ESG

Gambit Group, a technology-driven consortium of wealth management companies, today reinforced its commitment to meaningful community engagement by launching its Impact Partner Program and signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Hiichiikok Foundation. From left: Datuk Clifford Hii, Group CEO (Gambit Group) and Frieda Ngui, Home Manager (Hiichiikok Foundation).  The Impact Partner Program, led by Digital Trustees Berhad, a member of Gambit Group, is designed to enable structured and sustainable giving. Through the program, Gambit clients can voluntarily support selected Impact Partners via one-off contributions or structured giving through their trust distributions. At the launch event, Gambit Group contributed RM15,000, with RM5,000 each donated to three Impact Partners: the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM), Hiichiikok Foundation, and WWF-Malaysia. The MoU signing took place during “Movie Day with a Heart”, a private charity screening that brought together children, caregivers, partner organisations, and clients to celebrate community partnerships and foster meaningful engagement beyond traditional CSR activities. Datuk Clifford Hii, Group CEO of Gambit Group, said:“Through the Impact Partner Program, we aim to go beyond one-off donations and build long-term relationships with organisations creating real community impact. This program simplifies sustainable giving for our clients while supporting causes they care about. Today, we’re proud to formalise our collaboration with these organisations and look forward to partnering with more Impact Partners in the future.” From left: Lynn Lim, Group Finance Director (Gambit Group); Frieda Ngui, Home Manager (Hiichiikok Foundation); Yap Yoke Tuan, Home Assistant (Hiichiikok Foundation); Tan May Ching, Assistant Supervisor (Hiichiikok Foundation); Nalani AP Balan, Home Mother (Hiichiikok Foundation); Datuk Clifford Hii, Group CEO (Gambit Group); Alya Syahida Allias, Head of Philanthropy Partnership (WWF-Malaysia); Julian Wong, Chairman (NASOM); Cheah Zi Kah, Chief Growth Officer (Gambit Group); Lau Chung Han, Head of Product (Gambit Group).  The MoU with Hiichiikok Foundation establishes a long-term collaboration focused on supporting underprivileged children through ongoing initiatives. Frieda Ngui, Home Manager of Hiichiikok Foundation, commented:“This partnership gives us stability and confidence to expand educational support and care programs. It represents a shared commitment to giving children a brighter future and shows that corporate partners like Gambit Group believe in our mission.” Since September 2025, NASOM has also been supported under the Impact Partner framework, enabling the organisation to strengthen programmes that empower children and adults with autism. Julian Wong, NASOM Chairman, said:“Gambit Group’s generous contribution will directly enhance our services nationwide, including upgrading teaching materials, facilities, and intervention programmes, helping individuals with autism reach their full potential.” WWF-Malaysia, recognised for its environmental conservation efforts, also received support to advance work in forests, wildlife, freshwater, food, marine, and climate protection. Alya Syahida Allias, Head of Philanthropy Partnership at WWF-Malaysia, said:“This partnership demonstrates that meaningful change for people and nature is possible when we act with heart.” By combining direct donations with structured partnerships, the Impact Partner Program reflects Gambit Group’s belief that sustainable impact is built through continuity, trust, and shared purpose. The program also allows clients to integrate social impact into their wealth and legacy planning in a transparent and flexible way.

