A Descriptive Study on Environmental, Social and Governance Performance in Malaysian Public Listed Companies

Authors

  • Shazida Jan Mohd Khan Economic and Financial Policy Institute, School of Economics, Finance and Banking, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok, Kedah, Malaysia.
  • Nur Hafizah Ismail Corresponding author. School of Economics, Finance and Banking, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok, Kedah, Malaysia.
  • Siti Nurazira Mohd Daud Economic and Financial Policy Institute, School of Economics, Finance and Banking, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok, Kedah, Malaysia.
  • Nur Syazwina Ghazali School of Economics, Finance and Banking, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Sintok, Kedah, Malaysia.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22452/IJIE.vol18no1.4

Keywords:

ESG, Malaysia, Listed companies, Societal well-being, Sustainable business practices

Abstract

Malaysian public listed companies (PLCs) stand out in the ASEAN region
for their commendable performance in environmental, social, and governance (ESG)
factors, as evidenced by prominent ESG indicators. This study evaluates the ESG
performance of 66 Malaysian companies, emphasising ESG assessment, sector-specific
insights, and categorisation. Notably, a substantial number of these companies emerge as
top-tier ESG performers. The findings shed light on the evolving corporate landscape in
Malaysia, showcasing a steady commitment to sustainability aligning with the nation’s
drive for sustainable investment. Governance takes precedence over environmental and
social objectives, revealing a strategic focus among these companies. The ESG strategies
employed demonstrate a high degree of maturity, strategic orientation, and a longterm
perspective, aimed at enhancing corporate competitiveness while contributing
to societal well-being. Despite their impressive ESG standing, this study reveals that
controversies often accompany top-tier performers. The paper provides valuable insights
into the determinants influencing ESG performance within these organisations, offering
pertinent information for policymakers, investors, and stakeholders committed to fostering
sustainable business practices in the Malaysian context.

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Published

2026-01-01

How to Cite

Shazida Jan Mohd Khan, Nur Hafizah Ismail, Siti Nurazira Mohd Daud, & Nur Syazwina Ghazali. (2026). A Descriptive Study on Environmental, Social and Governance Performance in Malaysian Public Listed Companies. Institutions and Economies, 18(1), 85–108. https://doi.org/10.22452/IJIE.vol18no1.4

Issue

Section

Articles