including business, academia, law, finance, and the non-profit sector.

ESGAM was established with the aim of accelerating Malaysia’ s sustainability journey, which is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals( SDG17). The association plays a vital role in advocating for broader ESG adoption and

creating an ecosystem that supports responsible development across sectors.

Meanwhile, iFORTE Intelligence brings to the table its expertise in digital solutions and managed technology services. Recognised as a multi-award-winning tech firm, iFORTE works with clients to enhance operational performance, improve customer experience and boost workforce efficiency through innovation- their role in the collaboration centres around harnessing AI capabilities to power the backend of the ESG platform.

“ This collaboration with ESGAM marks a significant step toward integrating sustainability with digital innovation.

“ Our AI-powered ESG platform will enable businesses, especially SMEs, to leverage technology to simplify ESG adoption, making it more accessible, actionable, and impactful for organisations of all sizes,” said iFORTE Intelligence Chief Executive Officer CK Ng.

Moreover, the digital platform will feature a range of integrated tools designed to make ESG adoption more straightforward.

Among these are a streamlined membership registration system, an education portal offering curated courses and certifications, and an AI-driven assessment tool that evaluates ESG performance while providing actionable insights.

Additionally, businesses will be able to connect with ESG experts through a digital directory, access funding opportunities via a financing and grants module, and explore responsible procurement options in the ESG marketplace. An AI-powered virtual assistant will also be available to guide users in real-time.

STRATEGIC ALLIANCE

ESGAM President Adjunct Practice Professor Cheah Kok Hoong mentioned:“ What began in 2022 as the vision for a one-stop shop for ESG has now evolved into a powerful AI-driven platform, thanks to the collaboration between ESGAM and iFORTE.

“ With this innovation, we are building a digital ecosystem that is inclusive and also empowers industries and related sectors to seamlessly integrate ESG practices, making sustainability more accessible and impactful, particularly for SMEs who are critical to Malaysia’ s economy.”

A significant feature of the platform is its ESG marketplace- which will allow verified ESG vendors to showcase their sustainable offerings. This feature is expected to support responsible procurement and consumption, encouraging businesses to work with partners who meet ESG standards and principles.

With the platform scheduled for launch in the coming months, both ESGAM and iFORTE are working closely to ensure a smooth rollout. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to building a greener, more inclusive economy- one that positions Malaysian SMEs to thrive in an increasingly sustainability-focused global landscape.- @ green