As Malaysia works toward increasing the female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) to 60% by 2033, the latest data reveals a notable gap: women’s LFPR stands at 56.4%, compared to 83.3% for men. Many single mothers face the dual responsibilities of paid employment and unpaid caregiving — a challenge often referred to as the ‘double shift’ or ‘double burden’. A 2019 survey by the Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) shows that Malaysian women spend significantly more time than men on unpaid care work, while devoting a similar number of hours to paid work. These tasks, including cooking, cleaning, and child care, are mentally demanding and time-sensitive. Inclusive Employment Initiatives by dobiQueen As part of its inclusive employment policy, dobiQueen actively hires single parents and members of the B40 community, providing meaningful opportunities, job stability, and long-term support. Most recently, the company introduced its “Single Parent Welfare Support” programme, rewarding high-performing single-parent employees with monthly incentives of up to RM500. This initiative strengthens the workforce while advancing dobiQueen’s mission to empower women and foster a supportive society. Nini Tan, Co-founder and Executive Director of dobiQueen “Empowering women and strengthening families to reclaim their time to focus on what matters most has always been core to dobiQueen’s mission,” said Nini Tan, Co-founder and Executive Director of dobiQueen.“Our Single Parent Welfare Support programme reflects our commitment to helping them build stability, confidence, and long-term success. When single parents are empowered, this strengthens families, and communities flourish from there.” Personalised Raya bags were also gifted to children in collaboration with the Dignity for Children Foundation. Dedicated to supporting underserved communities, dobiQueen regularly collaborates with NGOs such as Dignity for Children Foundation, Kintry, PichaEats, Komuniti Tukang Jahit (KTJ), and The Asli Co. These partnerships have supported single mothers, refugee mothers, and women from the B40 income group, helping them generate income and enhance skills. Malaysians Turn to Launderettes to Save Time and Energy In line with Malaysia’s social and economic inclusion goals, dobiQueen is also redefining everyday convenience. A recent customer survey reveals that families, working individuals, and students increasingly use professional launderette services to reclaim valuable time. By outsourcing laundry, customers save 150 to 300 hours a year — equivalent to 25 hours per month or 6 hours per week. This time savings allows them to reduce stress and enjoy greater flexibility in daily life. Customer data from over 15 million washes shows that: 41% of users spend extra time bonding with their children 32% use the time for dining out and social activities 19% reinvest the time into managing or growing their businesses 8% dedicate time to self-care Globally, self-service laundry services are growing rapidly, with the Asia Pacific region leading, driven by urbanisation, a growing middle-class population, and widespread smartphone adoption. With over a decade in the laundry industry, dobiQueen has gained insights into customer habits via its proprietary mobile app. The app helps users locate the nearest outlet and start washing or drying instantly via QR code scanning, removing the need for in-outlet kiosks, buttons, or tokens. “With over 90 outlets across the Klang Valley, we’ve witnessed firsthand how our laundrette services can make a meaningful impact, giving Malaysians more time and energy back in their daily lives,” said Nini Tan. Expansion Plans and Global Benchmarking dobiQueen plans to open 20 outlets per year, expanding to Sabah and Sarawak, with 10 outlets in Kota Kinabalu and 10 in Kuching. “At dobiQueen, we actively benchmark against global leaders in the laundry industry, particularly Japan and Korea, known for advanced technologies,” said Nini Tan.“While Korea leads in automation and convenience, we adapt innovations to suit Malaysian consumer behavior, prioritising trust and security. Japan remains technologically advanced but often relies on physical tokens and domestic e-payment systems. Malaysia has leapfrogged these limitations with inclusive payment options for both local and international users.” The laundry service market is valued at US$45.85 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach US$273.0 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 29.3% from 2025 to 2032.

