Propelling the ESG agenda across Asia

The Star

13-05-2025

A-EPIC's local initiatives culminate in a regional summit and awards to accelerate sustainability leadership
SINCE its establishment, the Asia ESG Positive Impact Consortium (A-EPIC) has been dedicated to fostering ESG knowledge-sharing, industry collaboration and meaningful engagement across the region.
Over the past year, its consortium members, which consist of media powerhouses—Star Media Group (Malaysia), KG Media (Indonesia) and the Inquirer Group of Companies (Philippines)—have been building a strong foundation by rolling out national-level ESG initiatives tailored to their respective markets.
Each country has seen the introduction of programmes aimed at raising awareness on ESG issues and driving corporate sustainability efforts, further highlighting the influence of media in shaping public discussions on such matters.
Setting the stage
In August 2024, the second edition of the ESG Positive Impact Awards (ESG PIA) honoured Malaysian winners for embedding environmental, social and governance values into their business strategies—demonstrating that profitability and purpose can go hand-in-hand. The increased participation—submissions rose by 38%—reflected growing momentum and a broader shift toward responsible business.
Star Media Group then hosted its inaugural ESG Summit in November, convening industry leaders, investors and regulators to explore real-world solutions and innovation under the theme 'Shaping Asean's Sustainable Future.' From policy to technology, the summit examined how practical tools are being deployed to future-proof organisations across the region.
Chan says hosting A-EPIC's inaugural regional summit and awards marks a milestone for Star Media Group and Asia's ESG movement.
Beyond the main events, targeted platforms such as the ESG PIA Winners' Showcase enabled meaningful dialogue between finalists and ESG leaders, further encouraging knowledge-sharing around regulatory shifts, long-term value creation and implementation challenges.
To further strengthen ESG capabilities, the ESG Reporting & Carbon Management Workshop 2024 delivered hands-on training for businesses navigating reporting standards, emissions tracking and carbon management strategies, equipping participants with the tools to meet rising expectations in a data-driven landscape was held in March last year.
Driving conversations
In Indonesia, KG Media activated its Lestari platform to spearhead national-level conversations on sustainability. In June 2024, the Lestari Forum gathered leaders from government, business, investment, academia and civil society to address urgent environmental and social challenges, while fostering dialogue on corporate responsibility and ESG integration.
This was followed by the Lestari Summit in August, which expanded the conversation under the theme 'Fostering Sustainability Through Inclusivity in Policy & Practices.' The event explored a wide range of critical topics—from empowering local changemakers and unlocking financing for green industries to rethinking how policies shape sustainable outcomes.
The summit culminated in the inaugural Lestari Awards 2024, celebrating companies and public sector institutions demonstrating leadership, innovation and measurable impact in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A-EPIC's strength lies in linking local efforts to amplify impact and drive the regional ESG agenda, says Arbolado.
From ideas to actions
Meanwhile in the Philippines, Inquirer Group of Companies has continued to grow its ESG Edge initiative, using its media platforms to highlight ESG stories, facilitate discussions and spotlight programmes aligned with its readers' values.
Its commitment was formalised in March 2024 through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with 11 cross-sectoral partners from business, education, environment and civil society—establishing a shared pledge to champion best practices, promote corporate accountability and enhance community engagement on ESG matters.
The engagements expanded further in September with the launch of the ESG Edge Connect Network—a quarterly forum series convened to foster collaborative conversations around thematic priorities. Past sessions have addressed key issues such as quality education and gender equality, as well as hybrid energy adoption, which was explored in a session held in November 2024.
Each session offers a platform for stakeholders to explore actionable strategies and co-create solutions for a more resilient and inclusive future.
'Each country brings unique challenges and opportunities in the sustainability landscape, and it is through these localised efforts that the true impact of ESG principles is realised,' said Inquirer Group of Companies president and chief executive officer Rudyard Arbolado.
