AFFIN Group and Chemsain Sustainability Sdn. Bhd. (CHEMSAIN) have formed a strategic partnership to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in adopting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. This collaboration was unveiled at the AFFIN SME BizChat 2025, a key event aimed at helping SMEs embrace sustainable business practices.
The event was sponsored by Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (CGC) and Generali Life Insurance Malaysia Berhad. It focused on the theme “ESG for SMEs: A Practical Approach,” showcasing AFFIN’s dedication to sustainable banking and the growth of SMEs across Malaysia.
As part of the collaboration, AFFIN launched the Greenhouse Gases Implementer Programme. The initiative provides training for SMEs to adopt the internationally recognised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Corporate Standards. It includes certification pathways for ISO 14064-1 and ISO 14064-2, preparing participants to become certified GHG Practitioners.
Training will be delivered by CHEMSAIN and TÜV SÜD, an internationally accredited certification body. The sessions will focus on helping businesses build Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG baselines. Successful participants will receive TÜV SÜD-recognised credentials.
The partnership was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding signed in July 2024 during the first AFFIN SME BizChat, held in Kuching. That event explored “Driving Sustainable Business with Artificial Intelligence.”
Dato’ Paduka Syed Mashafuddin Syed Badarudin, Chief Executive Officer of Affin Islamic Bank Berhad, stated that AFFIN remains dedicated to supporting SMEs in transitioning to low-carbon operations by adopting sustainable practices. This commitment aligns with the Group’s AX28 Plan under the strategic pillar of Responsible Banking With Impact.
AFFIN has also celebrated recent milestones in ESG leadership. Affin Bank Berhad was upgraded from an ‘A’ to ‘AA’ rating in the latest MSCI ESG Ratings. The report cited improvements in board oversight, transparency, and accountability.
In recognition of its environmental efforts, AFFIN received the Life Below Water and Life On Land Champion Award at the ABM 50th Anniversary CSR Excellence Awards 2024. The award acknowledged the Group’s role in cleaning and maintaining the Klang River through Interceptor 002.
Additionally, AFFIN was named Bank of the Year – ESG Champion at the 10th Sustainability and CSR Malaysia Awards 2025. These honours reflect the Group’s long-term commitment to responsible banking and community impact.
AFFIN SME BizChat 2025 featured a high-impact panel discussion where industry experts shared practical strategies to help SMEs integrate ESG practices, navigate regulatory changes, and stay competitive. Live demonstrations and in-depth presentations offered attendees actionable insights and tools to begin or enhance their sustainability journeys.
Complementing the event was the AFFIN Rakaniaga Bazaar—a lively showcase of products and services by Rakaniaga entrepreneurs. The bazaar served as a platform to increase brand visibility and nationwide exposure for participating SMEs.
It also marked the promotional launch of AFFINMAX, the Group’s secure and user-friendly Corporate Internet Banking platform tailored for financial agility.
AFFINMAX, available via mobile app, allows businesses to manage cash flow and payments securely, supporting the event’s push toward cashless transactions. As part of AFFIN’s broader digital strategy, the platform positions the Bank to tap into new revenue streams while catering to the evolving needs of its Corporate and SME clients.
During the bazaar, AFFIN Rakaniaga engaged attendees with interactive games powered by RewardinMe, a gamification platform designed to drive meaningful brand engagement.
For more information about AFFIN SME BizChat and the Group’s ESG initiatives, members of the public are encouraged to download the award-winning SME Colony mobile application via the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei AppGallery.
Source: https://www.businesstoday.com.my/2025/07/23/affin-and-chemsain-partner-to-drive-esg-adoption-among-malaysian-smes/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=affin-and-chemsain-partner-to-drive-esg-adoption-among-malaysian-smes