The ESG PLUS Awards 2025 marked a milestone of celebration of sustainable excellence in Asia bringing together more than 300 corporate leaders, CEOs, founders, investors, policymakers, and sustainability practitioners from across the region, marking one of the region’s most significant celebrations of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) excellence. Held at Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur, the ceremony was officiated by YB Datuk Seri Dr. Noraini Ahmad, Deputy Minister of Women, Family & Community Development, the event honoured organisations and individuals who are shaping the future of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) leadership in a rapidly evolving global economy. This year’s Awards saw an overwhelming 400+ nominations, reflecting the rapid rise of ESG-driven commitment across sectors including energy, technology, healthcare, finance, F&B, tourism, real estate, education, and community development. About ESG PLUS: Positive Leadership. Understanding Sustainability. As one of Asia’s emerging ESG recognition platforms, the ESG PLUS Awards embraces the philosophy of “Positive Leadership. Understanding Sustainability.” The Awards recognise those who demonstrate measurable impact, strong governance, social responsibility, innovation, and long-term commitment to sustainable value creation. This year’s edition received more than 400 nominations across diverse industries, reflecting the growing corporate commitment toward ESG transformation throughout the region. “PLUS” represents the foundation of the Awards: P – Positive Leadership L – Long-Term Value Creation U – Understanding Sustainability S – Stakeholder Impact The platform honours those who demonstrate meaningful progress, measurable outcomes, and a vision for a more responsible and resilient future for Asia. Celebrating 55 Outstanding Award Recipients A total of 55 awards were presented to exemplary leaders and organisations. Among the distinguished recipients were: Leslie Gomez, The Olive Tree Group – Sustainable Leadership in F&B Award Izzana Salleh, Project Girls for Girls (G4G) – Women Empowerment & Social Impact Award Dato’ Franky Chua, Mangala Estate – ESG Changemaker in Environmental Restoration Award Dato’ Simon Foong, Aquawalk Berhad – Honorary Impact Award, Marine Sustainability & Conservation Other honourees included influential organisations and emerging leaders from across Asia, each demonstrating how ESG strengthens competitiveness, community impact, and enterprise resilience. ESG Leadership Dialogue: “The ESG Balancing Act: Profit, People & Planet in Today’s Economy” One of the highlights of the programme was the ESG Leadership Dialogue, themed: “The ESG Balancing Act: Profit, People & Planet in Today’s Economy.” This high-impact conversation explored how modern organisations can balance commercial objectives with societal expectations and environmental stewardship — and how leaders must integrate ESG into business strategy, operations, culture, and stakeholder engagement. The panel featured respected industry leaders, including: Leslie Gomez, Founder, The Olive Tree Group Penny Choo, Co-Founder, BloomThis Chong Kai Wooi, CEO, OCK Digital Sdn Bhd Norhisham Abd Bahrin, Partner, Azmi & Associates Daryl Foong, CEO, Aquawalk Berhad Dato’ Franky Chua, Managing Director & Founder of Franky Group of Companies Their discussion offered practical insights, case studies, and lessons learned from implementing ESG principles across diverse sectors. ESG PLUS Awards 2025 was further strengthened by the support of three strategic partners and judges: Convene ESG, Heng Cheng Zin of Baker Tilly Malaysia as the Advisory & ESG Assurance Partner; and ESG Association Malaysia (ESGAM). Their contributions enhanced the credibility and benchmarking standards of the Awards evaluation framework. A Celebration of Progress, Purpose & Collective Responsibility The ESG PLUS Awards 2025 underscored a powerful regional shift: sustainability is now a strategic cornerstone of business competitiveness, investor confidence, and long-term value creation. Chairwoman of the ESG PLUS Awards 2025, Puan Sri Dato’ Akmal Abdul Salam, applauded all recipients, stating that the awardees “exemplify how purpose-driven leadership can reshape industries, uplift communities, and accelerate Asia’s journey towards a more responsible, resilient and human-centred future.” The event concluded on a celebratory note, reaffirming that sustainability is no longer a peripheral initiative but a strategic imperative for organisations aiming to thrive amid global challenges and rising stakeholder expectations.

Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) is partnering with China Jiangsu International Technology Corp Group Ltd (CJI) to develop the Kuching Low Carbon Hub (KLCH). Petros signed a framework agreement with CJI and memoranda of understanding with seven other leading Chinese green-economy companies in Nanjing, China, last Thursday. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The Sarawak Public Communications Unit said the strong interest from these companies highlights KLCH’s potential as a globally connected low-carbon industrial hub. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg noted that the collaboration with CJI and the other Chinese firms could attract up to US$7 billion (RM28.7 billion) in green-economy investments over the next decade. “The investment in KLCH will boost Sarawak’s economy, raise GDP, and create numerous high-skilled job opportunities, improving household incomes,” he said after the signing ceremony. Also attending were Sarawak Deputy Minister for Utilities Datuk Ibrahim Baki, Petros chairman Tan Sri Hamid Bugo, group CEO Datuk Janin Girie, and CJI chairman Song Qinbo and president Zhu Xingbao. Abang Johari explained that KLCH aims to draw industries focused on low-carbon and green-energy solutions, leveraging Sarawak’s natural gas, water resources, renewable hydropower, and carbon storage potential. “These advantages make Sarawak an attractive destination for global companies producing low-carbon and green products, especially for markets in ASEAN, East Asia, and beyond,” he added.

