The ESG Association of Malaysia (ESGAM), in partnership with Unifi Business and Fortinet Malaysia, hosted a conference to examine how Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices and digital security contribute to the growth and sustainability of Malaysia’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Titled “Unlocking and Securing MSMEs Business Potential”, the half-day event featured 12 industry experts from prominent organisations including Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Affin Bank Berhad, CTOS Data Systems Sdn Bhd (CTOS), Fortinet Malaysia, and Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporated (MBI). Among the key topics covered were the adoption of ESG for MSMEs with a focus on cybersecurity, converged security and networking, next-generation solutions, and building MSMEs for sustainable growth.

ESGAM President, Prof. Cheah Kok Hoong, who had the honour to deliver the opening remark, stressed that ESG has become a crucial factor for business sustainability and success in today’s competitive market, particularly for those aiming to enter the global arena. He said many countries and international markets have stringent regulations regarding ESG practices and that compliance with these regulations is essential for market entry and to avoid legal penalties.

“Given the low percentage of ESG readiness and compliance among MSMEs, the government has introduced various initiatives through multiple agencies to promote and enhance awareness of ESG practices. These include efforts by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), MDEC, and the Securities Commission of Malaysia to raise awareness among MSMEs on ESG practices. Hopefully, together we can move the needle,” added Cheah.

Cybersecurity, a vital element of ESG, particularly within the social and governance frameworks, was a central topic of discussion at the conference. TM’s Chief Information Security Officer, Raja Azrina Raja Othman, a featured speaker at the event, offered her insights on Malaysia's cybersecurity landscape and highlighted cybersecurity measures that MSMEs should practise to safeguard themselves against the rising and increasingly sophisticated threat of cyberattacks, particularly ransomware. She stressed that investing in cybersecurity tools, such as Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), is significantly more cost-effective than paying for ransom, which can exacerbate the rampant cases of ransomware.

Meanwhile, Unifi Business Vice President Mohamad Yusman Ammeran, also a speaker at the event, discussed digital transformation and the next-generation solutions offered by the brand to allow MSMEs to manage their businesses effectively while complying with ESG practices.

Over 100 firms from the medium segment attended the event, which took place on 20 August at Menara Affin. Unifi Business, dedicated to supporting MSME growth through innovative solutions, is actively organising and collaborating with industry leaders and government agencies to host events and programmes designed to empower MSMEs.

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