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KUALA LUMPUR: The quality of corporate reporting has a profound impact on investors' confidence, facilitating business growth, and thus contributing to overall economic progress.
Bursa Malaysia chairman, Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar said companies that exemplify strong reporting practices set a benchmark for transparency and integrity - values that are indispensable for sustained growth and long-term success, which have far-reaching rippling effects beyond the immediate company into broader corporate Malaysia and the economy.
He noted that in a rapidly evolving and highly competitive global marketplace, the importance of clear, accurate, and transparent corporate reporting cannot be overstated.
"Annual reports are far more than a collection of financial statements. They serve as powerful tools that offer valuable insights into a company's strategies, performance, and aspirations.
"These reports reflect a company's intent to engage meaningfully with stakeholders, providing the critical information needed for informed decision-making," he said in his speech at the virtual launch of the National Annual Corporate Report Awards (NACRA) 2025 today.
For investors, regulators and the public, an annual report often represents the first window into a company's governance practices, culture, and long-term competitiveness, he said.
"It is through these reports that trust is built and the credibility is earned. Clear and forthcoming reporting not only demonstrates financial accountability, but also underscores a company's commitment to upholding the highest standards of business practices," said Abdul Wahid.
Today, evaluating a public listed company goes far beyond financial performance and corporate governance, and for Bursa Malaysia, sustainability is a paramount priority and not merely a compliance requirement.
"This focus reflects the growing awareness of the interconnectedness between business operations and environmental, sustainable and governance (ESG) factors.
"Our Enhanced Sustainability Reporting Framework, aligned to the National Sustainability Reporting Framework, looks at enhanced transparency and accountability in managing sustainability risks and opportunities, improving business resilience while contributing to the nation's broader sustainability agenda," he said.
By participating in NACRA 2025, companies not only demonstrate their dedication to robust corporate reporting, but also contribute to the collective effort of raising the bar for transparency and accountability across all sectors.
"Whether you are a seasoned industry leader or an emerging company, NACRA provides a visible stage to highlight your strengths in corporate reporting.
"It is a space to showcase your dedication to best practices, enabling the company to feature your narrative to a wider audience, and uplift your company's reputation," he added.
Source: https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2025/03/1187745/quality-corporate-reporting-shapes-investors-confidence-%C2%A0abdul