In response to the recent floods, banks in Malaysia are providing a wide range of relief measures to assist affected customers. These measures include the deferment of loan or financing instalments, giving temporary financial relief to individuals and businesses struggling with the impact of flooding. Additionally, banks are offering special financing facilities to help customers repair and restore their homes, businesses, and other properties damaged by the floods. In a joint statement issued today, the Association of Banks in Malaysia (ABM) and the Association of Islamic Banking and Financial Institutions of Malaysia (AIBIM) emphasised that the banking industry is committed to supporting customers through these challenging times. The organisations highlighted that banks are taking proactive steps to reduce the financial burden on affected individuals and businesses while ensuring uninterrupted access to essential banking services. Other relief initiatives include the waiver of fees for replacing damaged bank documents, cards, and cheques, as well as providing financial assistance and adaptation facilities specifically tailored for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) affected by flood damage. Banks are also facilitating the exchange of damaged banknotes, ensuring customers can access funds safely and securely. The associations urged customers to contact their banks through official and reliable channels, including bank branches, websites, online banking platforms, and official social media accounts, for information on available assistance programs. They cautioned customers to remain vigilant against potential scams and to avoid engaging with unauthorised parties claiming to represent financial institutions. To ensure transparency and accessibility, ABM and AIBIM noted that customers can refer to the list of member banks on their official websites for updated information regarding flood relief measures. They also confirmed that member banks will continue taking all necessary steps to maintain access to essential banking services in affected areas. The statement further indicated that banks will provide ongoing updates on relief efforts and service availability through official communication channels, reaffirming the commitment of Malaysia’s banking sector to support communities and businesses in navigating the aftermath of the floods. This coordinated effort reflects the banking industry’s role in not only providing financial services but also in strengthening resilience and recovery for individuals, families, and businesses impacted by natural disasters.

In the global push for net zero, many companies talk about sustainability, but few manage to turn words into action. FGV Holdings Bhd stands out as one of the rare exceptions. Once primarily known as an agribusiness giant, FGV is quietly evolving into a renewable energy (RE) leader under group CEO Dato’ Fakhrunniam Othman. Today, FGV operates one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse renewable energy portfolios, spanning biogas, biomass, biomethane, solar, and certified biofuels. By converting palm oil by-products into clean, exportable energy, the company is powering homes, industries, and export markets. For FGV, sustainability is not just about carbon targets—it is about redefining the palm oil business, turning it into a catalyst for climate action while driving growth. From Waste to Energy: Building a Circular Economy Palm oil production generates large quantities of organic residues such as palm oil mill effluent (POME), empty fruit bunches (EFB), mesocarp fibre, and palm kernel shells (PKS). If left untreated, these wastes release methane, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide. Through 24 biogas plants—the largest network among Malaysian plantation peers—FGV captures methane and converts it into electricity, which is sold to Tenaga Nasional Bhd under the Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) scheme. Biomass residues are used to generate heat and steam for mills, creating a total renewable energy output of approximately 150MW: 100MW from biogas and biomass, and an additional 50MW from biofuel through PKS utilisation. These initiatives bring FGV closer to its 200MW Net Zero 2050 target. At the company’s mills, by-products are upcycled into fertiliser or fuel, while compost from EFB and POME enriches the soil, improving yields—a simple yet powerful example of circular economy principles. Flagship projects like the Triang Biogas Plant in Pahang and the Umas Plant in Tawau showcase how renewable energy can deliver both financial and