PUTRAJAYA, February 11 – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Rural and Regional Development, YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid bin Hamidi, has launched the ESG Quick Guide for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to streamline the adoption of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. The guide, published by SME Corp. Malaysia, offers simplified steps for MSMEs to grasp ESG concepts, aiming to cultivate sustainability awareness among businesses. YAB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid introduced the Quick Guide after presiding over the meeting of the National Entrepreneur and SME Development Council (NESDC) No. 1 Year 2024 on 5 February 2024 in Putrajaya.
The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development’s (MECD) commitment to nurturing MSMEs’ understanding of sustainability and ESG principles. Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, YB Datuk Ewon Benedick, emphasized the significance of integrating ESG practices into MSMEs’ operations, citing the growing trend among larger corporations and government-linked entities. The Quick Guide, tailored for MSMEs, aims to facilitate their inclusion in supply chains by meeting the ESG requirements set by major firms.
YBrs. Mr. Rizal bin Nainy, Chief Executive Officer of SME Corp. Malaysia, highlighted the guide’s user-friendly approach, offering eight simple steps for businesses to comprehend and implement ESG practices effectively. The guide includes 13 basic indicators essential for MSMEs’ sustainability across various sectors, ensuring inclusivity and practicality in implementation. Available in both Malay and English, the ESG Quick Guide for MSMEs is accessible for free download upon completing the ESG assessment on SME Corp. Malaysia’s website, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting MSMEs in embracing sustainable business practices.
