First International ESG Forum by UTAR

First International Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Forum 2023

The First International Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Forum 2023, themed ‘Cultivation and Practices towards Sustainability’ was held on 15 June 2023 via Zoom. It was organised by UTAR ESG and SGDs Committee along with the Department of Soft Skill Competency (DSSC) and the Division of Community and International Networking (DCInterNet).

The ESG forum brought together renowned speakers and experts to discuss pressing environmental, social, and governance issues. The forum shed light on the challenges posed by unsustainable practices, the potential opportunities for sustainability, and the pivotal role of universities in shaping societies. It also emphasised the importance of global collaboration, education, and the incorporation of ESG practices in higher education. Furthermore, the forum enabled participants to explore global sustainability trends, policy implications, and successful case studies from industry leaders.

UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Ewe Hong Tat gave a welcome speech at the opening ceremony. “I encourage all participants to actively engage in the forum, share your experiences, and contribute to the collective knowledge. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all our esteemed speakers for their participation and unwavering commitment to the cause of sustainability. I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the organising committee for their dedication and support in making this event possible,” he said and added, “Your presence here today is a testament to your commitment to sustainability, and together, we can create a ripple effect that transcends borders and transforms lives.”

Prof Dato’ Ewe delivering his welcome speech at the opening ceremony

The first keynote speech titled “Current challenges and future sustainability opportunities” was delivered by Global Network “Global Ambassadors of Sustainability” Founder Dr Wesem Al Madhoun. In his speech, he emphasised the importance of tackling unsustainable production and consumption practices promptly. He also highlighted the detrimental effects of environmental degradation on human health and the global economy. Additionally, Dr Wesam explained the potential economic benefits of prioritising environmental health and adopting sustainable practices.

Keynote speaker Dr Wesem sharing his view

Following the keynote speech, Session A commenced, focusing on “University roles and responsibility in environmental, social, and governance (ESG)”. The session featured three speakers, namely Auckland University of Technology International Partnership Manager Dr Ricardo Chacón Mestre, Universitas Multimedia Nusantara Faculty of Engineering & Informatics Dean Dr Eng Niki Prastomo and UTAR Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology Deputy Dean Assoc Prof Ir Ts Dr Leong Kah Hon. Moderating the session was Faculty of Science academic Dr Ong Mei Kying.

The speakers for Session A

Dr Chacon explored the historical development of universities and their impact on economic and social aspects. He presented empirical evidence showcasing the benefits of higher education, including increased tax income, productivity, and improved social cohesion. He also highlighted the role of universities in talent management and their contributions at the national level. His presentation emphasised the need for further research to understand the multifaceted impacts of universities on societies.

Dr Prastomo, on the other hand, explained the pivotal role of universities in fostering social innovation. He outlined five key roles that universities can fulfil to address complex societal challenges effectively. Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of student-centred learning, research, collaboration, entrepreneurship, and knowledge dissemination. These aspects enable higher education institutions to drive positive change in their communities while adapting to evolving student needs and technological advancements.

The last speaker of session A, Dr Leong, discussed the implementation of ESG practices in education and the cultivation of a sustainable future. He highlighted the relevance of ESG frameworks in the education sector and recommended integrating the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into curricula. Dr Leong also shared examples of green initiatives implemented at UTAR, emphasising the importance of transparency and evidence-based reporting to avoid greenwashing in the education sector.

Session A speakers (clockwise, from top left): Dr Niki, Dr Chacon, Dr Ong and Dr Leong

Session B was moderated by UTAR Division of Community and International Networking (DCInterNet) Director Assoc Prof Dr Lai Soon Onn. The keynote speech for Session B was given by ESG Association of Malaysia Honorary Advisor Tan Boon Hien. Titled “Sustainability leadership and ESG”, Tan stressed the urgency of sustainable practices and policies, highlighting rising global temperatures and extreme weather events as key concerns, in his keynote speech. He also discussed the significance of mangrove swamps in carbon retention and the need to adapt to the evolving policy landscape. Furthermore, the keynote underscored the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and global trend awareness in driving sustainability efforts.

Tan sharing his experience with the participants

Following Tan’s keynote speech, Session B themed ‘Industrial transformation through ESG practices’ commenced with a sharing session by two speakers, namely Allied Sustainability and Environmental Consultants Group Limited (AEC) Chairman and Executive Director Grace Kwok and UWC Berhad Deputy Group CEO Dr Martin Ng Chin Liang.

Kwok shared insights on ESG implementation and the latest developments in Hong Kong. She highlighted AEC’s successful integration of sustainability into its business strategy along with the mandatory ESG reporting requirements introduced by the Hong Kong Exchange. Kwok also emphasised the importance of governance, environmental and social issues, and climate-related disclosures in promoting transparency and understanding companies’ ESG performance.

Dr Martin Ng, on the other hand, discussed UWC’s comprehensive approach to ESG practices. According to him, the company focuses on environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and education. Dr Martin Ng then highlighted UWC’s efforts in reducing its environmental footprint, promoting diversity and equality, and investing in education and training. The inclusion of UWC in the FTSE4Good index further demonstrated their commitment to ESG principles and sustainable business practices

The speakers for session B (clockwise, from top left): Dr Lai, Grace Kwok, and Dr Martin Ng

Prof Choong delivered the closing speech. He concluded, “I hope that all participants have benefited and understood the importance of ESG. I would like to take this opportunity to continue encouraging the young people here to actively participate in forums and conferences, so you remain informed and gain the necessary skills to help in any way you can.”

The First International ESG Forum ended with a video presentation and a group photograph.

 

Prof Choong delivering the closing speech

Snapshots of the speakers and participants at the end of the ESG Forum