social impact, powering tens of thousands of homes. Cutting Carbon, Driving Impact In 2024 alone, FGV exported 33,438MWh of biogas electricity, reducing approximately 25,882 tonnes of CO₂ emissions—an increase of 20% from the previous year. The group has pledged to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero by 2050, with targets validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Every new plant expands FGV’s methane-capture network, preventing one of the world’s most potent greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere, proving that climate leadership can coexist with operational efficiency. From Local Mills to Global Markets FGV’s renewable energy strategy also creates export value. Its Green Gold Label-certified PKS are shipped to Japan under a premium low-carbon biomass programme, while ISCC-certified feedstock qualifies for Europe’s sustainable biofuel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel supply chains. FGV is also partnering with PETRONAS and Sime Darby Plantation to produce SAF from palm oil mill waste, further advancing its renewable energy transition. Rooftop solar rollouts across mills and offices are helping diversify FGV’s RE mix while cutting electricity costs and emissions. “We are proving that Malaysia’s palm oil industry can lead in green energy exports, not just crude palm oil,” says Fakhrunniam. Policy and Partnerships Driving Growth Renewable energy projects are capital-intensive, with typical payback periods exceeding eight years. FGV mitigates risks through strategic partnerships, scale, and strict governance under GGL and ISCC standards, ensuring feedstock consistency and financial discipline. FGV’s efforts align with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), contributing to energy efficiency, renewable energy, bioenergy, and green mobility. The company is also exploring hydrogen and carbon capture for future growth. The Road Ahead FGV’s renewable energy roadmap includes expanding methane capture across all mills, scaling solar capacity, developing biomethane and bio-CNG plants, and decarbonising its logistics fleet. “Our mills are no longer just processing plants—they are power generators and biomass hubs driving the circular economy,” Fakhrunniam explains. “We are turning waste into wealth and powering a sustainable future for Malaysia.” FGV’s journey demonstrates that the palm oil sector can be part of the climate solution, proving that sustainability can be both purposeful and profitable.

Sarawak Energy Bhd (SEB) has strengthened its support for local vendors by entering new financial partnerships with Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Bhd (PUNB) and United Overseas Bank (UOB) Malaysia, aimed at enhancing vendor capacity and bolstering the resilience of its supply chain. The collaborations were formalised through two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) signed on Nov 12 at Menara Sarawak Energy. According to SEB, these partnerships will give vendors better access to financing for working capital, equipment purchases, and business expansion — ensuring smoother project delivery across SEB’s operations. Group chief executive officer Datuk Sharbini Suhaili said the initiative reflects SEB’s long-term commitment to developing a strong, inclusive vendor ecosystem. He added that SEB’s strategy is centred around building sustainable partnerships that empower local businesses to grow alongside the state-owned energy provider. “Working with financial institutions and development agencies like PUNB and UOB helps our vendors strengthen their capabilities, secure funding, and improve performance. This supports Sustainable Development Goal 17 by advancing partnerships that foster a resilient and inclusive supply chain for Sarawak,” he said. SEB said its Vendor Development Programme (VDP) focuses on improving governance, boosting technical competencies, and creating structured engagement pathways for its supplier network. Complementing this is the Vendor Financing Programme, developed with multiple banking partners to widen access to financial support. The company noted that participation from local vendors rose by over 70% in 2024 compared to the previous year, with most contracts awarded to Sarawak-based businesses. SEB attributed this growth to its continuous efforts to build local supplier capability and promote inclusive economic development in the state. Sharbini added that SEB has also worked with other financial institutions over the years, including Bank Islam, RHB Bank, SME Bank, and Ikhtiar Factoring, to provide vendor financing solutions.

