As corporations worldwide work towards Net Zero emissions by 2050, sustainability has become a cornerstone of economic, social, and environmental agendas. Alongside this growing commitment, the challenge of greenwashing—where companies misrepresent their environmental impact—has intensified. Recognising the media’s critical role in advancing credible sustainability narratives, CIMB Group recently launched its first Sustainability Masterclass for Media, supported by the UN Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei (UNGCMYB) and Monash University Malaysia.
This knowledge-sharing platform aims to equip journalists with the tools and insights to report responsibly on sustainability, hold organisations accountable, and foster impactful conversations within the public sphere.
Insights from Industry Thought Leaders
The Masterclass featured distinguished speakers who emphasised the need for robust sustainability practices, transparent communication, and leadership’s transformative potential.
Dr. Avvari V. Mohan, Professor of Innovation & Strategy at Monash University Malaysia, underscored the importance of distinguishing between sustainable development as a broader concept and its application within corporate goals. “Sustainability requires systems thinking,” he stated. “Organisations often prioritise ‘reporting for disclosure’ over substantive changes in practices. Effective solutions demand leadership and a clear vision to address today’s challenges.”
Faroze Nadar, Executive Director of UNGCMYB, highlighted the pivotal role of storytelling in shaping perceptions and driving action. “The media plays a crucial role in bringing sustainability narratives to life,” Faroze explained. “UNGCMYB is committed to partnering with corporations like CIMB to impart knowledge and support the media, who serve as mouthpieces to amplify these messages.”
Tania Davina Yoganathan, Head of Sustainability Malaysia at CIMB Group, shared the Group’s progress and commitment to advancing the sustainability agenda. “This Masterclass is designed to deepen the media’s understanding of sustainability communications in a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous world,” she said. “We are honoured to collaborate with thought leaders from UNGCMYB and Monash University to deliver expert insights and real-world scenarios.”
CIMB’s Sustainability Achievements
CIMB’s dedication to sustainability is reflected in its significant milestones. Guided by its Green, Social, Sustainable Impact Products and Services (GSSIPS) framework, the Group has mobilised over RM105.8 billion in sustainable finance, surpassing its RM100 billion target ahead of schedule.
As a champion of financial inclusion and economic empowerment, CIMB has disbursed RM23 billion in loans to micro and small businesses and RM27 billion to the lower-income Group in Malaysia over the past five years.
Driving Impactful Conversations
Through this Masterclass, CIMB underscores its commitment to fostering a sustainable future and ensuring transparency in sustainability communications. By working alongside journalists, the Group seeks to drive meaningful change across industries and communities in the ASEAN region.
“While sustainability gains importance among corporations, the conversation must continue. The CIMB Sustainability Masterclass for Media is a significant step forward in ensuring these conversations are informed, impactful, and resonate with worldwide audiences.” Faroze Nadar
