The SME ESG START Symposium 2024, themed Forward Faster: Scaling SME Sustainability through Supply Chain, which took place in Johor, brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and SMEs to explore the critical integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into supply chains. Organised by the UN Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei (UNGCMYB) in collaboration with Majlis Bandaraya Pasir Gudang (MBPG) and key partners including the Port of Tanjung Pelepas and Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad, this flagship event empowered SMEs with the tools and knowledge needed to drive sustainable practices, enhance resilience, and capture new market opportunities.
The symposium underscored the pivotal role of SMEs in Malaysia’s transition toward a sustainable economy. With expert sessions and insightful discussions led by distinguished speakers, participants gained practical insights into aligning their business strategies with ESG frameworks, fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, and scaling their impact in global supply chains.
“The SME ESG START Symposium is a timely platform for SMEs to understand the urgency of adopting ESG practices, especially in today’s rapidly evolving market landscape,” said Faroze Nadar, Executive Director of UNGCMYB. “By equipping SMEs with the right guidance and tools, we are helping them to not only meet regulatory expectations but also to seize the opportunities that come with a sustainable business approach.”
Highlighting the event’s focus, Dato’ Haji Mustaffa Kamal Bin Dato’ Haji Shamsudin, Mayor of Pasir Gudang City, emphasised the importance of public-private collaboration in driving meaningful change: “Sustainability is not a choice—it is a necessity for businesses that want to remain relevant and resilient. This symposium is a step forward in ensuring that SMEs in Johor and beyond are equipped to thrive in a greener future.”
The symposium delivered a diverse lineup of panel discussions, fireside chats, and presentations, addressing topics such as climate action strategies, attracting investors through sustainable practices, and exploring the role of green technology investments. Notable speakers included Khairul Amalin Abd Rahman, Head of HSSES Division at Port of Tanjung Pelepas; Ananda Rajah, General Manager of Sustainability at Duopharma Biotech Berhad; Dr Kamal Amzan, CEO of Gleneagles Hospital Johor and Regional CEO of Southern & Eastern Hospitals of IHH Malaysia; Victor Chang, Founder & CEO of Solarlink Energy Sdn Bhd; Julie Leong, Executive Director of Paragon Globe Berhad; James Tan, Manager Pre Investment & Promotion; Roy Heong, Head of Strategic Partnerships & Innovation at Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad; and Afzanil Md Anuar, Deputy Director of the Green Technology Division at the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). The symposium successfully created a collaborative environment where businesses networked, exchanged ideas, and built partnerships that will propel them toward a more sustainable future.
UNGCMYB will be working closely with Johor Local Councils’ and private sector stakeholders to emphasise the importance of sustainable business practices as the State heads towards creating the Johor-Singapore State Economic Zone (JB-SEZ) and poised to become the next regional economic powerhouse.
