One for the album: (From left) Thomas, Mohd Khuzzan and TalentCorp vice-president group research, development and policy Mahuran Saro Sariki in a group photo with others the launch ceremony of Life at Work Awards in Kuala Lumpur. — LOW LAY PHON/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The prestigious Life at Work Awards, by TalentCorp Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp), returns for its ninth year recognising exceptional employers who foster ideal work environments.
TalentCorp group chief executive officer Thomas Mathew unveiled the tagline for this year’s award, “Celebrating Excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) for Sustainable Work, Workplace and Workforce”, during the launch ceremony here on Thursday.
He said that it captures the spirit of Malaysia’s advancement in the eighth Sustainable Development Goal: promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.
To meet the demands of today’s rapidly evolving landscape, he announced five new award categories.
“This year, we are going bigger, expanding into 14 categories from eight last year, with 30 awards to be given out.
“This time, we are not just focusing on DEI but also sustainability efforts in view of the growing demands and advancements in our society today,” he said.
The new award categories are Environmental Practices, Green Technology Innovation, Technology for Inclusion, Employee Care and Wellbeing and Corporate Social Responsibility.
TalentCorp’s deputy chairman Mohd Khuzzan Abu Bakar said in the current competitive landscape, a diverse workforce is essential, as individuals from various backgrounds foster creativity and innovation.
“Promoting workforce diversity involves overcoming challenges like limited resources, unconscious bias, and a lack of true inclusion.
“Organisations need a multifaceted strategy focusing on leadership commitment, diverse hiring practices and an inclusive culture,” he said.
He said the awards are in line with Malaysia’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“According to an assessment by the UN Office in Malaysia, we have achieved 64% of the 17 SDG targets on schedule. However, we must accelerate our efforts and exceed our current pace.
“There is room for improvement, including fostering a clear understanding of the SDGs at all workforce levels,” he said.
“We hope the Life at Work Awards will not only promote workplace excellence but also provide valuable insights for the upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan.”
Mohd Khuzzan also urged all employees to participate and demonstrate their commitment to DEI and sustainable practices, as well as collaboratively work towards achieving the SDGs and creating a better future for all.
Submission for the Life At Work Awards 2024 is open until Sept 6 and all employers in Malaysia are welcome to participate.
The judging period will take place in October and the winners will be revealed in November.
Award categories are: Best Organisation, CEO Champion, Chief Human Resources Officers Champion, Promising Young HR, initiatives for Women in the Workforce, initiatives for Diversity Hiring, Young Graduates, Talent Sustainability, Workplace Excellence, along with the five new categories.
For more information and to participate in the awards, visit www.lifeatwork.my.
