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The new ACCA report, Bribery and Corruption: The Hidden Social Evil on Your Doorstep, investigates the profound impact of bribery and corruption on SMEs worldwide, underscoring the urgent need for greater transparency and stronger regulatory frameworks. The research reveals a high prevalence of bribery and corruption, with 63% of SMEs and their advisers believing that resisting such practices could result in lost business or opportunities. Despite these concerns, there is a strong recognition of the benefits of standing up to corruption: 68% agree that a robust anti-bribery policy enhances customer confidence, and 83% believe it improves their chances of securing lucrative contracts with major corporations and public sector entities. Jason Piper, ACCA’s Head of Tax and Business Law, stated, “Corruption is a poison; it distorts markets, stunts economic growth, and deters investment. Many very small businesses lack the bargaining power to refuse when small bribes are demanded. Entrepreneurs often face the tough choice between paying the bribe or losing their business, a choice that is particularly harsh for those trying to support their families.” “Our report aims to equip businesses and regulators with the insights and tools needed to combat corruption and foster an environment of transparency and trust. This includes leveraging the latest digital tools. Just as technology is used by criminals, regulators and enforcement agencies should adopt it to detect, prevent, and respond to corruption.” Andrew Lim, Portfolio Head, ACCA Maritime Southeast Asia, added, “Bribery and corruption remain significant challenges for SMEs in Malaysia and the Asia Pacific region. It is essential for businesses to maintain their integrity while competing in a challenging market. By promoting transparency and ethical conduct, SMEs can overcome these obstacles and build a more resilient and equitable business environment.” The report draws on extensive global data, expert opinions, and real-world case studies to examine the multifaceted impacts of corrupt practices on SMEs and economic development. It highlights the severe consequences businesses can face, including legal penalties and significant damage to their reputations. Additionally, the report evaluates the effectiveness of current anti-corruption laws and policies across various countries, noting that while progress has been made, much work remains to align international efforts. Piper emphasized, “As global markets become increasingly interconnected, the need for accountability and ethical business practices is more critical than ever.” ACCA hopes this report will act as a catalyst for change, encouraging organizations across all sectors to evaluate their practices and adhere to the highest standards of business conduct. The report is highly recommended for business leaders, policymakers, and regulatory bodies worldwide committed to eradicating corruption and fostering a fairer business environment. Read the report here.

Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s premier travel platform, has forged a strategic partnership with Filipino low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific (CEB) to enhance tourism in the Philippines. By integrating an application programming interface (API) into Traveloka’s app, this collaboration will allow inbound travelers to easily book CEB flights, simplifying travel planning to the Philippines. In line with Traveloka’s mission to aid Southeast Asia’s tourism recovery post-pandemic, this initiative aims to bolster Philippine tourism, making it more accessible for international visitors to discover the country’s vibrant destinations. The Philippines’ tourism sector has shown remarkable growth, with the Department of Tourism recording over 5.4 million foreign visitors in 2023 and aiming for 7.7 million in 2024. Reflecting this trend, Traveloka reported a 2.5-fold increase in searches for the top five Philippine airports in 2024 compared to the previous year. Popular destinations on the Traveloka platform include Manila, Laguindingan, Cebu, Davao, Boracay, and Palawan. Iko Putera, CEO of Transport Traveloka, stated, “Traveloka recognizes the Philippines’ immense potential for sustainable tourism. We invite travelers from Malaysia and Southeast Asia to explore the Philippines. Our partnership with Cebu Pacific, a leading and affordable airline, will offer diverse travel options and foster innovation to provide the best solutions for our customers. We are committed to driving growth in the tourism industry both in the Philippines and the wider region.” Xander Lao, President and Chief Commercial Officer of Cebu Pacific, expressed, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Traveloka to support local tourism and facilitate easier travel to the Philippines. The Philippines boasts some of the world’s best beaches, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. We invite global travelers to fly with Cebu Pacific and experience our country’s beauty, now more accessible through our partnership with Traveloka.” Discover the Magic of the Philippines The Philippines, renowned for its diverse attractions, offers something for every traveler. From diving and snorkeling in the marine paradise of Coron Island in Palawan to unwinding on Boracay’s famous white sand beaches, the Philippines caters to both adventurers and those seeking tranquility. The historic city of Vigan, with its unique blend of Filipino and Spanish architecture, offers a captivating journey into the past. Visitors can find serenity in Bohol’s natural landscapes, engage in thrilling activities in Davao, or savor local delicacies in Bacolod. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the collections at Manila’s National Museum of Fine Arts and the National Museum of Natural History. For spiritual journeys, the Manila Cathedral, San Agustin Church, and Quiapo Church, home to the revered Black Nazarene, offer serene experiences. Discover more about these hidden gems on Traveloka. Traveloka has also observed a fivefold increase in bookings for Cebu Pacific flights from Southeast Asian travelers compared to the previous year. Notably, Malaysia ranks among the top six countries with the highest number of travelers to the Philippines, followed by Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Australia. This partnership between Traveloka and Cebu Pacific provides international travelers with more flight options to explore the Philippines’ stunning tourist spots. To further facilitate travel planning, Traveloka offers special deals and updates through its app and official social media channels.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (the Centre) is the first Malaysian venue to receive a ‘Healthy Venue’ certification from the Healthy Venues organisation. The Centre has achieved the Healthy Venue’s Bronze Level accreditation. The recognition, granted only to venues that integrate wellness into events by prioritising healthier eating, movement, and workplace health, reinforces the Centre’s ongoing efforts to improve the overall delegate experience and increase meeting productivity by providing a conducive event environment that promotes health and well-being. Commenting on this achievement, John Burke, the Centre’s General Manager, stated that, “Reflecting our commitment to present the right environment for learning, business or leisure, this new milestone further strengthens our position as a world-class venue and industry leader on par with global standards. Research has shown that healthy meeting environments can improve delegate productivity and leave them with positive experiences and memories of the events they attend. This accreditation will not only enhance the confidence of event organisers in our venue but will also help them attract more delegates to their events here.” To achieve this certification, the Centre had to comply with a variety of stringent requirements set by the Healthy Venues organisation. These requirements included demonstrating catering practices that support national dietary guidelines, ensuring that at least 25% of menu items on offer are healthy options, providing a choice of low or no-sugar drinks where drinks are served, providing free drinking water on site, promoting active meetings to event planners and implementing a written policy to promote physical activity and healthy eating in the workplace. The Centre has also incorporated conversations around healthy meetings in its interactions with clients and organisers, at relevant stages, and provides the option to further customise menus to increase healthy items offered. Its flexible spaces can also be transformed to cater to recreational and relaxing activities within the event area, promoting physical and mental wellness amidst a hectic conference, exhibition or meeting programme. As part of its organisational commitment, the Centre’s team members are also encouraged to adopt an active lifestyle and to utilise active travel options when commuting to and from work. The venue also works closely with its hotel and leisure partners to conduct awareness and wellness exercises for the wider community around the Kuala Lumpur City Centre precinct. “Moving forward together can take us to greater heights thus, all our initiatives and programmes are aimed at benefiting not only our clients and guests but also our team members and the surrounding communities,” concluded Burke.