July-August. 2025 | @ green

dullah, a leading public health figure, has also stressed the role of technology in achieving SDG targets, especially in healthcare.

“ Digital health innovations allow us to reach underserved communities and ensure equitable access to essential services,” he remarked.

Shareen Abdul Ghani

DRIVING FORCE

Public-private partnerships are central to Malaysia’ s ESG and SDG strategies. Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management, has partnered with Malaysian entities to implement the Schneider Sustainability Impact 2021-2025 programme.

The initiative aims to align business practices with the UN’ s SDGs while driving innovation in renewable ener-

Steven Sim gy and energy efficiency.

“ Concrete and ambitious targets are necessary for achieving sustainable impact,” said Shareen Shariza Abdul Ghani, chairperson of Malaysia’ s Green Technology Corporation.

FUTURE OUTLOOK

Malaysia’ s ESG and SDG initiatives are not confined to domestic borders. The country collaborates with international organisations to align its efforts with global best practices. For instance, Malaysia’ s participation in the ASEAN Green Recovery Program highlights its commitment to fostering regional sustainability.

As Sim aptly stated:“ Sustainability is no longer a choice; it is a strategic imperative. Malaysia must lead by example to inspire change across borders and sectors.”

Malaysia’ s journey toward sustainability reflects its commitment to global goals while addressing local needs. The alignment of ESG and SDG principles with national strategies ensures that Malaysia remains resilient and competitive in a rapidly changing world.

DURING an ESG event recently, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong delivered a powerful and forward-looking address, focusing on Malaysia’ s path toward sustainable resilience amid global uncertainties.

Sim began by identifying a seismic shift in global geopolitics and trade – declaring that past models built on trade-offs and protectionism were no longer tenable.

Sim cautioned that countries retreating into isolation“ often end up with neither”, urging Malaysia to realign its economic framework to stay competitive and resilient.

Describing ESG investments not as optional costs but as vital insurance, Sim emphasised that companies embedding sustainable and purpose-driven practices are more likely to weather crises.

He argued that long-term commitment to ESG builds market confidence, trust, and reputation.

A rethink on Malaysia’ s economic model: Reflecting on Malaysia’ s low-cost, investment-driven strategy over the past half-century, Sim pressed for a paradigm shift.

He emphasised the need for a“ 4T” approach- investing in talent, technology, products( things), and trademarks( brands).

“ Such a shift would enhance Malaysia’ s value proposition not just to investors but to its citizens and environment,” added Sim.

Sim’ s speech at the event cut through ceremonial formalities, delivering a bold message: sustainable practices are now inseparable from national competitiveness. For him, ESG isn’ t just corporate virtue- it’ s Malaysia’ s strategic imperative.

SUMMARY OF KEY INITIATIVES AND MESSAGES

• Global Pressure and Adaptability: Isolationism is unsustainable; Malaysia must innovate and integrate ESG principles.

• Corporate Sustainability: ESG is a business imperative, with leaders like Petronas and CIMB leading the charge.

• Public-Private Collaboration: Partnerships are essential for embedding ESG nationally, with programs like Schneider Sustainability Impact setting benchmarks.

• Localised Action: Urban centres like Penang and Kuala Lumpur are implementing climate resilience and sustainable urban development projects.

• Future-Proofing the Economy: The " 4T " strategy focuses on talent development, technology, products, and branding to ensure long-term competitiveness and sustainability.