'In the Philippines, we focus on fostering strong networks that enable collaboration between businesses and local communities. In Indonesia, KG Media's efforts have demonstrated how media can elevate sustainable practices within industries. Meanwhile, Malaysia's initiatives through Star Media Group have underscored the importance of integrating sustainability into national-level dialogues.
'These local engagements serve as building blocks to a stronger regional network, where shared knowledge and collective action drive the sustainability agenda forward. This is where A-EPIC's success lies—by creating a platform that connects local initiatives, amplifies their impact and propels the ESG movement regionally.'
A-EPIC sparks dialogue and action that helps businesses meet regulators while creating lasting value for society and the environment, says Budiman.
An exciting chapter ahead
Building on this momentum, A-EPIC is now entering its next phase of growth.This year, the consortium will scale up its impact by deepening local engagements and expanding its regional footprint.
> Star Media Group: ESG Positive Impact Awards 2024, ESG Positive Impact Awards 2024 Winners Showcase, ESG Positive Impact Awards 2024 Power Breakfast
> KG Media: Lestari Awards 2025, Lestari Summit 2025, Lestari Forums
> Inquirer Group of Companies: The Inquirer ESG Edge Impact Awards 2025, ESG Connect Network: Sustainable Ecosystems, ESG Connect Network: Good Health and Wellbeing, ESG Connect Network: Talent Management and ESG Connect Network: DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion)
KG Media chief executive officer Andy Budiman said, 'A-EPIC's role is to provide a powerful, regional platform that brings together diverse industries to collaborate on the future of sustainability. By offering a comprehensive suite of initiatives—including awards, summits and forums—we enable businesses to connect, share insights and learn from each other's experiences.
'This collaboration is crucial as the challenges we face are complex and interconnected. What A-EPIC delivers is a clear path forward for industries to align their ESG strategies with global goals, while tailoring them to local contexts.
'The value A-EPIC brings is in its ability to facilitate meaningful dialogue and action that will not only help businesses meet regulatory requirements but also create long-term value for society and the environment.'
The local initiatives will culminate in the Asia ESG Positive Impact Summit 2025, scheduled for November. Positioned as a key regional platform, the summit will bring together global and Asian leaders, policymakers, corporate executives, investors and sustainability experts to accelerate the ESG agenda across the region.
More than 400 delegates—including C-suite leaders, industry frontrunners, and ESG specialists—are expected to take part in high-level forums, networking sessions and thematic discussions. With over 40 speakers, the summit aims to deepen regional understanding of ESG imperatives, foster collaboration and drive meaningful action on sustainability challenges.
The summit will be anchored by the inaugural Asia ESG Positive Impact Awards 2025, bringing together the top sustainability leaders from across the region. Winners from the three local award programmes will compete on a regional stage, showcasing exceptional leadership and innovation in driving sustainable practices.
As the first among the consortium members to host the summit, Star Media Group will bring these landmark events to Malaysia—an important step forward in advancing the regional ESG agenda.
Hosting A-EPIC's inaugural regional summit and awards represents a significant moment for both Star Media Group and the broader ESG movement in Asia, said its group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt.
'The Asia ESG Positive Impact Summit and the Awards are key turning points that demonstrate how Malaysia and the region can lead the way in sustainability practices,' he said.
'As the first member of the consortium to host these significant events, we understand the responsibility that comes with it. These events will set the tone for the future, offering a unique opportunity for regional and global leaders to gather, share insights and collaborate on strategies to shape the region's sustainable future.
'It's not just about celebrating success; it's about creating a platform for actionable solutions that will resonate across industries and markets. A-EPIC's efforts will make a real difference, and Star Media Group is proud to be at the forefront of launching this transformative movement,' said Chan.
As A-EPIC expands its regional footprint, its focus remains on fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange and practical action to advance ESG adoption across Asia. The upcoming summit and awards mark a pivotal step in this agenda, positioning the consortium to galvanise businesses, policymakers and sustainability leaders toward meaningful, region-wide progress.
Sime Darby Property Bhd is the Urban Biodiversity Partner for the consortium's initiatives.
For more information, visit the A-EPIC website at https://aepic.asia/