Saxon Renewables today announced the official registration of its EVolve Grouped Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Project under the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) by Verra (Project ID: 5416), registered on 6 November 2025, marking a regional milestone in bridging climate finance and clean mobility across Asia. The project is registered under the Verra VM0038 Methodology for Electric Vehicle Charging Systems, which enables emissions reductions to be quantified and issued as Verified Carbon Units (VCUs) by comparing electricity consumed for EV charging against emissions that would have been generated from equivalent travel in internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Designed to accelerate the growth of electric mobility, EVolve connects carbon-credit revenue directly to the commercial model of EV-charging deployment. By integrating carbon monetisation into charging infrastructure, the project closes critical financing gaps that often slow EV adoption. Under EVolve’s grouped approach, multiple EV-charging networks can be aggregated under a unified methodology and monitoring system, significantly reducing registration costs, complexity, and time-to-market for charge point operators (CPOs). “By unlocking new carbon revenue streams, we help charge point operators, fleet owners, and infrastructure partners scale faster, reduce payback periods, and enable more cities to accelerate EV adoption,” said Reik Ong, Managing Director of Saxon Renewables. “The voluntary market is already responding positively to EVolve, with buyers actively seeking high-integrity transportation credits. Our next phase is to prepare EVolve for compliance channels such as Singapore’s carbon tax and CORSIA, which would significantly broaden market demand and strengthen long-term price resilience.” As the first grouped EV-charging carbon project of its kind in Southeast Asia (excluding Singapore), EVolve will progressively onboard charge point operators across Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, with an expansion pipeline to broader Asia-Pacific markets. The project targets the deployment and integration of 30,000 charge points by 2030. Registered for a seven-year crediting period (2024–2031), with renewal options for up to two additional periods, EVolve is expected to generate approximately 300,000 tonnes of CO₂e in verified emissions reductions over its initial term. The programme directly supports national EV roadmaps, corporate net-zero targets, and potential Article 6 cooperation pathways under the Paris Agreement, offering a scalable model for cities to accelerate electrification while maintaining market integrity. Transport accounts for approximately 15 percent of global greenhouse-gas emissions. By bridging finance gaps and incentivising widespread EV infrastructure, EVolve empowers cities and businesses to transition toward cleaner, low-carbon mobility. EVolve represents a scalable blueprint for accelerating EV infrastructure across Asia’s emerging markets, reinforcing Saxon Renewables’ mission to power credible, high-impact climate solutions.

Swift Haulage Bhd is set to continue focusing on strengthening its market position through initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency and advancing sustainability across its operations. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the integrated logistics services provider noted that it continues to see steady demand across its core business segments, particularly in warehousing and forwarding services, which remain key drivers of its growth. For the third quarter ended September 30, 2025, Swift Haulage reported a net profit of RM7.14 million, up from RM5.77 million in the same period last year. The increase was mainly attributed to higher gross profit and other income, although this was partially offset by increased operating overheads. Revenue for the quarter rose to RM200.97 million, compared with RM183.06 million a year earlier, largely driven by container haulage, which contributed RM74 million, and land transportation, which added RM69 million. Together, these two segments accounted for 71.2% of the group’s total revenue during the period. For the nine-month period ended September 30, 2025, Swift Haulage recorded revenue of RM578.88 million, up from RM535.28 million in the previous corresponding period. However, net profit for the nine months fell to RM21.11 million from RM35.25 million previously, reflecting a combination of higher operating costs and investments in growth initiatives. The company emphasized that it remains committed to enhancing its service capabilities, including investing in advanced logistics technologies and expanding its network to better serve customers. In addition, Swift Haulage continues to integrate sustainable practices into its operations, aligning with broader industry trends towards greener logistics solutions. By focusing on operational excellence, innovation, and sustainability, Swift Haulage aims to solidify its market leadership and deliver long-term value to shareholders while meeting the evolving needs of the logistics sector.

