ESG

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) today celebrated the conclusion of the 19th edition of the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest (DCAC) 2025/26, highlighting its highest-ever participation of 6,508 submissions from children nationwide. The Closing Ceremony, held at the One World Hotel, brought together participants, educators, and distinguished guests to recognise the creativity, imagination, and community impact of young Malaysians. The contest drew entries from 96 schools, involving more than 72,000 students across preschool, primary and secondary levels. Since its introduction globally in 2004, and now in its 19th edition in Malaysia, this year’s edition marks an increase of 3,387 submissions, more than doubling last year’s participation, highlighting the contest’s growing reach and continued relevance among young Malaysians nationwide. “Through the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest, we are seeing stronger participation from students across the country, reflecting how the platform continues to resonate with young Malaysians. What stands out is the range of ideas and thought that come through when more students take part, and how this continues to raise the standard of submissions year after year. It is also encouraging to see participants grow in confidence as they express their ideas more clearly. This is how we continue to nurture creativity and a sense of responsibility, empowering them to shape their future and move their world,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor. The contest was carried out through a structured process, guiding participants from initial concepts through to submission and evaluation. Submissions were received through multiple channels, including school programmes, online entries, art schools, and physical submissions, demonstrating the accessibility and inclusivity of the initiative. Each entry is assessed for originality, creativity, and the alignment of ideas with future mobility themes. The winners of the 2025/2026 Dream Car Art Contest from Malaysia in three different age categories are as follows: Group 1 (7 years old and under)· 1st Prize: Mia Lee Su Wei· 2nd Prize: Hiew Zi Feng· 3rd Prize: Javene Chah· Consolation Prize: Chia Leen Xyn & Chean Zi Shin Group 2 (Age 8 – 11 years old)· 1st Prize: Elise Kong· 2nd Prize: Ng Kai Qing· 3rd Prize: Agnes Yoon· Consolation Prize: Charice Foo & Nathan Mah Group 3 (Age 12 – 15 years old)· 1st Prize: Liew Pei Han· 2nd Prize: Isaac Lee· 3rd Prize: Lau Viteng· Consolation Prize: Yong Zhe Kai & Yap Xing Ee Top entries will advance to the international stage, representing Malaysia at the World Toyota Dream Car Art Contest in Japan, offering the global community a glimpse into the imagination and talent of Malaysian youth. Since its inception, the Toyota Dream Car Art Contest has been a key initiative in UMWT’s commitment to education, creativity, and community development, inspiring generations of children to dream, create, and contribute towards a sustainable future.

Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad (The Group) has released its Integrated Annual Report (IAR) for the financial year 2025, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable shareholder value creation and strong corporate governance. The alignment with National Sustainability Reporting Framework (NSRF) and adoption of International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) reflects the Group’s intent to move beyond disclosure for compliance to addressing investors growing demand for consistent and reliable sustainability data. Carlsberg Malaysia Annual Report 2025. The IAR 2025 reported on the Group’s approach in leveraging data-driven sustainability and climate insights into identification of key material risks from its annual materiality review. The brewer is guided by its sustainability ambition to safeguard its licence to operate and achieve zero carbon emission within the brewery operations by 2032, amid rising energy costs, increasing regulatory scrutiny and more frequent extreme weather events. Three material matters were prioritised: Responsible Drinking & Marketing and Energy Management under the IFRS S1 (General Requirements for Disclosure of Sustainability-related Financial Information), and its efforts to improve Climate Resilience under IFRS S2 (Climate-related Disclosures). It is a step change in how the Group mitigates risks and optimises opportunities, strengthening operational resilience and future-proofing the business. Under IFRS S2, climate risk assessments identified exposure to energy price volatility, carbon-related transition risks and physical risks linked to increased rainfall intensity and water availability. These assessments guided operational actions during the year, including higher energy efficiency management, the transition to Malaysia Renewable Energy Certificates (M-RECs) from I-REC, which resulted in savings of RM0.18 million, exploration on biomass energy as an alternate source to natural gas, and the feasibility study of Solar Power Purchase Agreements. Together, these initiatives supported the Group’s decarbonisation pathway while helping to reduce exposure to long-term energy cost volatility. The Group also strengthened climate-resilience measures at its brewery to mitigate potential disruption risks arising from heavier rainfall patterns, reinforcing asset protection and business continuity planning. The Group also highlighted the importance of responsible drinking and marketing as IFRS S1 to address integrity and compliance risks associated with operating in a tightly regulated industry. During the year, the Group reinforced strict marketing governance, enhanced brand safety controls and compliance with local advertising standards, reaffirming its decade-long #CELEBRATERESPONSIBLY commitments. A total of RM6.73 million was spent on responsible drinking, sales and marketing efforts, through packaging, point-of-sales materials, consumer-facing events and strategic partnerships, to mitigate every possible reputational risk of non-compliance. On the governance front, Carlsberg Malaysia became the first Carlsberg market globally and the first local beverage manufacturing company certified by SIRIM QAS International to attain ISO 37001:2025 Anti-Bribery Management System certification. The upgraded standard places greater emphasis on Board oversight and integrity risk management, reflecting heightened expectations on corporate conduct and accountability. The Group’s efforts in overall sustainability performance were recognised through multiple awards and external benchmarks during the year, including being named the Highest Return on Equity at The Edge Billion Ringgit Club Awards for the sixth consecutive year, and achieving an improved FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia score of 3.8. Another notable achievement is Carlsberg Malaysia’s improved MSCI ESG rating, moving from AA to AAA. Stefano Clini, Managing Director of  Carlsberg Malaysia. Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia, Stefano Clini said, “Despite a challenging operating environment in 2025, we delivered a resilient performance, continuing its six-year track record of profitability through disciplined execution of our Accelerate SAIL strategy and our sustained focus on premiumisation, innovation and operational efficiency.” “In 2025, the adoption of IFRS S1 and S2 marked an important step in how we integrate sustainability risks and opportunities with everyday business decision-making. By strengthening climate, energy and governance disciplines, we are better positioned to manage uncertainties and remain focused on creating sustainable value while strengthening climate resilience,” Clini added. In March this year, Carlsberg Malaysia launched its refreshed sustainability strategy – Brewing Tomorrow, focusing on four pillars: Cutting Carbon, Protecting Nature, Empowering People and Inspiring Choice. Brewing Tomorrow reflects a renewed, science-backed ambition to reduce the Group’s impact on people and the planet.

In today’s environment of trade tariffs, geopolitical tensions and changing regulations, some businesses have quietly scaled back their sustainability commitments by delaying net-zero goals, reducing ESG programmes and taking a wait-and-see approach. According to experts at ACCA’s annual Sustainability Conference, this could prove to be a costly mistake. Held virtually on Earth Day and attended by finance professionals from more than 100 countries, the conference highlighted that sustainability is no longer just a moral issue, but a financial one. Businesses that fail to integrate sustainability into their core strategies may be exposing themselves to growing risks that are already impacting operations and profitability. ACCA Head of Sustainable Business Sharon Machado said sustainability should not be treated as a side initiative, but as part of overall business strategy and risk management. She noted that concerns such as geopolitical disruption, supply chain instability, commodity shortages and extreme weather impacts are all closely linked to sustainability challenges. Risk, finance and sustainability leader Andrea Amaize said many organisations that have reduced their sustainability efforts are trying to balance long-term goals with short-term financial pressures. However, she said the immediate effects of sustainability issues are already being felt. Climate change is influencing the cost and availability of insurance, purchasing decisions increasingly include decarbonisation requirements, access to lower-cost capital is becoming linked to sustainability performance, and talent is increasingly drawn to purpose-driven organisations. Speakers at the conference also stressed that sustainability should not be seen only as a cost, but as a driver of profitability. Strong sustainability strategies can create new revenue opportunities, lower operating costs, improve resilience, strengthen brand value and build competitive advantage. Amaize added that companies must clearly demonstrate how sustainability creates measurable financial outcomes, with finance professionals playing an important role in proving that link.

