As we step into 2024, let’s explore the evolving world of investing, where the buzz around ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles is gaining momentum. Malaysia is at the forefront, setting ambitious goals for carbon neutrality by 2050. Join us on a journey to discover practical tips for everyday investors to align their portfolios with responsible spending.
MALAYSIA’S ESG PROGRESS
Malaysia’s commitment to ESG is evident through its ambitious plans. The nation’s focus on renewable energy, sustainable cities, and a green economy showcases dedication to environmental stewardship. Keep a keen eye on these trends as they can significantly influence your portfolio’s performance.
GREEN ENERGY AND SUSTAINABLE CITIES
Major companies in Malaysia are actively adopting green energy, with local giants opting for electricity from renewable sources. Initiatives like the Green Electricity Tariff and the Net Energy Metering Nova program demonstrate a robust commitment to sustainable practices. To support these efforts, Malaysia incentivizes electric vehicles, targets 31% renewable energy in its capacity mix by 2025, and aims for carbon neutrality by 2050. Investors should consider the potential growth of companies aligning with these green initiatives.
SUSTAINABLE FINANCING
Malaysia stands out globally in sustainable financing, issuing the world’s first sovereign US-denominated sustainability sukuk. With a focus on eligible social and environmentally friendly projects, the government plans to issue up to RM10 billion of sustainable sukuk in Budget 2022. This move creates unique investment opportunities for those looking to support socially responsible projects. The PwC report on “ESG Deals Creation and Impact Investing in Malaysia” emphasizes how companies listed in FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia (F4GBM) Index, demonstrating strong ESG business practices, have been able to deliver higher valuation multiples and investment returns.
CORPORATE ESG PERFORMANCE
Public-listed companies in Malaysia are outperforming in ESG metrics compared to their ASEAN counterparts. Ranking second on the MSCI All Country Index ESG Leaders Index, Malaysia’s companies demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices. The FTSE4Good Bursa Index and the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Shariah Index provide valuable insights into companies leading in ESG and Shariah-compliant solutions. Investors can leverage these indices to make informed decisions aligned with their values.
SECURITIES COMMISSION INITIATIVES
The Securities Commission (SC) Malaysia is taking significant steps to foster sustainable practices. The introduction of the Leading for Impact Programme and the Principles-Based SRI Taxonomy public consultation paper in 2021 are clear indications of Malaysia’s commitment to advancing ESG principles. The SC’s focus on sustainability risk management, disclosures, and the development of the sustainability index showcases Malaysia’s advanced stage in policy and regulatory actions related to ESG.
BUDGET 2024: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF ESG
Budget 2024 is a game-changer for the ESG space in Malaysia. Sustainability is now integrated into economic policies, reflecting the government’s commitment to making Malaysia an investment destination while achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The budget allocates RM2 billion for the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and a RM200 million startup fund for the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, reinforcing Malaysia’s dedication to a low-carbon economy. A RM900 million loan fund for SMEs to enhance business productivity through automation and digitalization demonstrates a focus on long-term sustainability through resource optimization and waste reduction. Guarantee funds of up to RM20 billion for SME entrepreneurs, especially in the green economy, technology, and halal fields, further boost investor confidence. Putrajaya’s transformation into Malaysia’s low-carbon city, utilizing solar panels and electric vehicles, sets a benchmark for sustainability, influencing ESG from an investment category to a mainstream strategy.
EXPERT INSIGHTS ON BUDGET 2024
Experts highlight Budget 2024’s emphasis on promoting domestic direct investments and attracting venture capital for high-innovation start-ups and green growth. The allocation of funds towards Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Facility (NETF) and encouraging financial institutions to provide up to RM200 billion in financing fosters a favourable environment for foreign climate investors. The focus on green investments is expected to stimulate both local and foreign investments in the renewable energy sector, propelling Malaysia towards a low[1]carbon economy. This aligns with global trends where investments in low-carbon energy technology reached a record level of USD1.1 trillion in 2022.
ENSURING LONG-TERM SUSTAINABILITY
Budget 2024 takes mid-term steps to encourage sustainable economic instruments through tax exemptions and deductions up to 2027. This includes tax deductions for companies participating in the voluntary carbon market and increased funding for Ecological Fiscal Transfer for Biodiversity Conservation (EPT). The emphasis on impact investing, supported by tax exemptions for social enterprises, aligns with Malaysia’s goal of becoming a prominent regional SRI hub. These measures aim to drive long-term ESG programs and initiatives.
BALANCING IMMEDIATE NEEDS AND FUTURE SUSTAINABILITY
While Budget 2024 focuses on promoting investments into conservation and the transition to a low-carbon economy, there are concerns about capacity enhancement needs and legal infrastructural gaps. Awareness needs to be raised among SMEs about the importance of sound ESG management. The budget lays the groundwork for economic instruments to facilitate Malaysia’s transition towards a low-carbon economy, but there is room for a broader focus on ESG factors to ensure long-term success.
BLOOMBERG FIRESIDE CHAT – MALAYSIA’S ESG ACCELERATION
In a recent Bloomberg fireside chat, Muhamad Umar Swift, Bursa Malaysia’s CEO, discussed how COVID-19 has spurred ESG adoption in Asia. Umar shared insights into Malaysia’s sustainability journey, highlighting Bursa Malaysia’s ESG initiation in 2010 with a vision to be ASEAN’s leading sustainable marketplace. ESG evolution in ASEAN focuses on education and Bursa Malaysia’s role in setting ESG transparency standards. Attracting global assets is a priority, aligning with local sustainability mandates and exploring avenues for sustainable investment. Regulatory influences, inspired by the E.U.’s Taxonomy, play a crucial role in attracting capital. Looking forward, public awareness is key to fostering a positive cycle. Bursa Malaysia actively encourages sustainable investment, aspiring to embed ESG values into the broader culture and society.
GLOBAL COMPARISON
Compared to ESG-focused budgets in neighbouring countries, Malaysia’s Budget 2024 takes commendable steps. However, lessons from Australia and Singapore highlight the importance of waste management, community education programs, and industry regulation for cohesive ESG practices.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR EVERYDAY INVESTORS
Now, let’s translate these developments into practical tips for everyday investors: 1. Diversify with ESG Funds: Consider allocating a portion of your portfolio to ESG-focused funds. These funds invest in companies meeting high ESG standards. 2. Stay Informed: Regularly check ESG ratings of companies in your portfolio. Websites like FTSE Russell ESG ratings can be valuable resources for this information. 3. Explore Sustainable Sukuk: Keep an eye on opportunities in sustainable sukuk. These investments not only provide financial returns but also contribute to socially and environmentally responsible projects. 4. Engage in Sustainable Initiatives: Support companies actively involved in green initiatives. As consumers, your choices can influence corporate behaviour. 5. Long-Term Vision: Remember, ESG investing is a journey, not a destination. Companies embracing sustainable practices today may offer long-term value.
LOOKING AHEAD
As Malaysia advances in its ESG journey, there are exciting prospects for responsible investors. The upcoming trends in energy transition, food security, circular economy, and mobility transformation offer avenues for sustainable investments. Keep an eye on these developments to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of responsible investing. In conclusion, ESG is not just a financial trend; it’s a collective effort to create a better future. As you navigate the world of investments, consider the impact your choices can have on the environment, society, and corporate governance. Together, let’s shape a future where responsible spending is not just a choice but a way of life. Happy investing!
(Sources: Bloomberg, The Star, PwC)
This story is a contribution from Sajesh Kumar Paramasivam – Senior Partner at TorchBearer Consulting, a wealth management company that specializes in family wealth building through expert guidance.
