
KUCHING: Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad launched its inaugural report titled ‘Navigating ESG in Sarawak: Insights from SMEs (Sarawak SME ESG Report).
It is aimed at advancing the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda among small and medium-sized enterprise (SMEs) in Sarawak and was developed through a comprehensive study conducted with the support of the Sarawak government, InvestSarawak, Monash University and United Nations Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei (UNGCMYB).
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg launched the report during the Hydrogen Economy Forum held here today (May 13).
In the foreword of the report, Abang Johari reaffirmed Sarawak’s commitment to embedding sustainability at the core of its economic development, in line with the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).
“This comprehensive report not only underscores the progress made by Sarawakian businesses but also highlights areas where support and intervention are necessary. By aligning their practices with ESG principles, SMEs can bolster their resilience, competitiveness and contribute significantly to Sarawak’s sustainable future,” said Abang Johari.
Invest Sarawak, a key partner in this report, is committed to supporting SMEs in overcoming challenges related to ESG adoption, including providing clarity, financial support, and facilitating capacity-building opportunities.
Timothy Ong, chief executive officer of InvestSarawak, highlighted the need for practical action to support SMEs. He said, “ESG practices are increasingly vital for businesses to remain competitive, attract investment, and ensure long-term viability. The findings presented in this report clearly demonstrate that Sarawak’s SMEs recognise the importance of sustainability, with a significant number already taking tangible steps to embed ESG into their business strategies.”
Kellee Kam, group chief executive officer of Alliance Bank said, “Delivering a Sarawak focused report is not just timely, it is essential. The state-specific ESG report provides a deeper understanding of the realities faced by local businesses. This enables us to identify both the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead. The data gathered will empower businesses to make informed decisions while also serving as a benchmark that encourages the adoption of best practices across industries.”
Meanwhile, speaking on the research component of the report, Monash University Malaysia’s chief executive officer and pro vice-chancellor and president Professor Datuk’ Adeeba Kamarulzaman, said “This initiative brings together government, academia, industry, and civil society, underscoring the collective effort needed to advance sustainability. The research component of this collaboration involves a state-wide study that offers critical insights into ESG practices among SMEs. The findings support the development of policies and strategies that help SMEs integrate ESG principles, enhancing their resilience and competitiveness while contributing meaningfully to Sarawak’s sustainable and inclusive growth”.
The Sarawak SME ESG Report reveals promising momentum among SMEs, showing that six in ten SMEs in Sarawak are aware of sustainability issues, and 66% have already begun implementing ESG practices including a portion who are unconscious adopters.
Among non-adopters, 98% indicated a strong intention to adopt ESG measures, with 59% planning to act within the next two years.
The leading motivators for SMEs to adopt ESG practices include meeting the evolving expectations of consumers, suppliers and investors.
Despite these positive trends, challenges such as limited resources, staffing constraints, and navigating various ESG frameworks were cited as key barriers to wider adoption.
Source: https://www.sarawaktribune.com/paper-on-advancing-esg-agenda-among-smes-launched/