After a full day of reviewing submissions and listening to the presentations from shortlisted companies, the judges of the ESG Positive Impact Awards (PIA) 2025 reached a consensus on the winners.
Green Growth Asia Foundation executive director Datuk Dr Mahadi Mohamad, who is the chief judge of the small and medium enterprises and mid-tier companies category, was impressed by the quality of submissions.
“SMEs are the backbone of the economy, and you could see the amount of passion and work that they put in,” he said.
Unlike public-listed entities that are required to disclose their sustainability initiatives in annual reports, SMEs are not subject to the same obligations. Despite this, Mahadi observed that some have gone the extra mile and refined their ESG efforts.
He added that by celebrating exemplary ESG initiatives, the ESG PIA organised by Star Media Group Bhd inspires more SMEs to also embark on their own sustainability journey.
First introduced in 2022, the ESG PIA aims to spotlight companies committed to delivering tangible results that positively transform industries and communities.
This year, the awards feature 16 award categories to recognise best practices across the ESG spectrum.
Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) is ESG PIA 2025’s main sponsor, while IJM Rimbayu is the co-sponsor.
TM chief corporate officer Nor Fadhilah Mohd Ali said the true impact of ESG lies in how it improves lives, strengthens communities and supports a more sustainable future.
“For TM, this is guided by our triple bottom line approach of Prosperity, Planet and People – creating economic value through artificial intelligence and innovation, reducing environmental impact through greener operations and uplifting communities through digital inclusion,” she said.
“From green-certified data centres to programmes such as TM Future Skills and Jangkau Digital TM, ESG is embedded in how we invest, operate and serve. When done meaningfully, it builds trust, strengthens resilience, improves business sustainability and turns growth into lasting value for society.”
Offering his perspectives on ESG actions, IJM Land chief operating officer Datuk Chai Kian Soon said impactful initiatives go beyond branding to create measurable, long-term value for communities, businesses and the environment.
“At IJM Rimbayu, projects such as District 28 and ROAM reflect this approach by integrating sustainable planning, connectivity, green spaces and inclusive commercial opportunities into the township ecosystem.
“Rather than short-term sustainability messaging, meaningful ESG efforts are embedded into how developments are designed and operated, and contribute to a resilient, future-ready community,” he added.
Malaysia Investment Development Authority deputy director of green technology division Gogielan Nantha Kumar, who is the chief judge for the large companies category, said good ESG performance must be inclusive and aligned with government policies as well as international standards.
The ESG PIA, he added, provides a platform for companies to showcase their ESG efforts and gain wider recognition.
“Through this effort, more people will come to know of their ESG commitments, such as a healthcare company introducing a corporate social responsibility programme for the underprivileged,” he said.
The winners of ESG PIA 2025 will be unveiled at a gala dinner on July 22, held in conjunction with the Asia ESG Summit.
For details, visit https://staresgawards.com.my/.
