THE Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Positive Impact Awards (PIA) return this year with a sharpened mission.
The theme, “Celebrating ESG in action: From vision to value”, reflects the Awards’ focus on companies that are not only making commitments but also delivering results that reshape industries and communities, from reducing carbon footprints to strengthening governance and uplifting lives.
Now in its fourth edition, the ESG PIA has become a hallmark of excellence. Endorsed by the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry and the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry – and independently audited by EY Malaysia – the Awards further affirm that purpose and profitability can go hand in hand.
Chan says that businesses are no longer measured solely by profits, but by purpose, progress and impact.
“Across Malaysia, a new definition of success is emerging. Businesses are no longer measured solely by profits, but by purpose, progress and impact,” said Star Media Group (SMG) chief executive officer (CEO) Chan Seng Fatt.
“Some are pioneering smarter ways to conserve resources and protect our planet. Others are investing meaningfully in people and communities, creating opportunities that uplift lives.
“Every action, whether small or transformative, moves us closer to a future where sustainability is not an aspiration but a way of life.
“The ESG Positive Impact Awards were founded to honour this spirit of progress.
“They remind us that success can no longer be measured by profits alone, but also by the values we uphold, the choices we make and the impact we leave behind,” he added.
A journey of engagement
In the lead-up to the Awards Night, a curated series of high-level engagements will bring together the nation’s most forward-thinking leaders.
The programme begins on Nov 18 with an invitation-only Power Breakfast in Petaling Jaya – a dialogue among business leaders, regulators and sustainability experts.
Featuring ESG ByteTalks and a panel discussion, the session will explore how sustainability strategies can drive profitability, reputation and access to new opportunities through low-carbon practices.
Recognising the northern region’s growing base of sustainability champions, SMG will also host a second Power Breakfast in Penang, extending these conversations to the region’s dynamic network of manufacturers, exporters and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Another highlight, the ESG Winners Showcase, will feature past recipients sharing case studies that demonstrate how ESG has accelerated both their transformation and competitiveness.
These sessions will be complemented by focused virtual clinics, guiding companies on how to craft submission forms that will effectively highlight their ESG impact.
Amar says technology must serve a greater purpose – to connect people, bridge divides and unlock opportunities.
Partnership with purpose
Making its debut as the Awards’ main sponsor, Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) underscored the role of technology in powering Malaysia’s digital future.
Its group CEO Amar Huzaimi Md Deris said: “As we work towards becoming a Digital Powerhouse by 2030, we’re building a digital ecosystem that not only drives business growth and innovation but also uplifts lives and communities across the nation.
“Our support for the ESG Positive Impact Awards reflects our belief that technology must serve a greater purpose – to connect people, bridge divides and unlock opportunities so everyone can thrive in the digital economy.
“And we’re already turning this belief into action. From AI-ready, energy-efficient green data centre, to next-gen solutions like smart cities, sovereign cloud services and GPU-as-a-Service, we’re showing that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand.
“Through Jangkau Digital TM, we’re driving digital inclusivity by bringing reliable connectivity and much-needed technologies to remote communities, while TM Future Skills equips Malaysian youth with the knowledge and tools to become the next generation of digital leaders.
“This partnership with The Star is about inspiring organisations of all sizes, from large corporations to SMEs, to embed sustainability deeply into their purpose and practices.
Chai mentions that by recognising and celebrating best practices, the Awards highlight how ESG values can drive meaningful change.
“Together, we can create lasting impact for people, planet and prosperity, ensuring no one is left behind as Malaysia moves forward into its digital future,” explained Amar.
Co-sponsor IJM Rimbayu echoed this vision, highlighting how ESG values are shaping township development and future-ready communities.
IJM Land chief operating officer Datuk Chai Kian Soon pointed out that sustainability is not a destination, but a continuous journey that creates far-reaching impact for the future.
“At IJM Land, true success goes beyond business returns; it is equally defined by the positive influence we bring to our customers, partners and communities.
“Our support for the ESG Positive Impact Awards reflects this conviction. By recognising and celebrating best practices, the Awards highlight how ESG values can drive meaningful change and inspire collective progress towards a greener, more sustainable future.
“This philosophy continues to shape how we plan and build. IJM Rimbayu is a clear example – transforming barren land into a thriving 1,879-acre (760.41ha) sustainable township that is now home to more than 20,000 residents.
“With projects such as ROAM, a next-generation commercial hub, and District 28, a premium business centre, we are embedding ESG principles into every stage of development.
“Through this sponsorship, we aim to drive innovation and accelerate the industry’s transition towards a low-carbon, climate-resilient future, advancing responsible progress in line with our R2O (Reduce to Net-Zero, Resilience in a Net-Zero World) strategy.”
This collective push is further strengthened by institutional partners such as the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) and the Jeffrey Sachs Centre for Sustainable Development, alongside local organisations including the Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption Centre of Excellence, Business Council for Sustainable Development Malaysia and Climate Governance Malaysia.
Recognising impact
The culmination of the programme is the Awards Night – an evening that honours leaders across 16 categories, from biodiversity conservation and water management to governance, innovation and sectoral excellence.
Designed to recognise organisations of every size, the Awards spotlight those setting new standards for sustainability in Malaysia and the region.
“Together with our partners in government, industry and the business community, we are nurturing a movement that inspires collaboration, drives innovation and empowers bold action,” said Chan.
“I warmly invite you to be part of this journey. Share your story. Inspire your peers. Lead with vision and humility. The time to act is now – and together, we can create a living legacy of impact and stewardship that future generations will look back on with pride and gratitude.”
For more details about the awards submission, visit https://staresgawards.com.my/