Indonesia’s cocoa industry plays a crucial role in both local economies and global markets. However, declining productivity, aging trees, and the growing impacts of climate change continue to challenge its long-term sustainability. To address these issues, Sugata (PT Kudeungoe Sugata), a purpose-driven cocoa enterprise focused on sustainable livelihoods and environmental restoration, is leading efforts to advance regenerative cocoa production with support from KOLTIVA and global partners, including Unilever, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and EY through the TRANSFORM Bestari Challenge. The initiative aims to accelerate innovation for smallholder farmers by integrating digital traceability, climate-smart agriculture training, and inclusive financing models. By combining Sugata’s community-based approach with KOLTIVA’s proven technology ecosystem—including KoltiTrace for farm-to-bar traceability and KoltiSkills for training delivery—the collaboration seeks to build a resilient cocoa value chain that drives income diversification and supports forest conservation. Founded in 2018, Sugata has established itself as one of Indonesia’s first bean-to-bar enterprises sourcing directly from smallholders. Its mission to regenerate degraded lands and restore livelihoods positions the company as a frontrunner in sustainable cocoa innovation. Located in the eastern flank of Aceh’s 2.6 million-hectare Leuser Ecosystem, one of the world’s last intact tropical rainforests and home to Sumatran tigers, elephants, rhinos, and orangutans, the province’s cocoa belt supports local communities. With over 101,000 hectares of cocoa and an annual output of 41,000 tons, Aceh ranks as Indonesia’s fourth-largest cocoa producer. The region’s forests, rivers, lakes, and peatlands provide ecosystem services—including clean water for four million people—valued at over US$600 million annually. Yet, aging trees, pests, erratic weather, and deforestation threaten both livelihoods and ecosystems, with 20% of lowland forests lost over the past five years. Global policy drivers such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and corporate zero-deforestation pledges are steering cocoa toward a new era. Regenerative cocoa, cultivated under biodiverse canopies and managed through agroforestry, nutrient recycling, and digital traceability, is not only a conservation strategy but also a pathway to long-term profitability and regulatory compliance. In 2024, the TRANSFORM Bestari Challenge, co-led by Unilever, FCDO, and EY, invited Indonesian enterprises to pilot solutions advancing the SDGs, offering grants of up to £300,000. The accelerator combines funding with tailored business support to address complex development challenges. In October 2024, Sugata was named one of three winners, securing funding to pilot regenerative cocoa in Southeast Aceh. This 18-month project brings together Sugata, KOLTIVA, Unilever, FCDO, and EY to make regenerative cocoa measurable, scalable, and commercially viable. Sugata engaged KOLTIVA as its implementation partner to deliver digital traceability, farm-level training, and real-time data-driven decision-making. The initiative includes five integrated workstreams: Gender Action Learning System (GALS), Demo Plot Management, Regenerative Agriculture and Agroforestry, Cocoa Waste Management, and GHG Monitoring. These efforts embed sustainability into every pod, plot, and producer decision, demonstrating that regenerative cocoa production can balance productivity, profitability, and environmental stewardship. Joe Keen Poon, Executive Chairman of KOLTIVA, said:“What we’re building with Sugata, Unilever, and FCDO in Aceh is more than a project—it’s a blueprint for responsible cocoa. Smallholders deserve not just compliance requirements, but technology, training, and fair opportunities to thrive in global markets. By integrating real-time farm data, gender-inclusive decision-making, and carbon tracking, we are proving that regeneration and profitability can go hand in hand.” Since late 2024, Sugata and KOLTIVA have co-developed training curricula, secured demonstration sites, and trained master trainers for field implementation. Within the first year, more than 500 cocoa producers across 21 villages have received training through KoltiSkills. Ten regenerative demo plots with live emissions tracking have been established, five biochar units convert cocoa waste into compost, 173 plots have been surveyed for GHG baselines, and over 100 households have adopted gender-inclusive decision-making models through GALS. Jessica Pauline, Country Lead for Finance & Business Development at Unilever Indonesia, said:“Sugata demonstrates strong commitment to positive social and environmental change. Impact enterprises like Sugata are essential to solving global sustainability challenges. Beyond funding, TRANSFORM leverages cross-sector collaboration to help enterprises scale their impact.” Despite challenges such as erratic weather and varying digital literacy, the initiative is already showing how technology, data, and inclusive participation can reshape cocoa farming—delivering measurable environmental benefits, diversified incomes, and greater resilience for smallholder communities.