Sustainable Companies In Malaysia

In Malaysia, sustainable companies are businesses that incorporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into their operations, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These companies focus on long-term strategies that balance economic growth with positive social impacts and environmental stewardship. This definition is consistent with Malaysia’s policies and regulatory frameworks that encourage sustainable business practices.

Bursa Malaysia has introduced the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index to recognize companies that meet globally recognized ESG standards. This initiative underscores the country’s commitment to promoting sustainability in the corporate sector and provides a benchmark for sustainable business practices in the Malaysian context.

Why Is It Important To Become A Sustainable Company?

Malaysian companies can ensure long-term success while contributing to national and global sustainability goals. Becoming a sustainable company in Malaysia is important for these 8 reasons:

1. Long-term Viability

Sustainable companies are better equipped to manage risks associated with climate change and resource scarcity for future success. As environmental regulations in Malaysia continue to strengthen, businesses that adopt sustainable practices are better positioned for long-term stability.

2. Competitive Advantage

In Malaysia, consumer preferences are shifting towards environmentally and socially responsible products and services. Companies that emphasize sustainability often enjoy a more substantial brand reputation and competitive edge in the market.

3. Regulatory Compliance

Malaysia’s environmental regulations, such as the Environmental Quality Act, are evolving. Compliance with these regulations is a key driver for companies to adopt sustainable practices and ensure they remain in good standing with regulatory authorities.

4. Investor Appeal

Investors, including institutional ones in Malaysia, are increasingly focusing on ESG factors when making investment decisions. Companies that integrate sustainability into their operations are more likely to attract capital and maintain investor confidence.

5. Innovation Driver

Sustainability can drive innovation, leading to more efficient processes and new business opportunities. In Malaysia, sectors like renewable energy and waste management are growing areas for sustainable innovation, offering companies new avenues for growth and development.

6. Talent Attraction and Retention

Younger generations in Malaysia are more inclined to work for companies that prioritize social and environmental responsibility. Sustainable companies are, therefore, better positioned to attract and retain top talent in a competitive job market.

7. Stakeholder Trust

Building trust with stakeholders, including local communities, is crucial for long-term success. In Malaysia, many businesses engage in community-based programs to enhance their social impact and strengthen their relationships with various stakeholders.

8. Global Market Access

As international supply chains increasingly emphasize sustainability, Malaysian companies that meet ESG standards are more likely to engage in global trade partnerships. This is particularly important for Malaysia’s export-oriented economy.

List of Sustainable Companies in Malaysia

Malaysia has seen a growing number of companies embracing sustainability in recent years. Here’s a list of 10 notable sustainable companies in Malaysia:

Petronas

Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas), Malaysia’s state-owned oil and gas company, is a leader in sustainability efforts within the energy sector. The company has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and invests heavily in renewable energy projects, carbon capture, and energy-efficient technologies.

CIMB Group Holdings

CIMB, one of Malaysia’s largest banking groups, is known for its strong commitment to ESG initiatives. The group integrates sustainability into its lending and investment decisions and has pledged to phase out coal financing by 2040.

Top Glove Corporation

As the world’s largest glove manufacturer, Top Glove has embraced sustainability by focusing on eco-friendly manufacturing processes, waste management, and energy conservation. The company has also improved social compliance by improving worker conditions and labour standards.

Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB)

TNB, Malaysia’s largest electricity utility company, has made substantial efforts to transition toward renewable energy. The company aims to reduce its carbon footprint by increasing investment in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.

Sime Darby Plantation (SD Guthrie)

Sime Darby Plantation (now SD Guthrie), a significant player in the agriculture and plantation sectors,, is recognized for its commitment to sustainable palm oil production. The company has adopted strict no-deforestation policies and improved labour practices.

Maybank

Maybank has pledged to mobilize RM50 billion in sustainable finance by 2025, focusing on projects that address climate change, affordable housing, and small-to-medium enterprise (SME) support.

