SINGAPORE: The Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) 2024 celebrated a cohort of 81 exemplary ESG champions dedicated to shaping a sustainable future for the region and beyond, setting new benchmarks for corporate responsibility.
Presented by regional NGO Enterprise Asia, the AREA is widely regarded as the gold standard for ESG and sustainability practices across Asia.
Beholding over 5,000 ESG programs for more than a decade, the AREA serves as a platform to showcase and provide well-deserved recognition to businesses and organisations championing sustainability, ultimately inspiring more enterprises to integrate sustainable business practices into their business strategies.
Enterprise Asia President, Richard Tsang stated in his welcome speech, “The interconnected challenges of climate change and social inequity underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to sustainability.
“By adopting ESG principles, companies can innovate boldly, reduce operational risks, attract purpose-driven talent, and earn consumer loyalty through ethical practices. This holistic approach not only aligns with global sustainability goals, but also positions businesses as champions of lasting transformative change across borders and generations,” he said.
Since 2011, the AREA has been recognising businesses from various industries while honouring their achievements in various categories. This year, over 300 submissions across 19 countries and markets have undergone a gruelling judging process based on 3 criteria: relevance, effectiveness and reach, and sustainability.
The recipients of the Responsible Business Leadership Category, which recognises visionary leaders who champion responsible entrepreneurship and embed sustainable practices in their business strategy, include Taiwan’s CTCI Group Chairman, John Yu; Far Eastern Big City Shopping Malls Co Ltd Chairperson, Philby Lee and E.SUN Bank Chairman, Joseph Huang, among others.
In addition to the categories, the AREA bestowed the Emblem of Sustainability to businesses with a longstanding commitment to sustainability.
Prior to the AREA, the International CSR & Sustainability (ICS) Summit 2024 was held on the day. The summit convened with over 300 C-suite-level executives, business leaders, and CSR practitioners from 19 countries.
Themed “Embracing The Green Shift: Maximising Business Opportunities In Sustainability”, the summit provided a regional platform for leading thought leaders and CSR practitioners to explore and implement sustainable practices.
The summit equipped attendees with the necessary tools and insights to navigate the ever-evolving sustainability landscape while also leveraging and unlocking new opportunities for growth and expansion.
Enterprise Asia Chairman, Tan Sri Dr Fong Chan Onn expressed at the summit’s opening that, “Sustainability is no longer a mere option but a necessity, a driving force that shapes how we operate, innovate, and grow. Embracing this green shift means acknowledging that our environmental responsibilities go hand-in-hand with our economic goals.
“By integrating sustainable practices into our business models, we not only protect our environment but also enhance our competitiveness, resilience, and long-term success,” he commented.