RHB Banking Group (“RHB” or “the Group”) has been upgraded from AA to AAA in the MSCI ESG Rating, the highest rating available, placing the bank among the leading global financial institutions for managing environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks and opportunities. The upgrade reflects growing confidence among global investors in RHB’s ability to deliver sustainable growth through its progress in sustainable finance, reducing financed emissions in key sectors, and strengthening governance and risk management practices. As of FY2025, RHB has cumulatively mobilised around RM60 billion in sustainable financial services and is targeting RM90 billion by 2027. The Group has also achieved a 13.2% reduction in financed emissions across five priority high-emission sectors compared with its 2022 baseline, as well as a 49% reduction in operational greenhouse gas emissions against its 2016 baseline. RHB Group Managing Director and Group CEO Dato’ Mohd Rashid Mohamad said the upgrade reflects the Group’s progress in embedding sustainability into its operations. He said sustainability is integrated into how the bank allocates capital, manages risk and supports customers through transition journeys, while creating long-term value for stakeholders. Beyond financing, the recognition also highlights RHB’s stronger climate risk governance, operational resilience and responsible business practices. The Group has established climate risk management frameworks that include board-level oversight, scenario analysis and stress testing to support decision-making. RHB continues to advance its net-zero goals, targeting carbon neutral operations by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050, while continuing to lower both financed and operational emissions. These efforts are supported by the Group’s Sustainable and Transition Finance Framework, which aims to improve governance, transparency and consistency in financing activities. RHB also continues to promote financial inclusion across its key markets, having supported more than 1.5 million individuals and businesses, with a target of 2.5 million by 2027. The Group has also strengthened its workforce and governance practices, including achieving close to 40% women representation in senior leadership, enhancing sustainability skills among employees, and improving responsible supply chain standards. MSCI ESG Ratings are widely used by global investors and assess more than 17,000 issuers worldwide. The ratings measure how companies manage financially relevant ESG risks and opportunities relative to industry peers, with AAA representing the highest level of ESG leadership. RHB’s sustainability credentials are also supported by its continued inclusion in the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index, recognition by S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment, and its position among Malaysia’s leading ESG performers. Under its PROGRESS27 strategy, RHB said it will continue expanding sustainable and transition finance, strengthening ESG risk integration, and delivering solutions that support inclusive and low-carbon growth across the region.

Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS) and the Terengganu government, through the Terengganu Economic Planning Unit, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore the development of nature-based solutions (NbS) projects in the state. Under the agreement, both parties will work together to identify and assess potential sites in Terengganu for nature-based carbon projects that meet international certification standards. PETRONAS said the initiatives aim to generate high-quality carbon credits while also delivering benefits to local communities and supporting environmental conservation efforts. Nature-based solutions involve actions such as conserving, restoring and sustainably managing natural ecosystems to reduce and remove greenhouse gas emissions. The carbon credits generated from these projects will support PETRONAS in managing residual and hard-to-abate emissions, in line with its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The MoU was signed by PETRONAS senior general manager for nature and corporate sustainability Giulia Sartori and Terengganu state secretary Datuk Mohd Azmi Mohamad Daham. Sartori said the collaboration will support climate-positive initiatives that strengthen resilience, protect biodiversity and create value for local communities. She added that it builds on PETRONAS’ long-standing presence in Terengganu. Mohd Azmi said Terengganu’s natural ecosystems have strong potential to support climate change mitigation efforts. He added that the collaboration will help Malaysia reduce carbon emissions while ensuring environmental conservation benefits the people of the state.

The Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (Samenta) has launched the ASEAN Circular Economy Certification (CEC), the first certification of its kind in the region, aimed at helping small and medium enterprises (SMEs) adopt sustainable business practices and strengthen competitiveness. Samenta national president Datuk William Ng said the certification is a major step towards helping SMEs transition from the traditional linear “take-make-waste” model to a more sustainable circular economy approach. He said the initiative supports goals under the 13th Malaysia Plan, which focuses on scaling up micro, small and medium enterprises while encouraging the adoption of environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices. Ng noted that the current global energy crisis has increased business costs and disrupted supply chains, making circular economy practices more important than ever. He added that circularity is no longer optional but a strategic necessity for businesses. The programme was officially launched by Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim. According to Ng, the global circular economy market is projected to reach US$578 billion by the end of 2026 and could generate up to US$4.5 trillion in economic output by 2030. He said SMEs that adopt circular economy principles can reduce dependence on limited resources, lower energy use and protect themselves from volatile commodity prices. Developed with support from the Global Reporting Initiative, the certification offers SMEs a structured and internationally aligned framework to minimise waste and improve resource efficiency. Samenta plans to expand the programme across the region through the ASEAN SME Caucus, with the aim of harmonising sustainability standards for around 70 million SMEs in Southeast Asia. Ng said the certification will also help SMEs prepare for future extended producer responsibility regulations, which will require producers to be accountable for the full lifecycle of their products. He added that early adoption would allow SMEs to redesign products, build waste data systems and create new income opportunities by converting waste into usable raw materials. Samenta aims to bring 15,000 SMEs into the circular economy over the next three years, potentially generating more than RM3 billion in additional revenue and cost savings. To support the initiative, Samenta signed a memorandum of understanding with Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Bhd and Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd to provide certified SMEs with access to green financing and subsidised interest rates from as low as four per cent. A total of 20 SMEs received the CEC certification at the launch event, becoming the first businesses in Malaysia to receive the recognition.