Axiata Group

Axiata integrates ESG into its core business strategy by focusing on digital inclusion and sustainable community development. Axiata aims to reduce its carbon emissions by 45% by 2030.

IHH Healthcare

IHH Healthcare focuses on sustainable healthcare services by minimizing its environmental footprint and improving healthcare access in underserved communities.

YTL Corporation

This diversified infrastructure conglomerate is known for its sustainability initiatives, particularly in clean energy. A subsidiary, YTL Power, has invested heavily in renewable energy projects.

Telekom Malaysia

Telekom Malaysia (TM) has integrated sustainability into its operations by reducing energy consumption, promoting digital inclusivity, and supporting green initiatives.

These companies represent a growing trend in Malaysia towards more sustainable and responsible business practices, which align with national and global sustainability goals.

What is SDG, and how does it benefit companies in Malaysia?

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of 17 interconnected global objectives established by the United Nations in 2015 to address various social, economic, and environmental challenges by 2030. For SDG business in Malaysia, aligning with the SDGs can bring five main benefits:

1. Enhanced Reputation

Companies that contribute to SDGs often enjoy improved public perception and brand value, which can lead to increased customer loyalty and market share.

2. Access to New Markets

Addressing SDGs can open up new business opportunities, particularly in emerging markets focused on sustainable solutions.

3. Improved Stakeholder Relationships

Alignment with SDGs can strengthen relationships with employees, investors, regulators, and local communities, fostering a supportive business environment.

4. Risk Mitigation

By addressing sustainability issues, companies can better manage long-term risks related to resource scarcity, climate change, and regulatory changes.

5. Innovation Driver

The SDGs can inspire innovation in products, services, and business models, increasing efficiency and competitiveness.

What are examples of sustainable development in Malaysia?

Malaysia has implemented various sustainable development initiatives across different sectors. Here is the list of 5 notable sustainable developments in Malaysia:

1. Renewable Energy Projects

The Large Scale Solar (LSS) program and the development of hydroelectric power plants in Sarawak demonstrate Malaysia’s commitment to clean energy.

2. Sustainable Cities

Initiatives like Iskandar Malaysia Low Carbon Society Blueprint and the Putrajaya Green City 2025 showcase efforts towards sustainable urban development.

3. Sustainable Agriculture

The Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification scheme promotes sustainable practices in the palm oil industry.

4. Forest Conservation

The Central Forest Spine initiative aims to connect fragmented forest landscapes, promoting biodiversity conservation.

5. Sustainable Transportation

The development of mass rapid transit systems in urban areas and the promotion of electric vehicles contribute to sustainable transportation.

What are the differences between sustainable companies and eco-friendly companies in Malaysia?

While there is often overlap between sustainable and eco-friendly companies, there are six key differences:

1. Scope of Focus

Sustainable companies in Malaysia typically address a broader range of issues, including social, economic, and environmental factors, aligning with the SDGs. Eco-friendly companies primarily focus on reducing environmental impact.

2. Long-term Perspective

Sustainable companies often have a more comprehensive, long-term strategy that considers the future impacts of their operations. Eco-friendly companies might focus more on immediate environmental concerns.

3. Holistic Approach

Sustainable companies integrate sustainability into their core business model and across all operations. Eco-friendly companies might limit their focus to specific products or processes.

4. Measurement and Reporting

Sustainable companies in Malaysia often adhere to comprehensive ESG reporting standards, such as those required by Bursa Malaysia. Eco-friendly companies might focus more on specific environmental metrics.

5. Stakeholder Engagement

Sustainable companies typically engage with a wider range of stakeholders, including employees, local communities, and investors, while eco-friendly companies might primarily focus on environmental stakeholders.

6. Economic Viability

Sustainable companies balance environmental and social goals with economic viability. Eco-friendly companies might prioritize environmental concerns even at an economic cost.

While both sustainable and eco-friendly companies contribute positively to environmental protection, sustainable companies in Malaysia tend to have a more comprehensive approach that aligns with broader national and global sustainability objectives.