For many visually impaired individuals, booking a ride has long meant relying on assistance. That experience took a step forward today as Maxim E-Hailing Malaysia, in collaboration with the Society of the Blind in Malaysia, demonstrated how voice talkback technology can support independent ride bookings at the Inclusive Mobility Seminar 2026 held at Wisma SBM. The session brought together approximately 40 visually impaired participants, who were introduced to how the Maxim app works with screen reader and voice talkback functions, allowing users to navigate the platform and arrange rides without visual input. The initiative highlighted how assistive technology can be integrated into everyday mobility services to improve independence and confidence in travel. A key highlight of the seminar was a guided live booking demonstration, where participants used voice-assisted commands to navigate the app, input destinations and simulate ride requests. The hands-on session provided a practical understanding of how the system responds to spoken input in real time, bridging the gap between digital accessibility features and real-world usage. Participants were supported throughout the session by facilitators, ensuring a structured and comfortable learning environment. The exercise allowed attendees to familiarise themselves with the application at their own pace, reinforcing confidence in using digital transport services independently. In addition to the live demonstration, participants were introduced to Maxim’s OKU-friendly tariff, including eligibility criteria, registration steps and fare structure. The briefing aimed to ensure that accessibility extends beyond app usage to include inclusive pricing options designed for the community. “Accessible technology should not be an added feature, it should be a standard. Through this initiative, we want to ensure that visually impaired users are able to navigate the Maxim app independently using voice talkback support and book rides with confidence. This seminar is part of our ongoing commitment to making everyday mobility more inclusive and empowering for all,” said Syed Abdul Syarif, Head of Division Kuala Lumpur, Maxim E-Hailing Malaysia. “I had the opportunity to experience making a booking on my own during the live demonstration, with guidance from the Maxim team. It was a very meaningful experience for me, as it showed that I can navigate the app and arrange my own rides with more confidence,” said Puan Farahin, a participant who took part in the live demo. To further enhance the session, a supervised ride simulation was conducted with a designated Maxim driver. Selected participants took part in a short demonstration ride, allowing them to experience real-world interaction, including communicating pick-up details and travel requirements in a controlled setting. “We would like to thank Maxim E-Hailing Malaysia for their commitment and willingness to collaborate with us in advancing accessible mobility. It is encouraging to see continuous efforts being made to improve digital services for the visually impaired community. Initiatives like this provide meaningful exposure and help our members gain confidence in travelling independently,” said Dr Ahmad Shamsuri, Vice President, Society of the Blind in Malaysia. For participants, the experience went beyond technical learning. It represented a practical step towards greater independence in daily travel, where digital tools and human support work together to make mobility more inclusive and accessible in real terms. The seminar builds on the ongoing Memorandum of Understanding between Maxim E-Hailing Malaysia and the Society of the Blind in Malaysia, reinforcing a shared commitment to improving mobility access for the visually impaired community through technology and collaboration. As digital platforms continue to evolve, initiatives like this demonstrate how assistive features such as voice talkback can be meaningfully integrated into essential services, enabling users to move through their daily lives with greater autonomy and confidence.

Leading homegrown power distribution specialist manufacturing low voltage (“LV”) and medium voltage electrical distribution equipment, Powerwell Holdings Berhad (“Powerwell” or the “Group”) (“佳电控股”), has marked its 40th anniversary, also known as its Ruby Anniversary, with a celebratory event held on the evening of 17 April 2026, commemorating four decades of steady growth, industry relevance, and operational resilience.  (from left to right): Mr. Tan Yee Sin, Chief Financial Officer, Ms. Tee Joe Ee, Non-Independent Non-Executive Director, Ms. Wong Yoke Yen, Managing Director, Mr. Tang Yuen Kin, Independent Non-Executive Chairman, Mr. Chong Guang Wei, Non-Independent Non-Executive Director, Mr. Soh Wei Wei, Executive Director. Reaching its Ruby Anniversary is a meaningful milestone for Powerwell. Since its establishment, the Group has grown alongside Malaysia’s industrial development, building a strong presence across key sectors while adapting to evolving market dynamics. Today, Powerwell is well positioned within high-growth segments such as data centres, renewable energy, semiconductors, and the infrastructure space, where demand for reliable and efficient power infrastructure continues to expand. At the heart of this journey is the Group’s continued emphasis on people. Powerwell has increasingly placed importance on fostering a culture that recognises and rewards employees, while strengthening its ability to attract and retain talent in an increasingly competitive landscape. Initiatives such as its talent retention programmes and Employee Share Option Scheme (“ESOS”) support alignment with the Group’s long-term growth, while providing opportunities for meaningful participation in value creation. Ms. Wong Yoke Yen, Managing Director (left) and Mr. Tan Yee Sin, Chief Financial Officer (right), presenting the grand prize, a Proton e.MAS vehicle, to the lucky draw winner, a Powerwell employee, in a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the evening and a fitting reminder that the heart of the company has always been its people. Concurrently, Powerwell continues to build its pipeline of talent to support high-value and high-tech industries. As the Group moves forward, it remains guided by its purpose of empowering possibilities for its customers, employees and partners. As Powerwell marks this milestone, the Group remains guided by its tagline of ‘Empowering Possibilities’, as the Group continues to build on its established foundation and capture the exciting opportunities ahead to deliver sustainable growth in the years to come. The anniversary celebration brought together employees, management, customers, suppliers, and stakeholders in a night of appreciation and camaraderie. In a reflection of the Group’s shared pride and journey, a Proton e.MAS vehicle took centre stage as the grand prize of the night’s lucky draw. The choice of a homegrown brand mirrors Powerwell’s own journey as a Malaysian company that has grown and established itself over the decades.

Samaiden Group Bhd and Tan Boon Ming Sdn Bhd (TBM) have launched their first in-store solar consumer experience at Bangsar Village, marking a key milestone in their partnership. The initiative allows customers to explore live solar panel displays, consult with advisors, and take steps towards installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for their homes—all within a retail setting. It also introduces integrated smart energy solutions to help homeowners better manage and optimise their energy use. Samaiden’s chief strategy officer Tee Wu Shun said the collaboration aims to make clean energy more accessible by bringing solar solutions into familiar retail environments. He added that rising energy needs, including electric vehicle (EV) charging and higher electricity costs, are driving demand for smarter energy solutions that allow homeowners to generate, store and manage their own power more efficiently. TBM’s general manager Tan Wai Keat said the initiative reflects the company’s evolving role from an appliance retailer to a provider of comprehensive home energy solutions. He noted that as energy consumption grows, combining solar generation with smart energy management is becoming increasingly essential rather than optional. Both companies said the Bangsar Village launch is the first phase of a wider rollout across TBM outlets nationwide, with plans to expand into commercial and SME segments. They added that the partnership will also explore future innovations, including energy storage and integrated home energy management systems.

Singapore-based investor Circulate Capital, which finances companies that recycle plastics and develop eco-friendly packaging, has raised US$220 million (RM885.94 million) for its second Asia fund, despite a global slowdown in ESG-focused investment. The first close of Circulate Capital Asia Fund II brings the firm’s total assets under management to US$480 million, according to CEO Rob Kaplan. The new fund is supported by Builders Vision, the family office of Walmart founder Sam Walton’s grandson, existing corporate investors such as The Coca-Cola Co, and new institutional backers including the Emerging Markets Climate Action Fund, co-managed by Allianz Global Investors. The raise comes amid a challenging year for ESG funds, with many seeing significant outflows, underscoring Circulate Capital’s focus on combining financial returns with environmental impact. Chris Wu, vice-president of Builders Vision, said, “Financial performance and impact aren’t trade-offs—they should go hand-in-hand. With Circulate, we saw an opportunity to achieve strong market-rate returns while driving meaningful environmental outcomes.” Circulate Capital Asia Fund II aims to reach US$300 million by the end of 2026, targeting net internal rates of return of around 20%. The fund will invest in companies across South and Southeast Asia, with average investment sizes of US$15–25 million. While plastics recycling remains the core focus, the fund will also explore other circular economy sectors, such as sustainable fabrics and packaging. Since launching its first Asia fund in 2019 with over US$100 million, backed by major plastics producers and users including Dow Inc and Chevron Phillips Chemical Co, Circulate has expanded with additional funds targeting Asia and Latin America. Kaplan emphasized that partnering with major corporations, even those contributing to plastic waste, is essential to addressing the problem effectively. Circulate supports investee companies in aggregating and processing plastic waste, connecting them with buyers of recycled goods. Notable portfolio companies include Srichakra Polyplast Pvt Ltd and Thailand’s Union J Plus.