The JC3’s SME Focus Group (SFG) has launched a new portal, ESG Jumpstart, to help small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) adopt ESG practices.

ESG Jumpstart is a one-stop information portal that provides SMEs with a simple and practical reference guide, as well as suggested actions they can take to build up their basic ESG knowledge and capabilities.

To support SME access to ESG financing, UOB Malaysia will participate in Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia’s RM1 billion portfolio guarantee scheme. This guarantee aims to accelerate industry-led ESG financing initiatives by local financial institutions.

The launch took place during the JC3 Journey to Zero Conference 2023 at Sasana Kijang yesterday where BNM Governor Datuk Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour made several other announcements.

JC3, co-chaired by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Securities Commission Malaysia, is a collaborative platform that aims to build climate resilience within the Malaysian financial sector.

The SME Focus Group (SFG) was set up under the JC3 to overcome the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting ESG practices. It comprises members of the financial industry including banks and insurers.

Ng Wei Wei, Chief Executive Officer, UOB Malaysia said,

“The JC3’s SME Focus Group is proud to jointly launch the ESG Jumpstart portal to empower SMEs to embrace sustainability with Bank Negara Malaysia. By bringing together knowledge and financing, the two key building blocks for a sustainable future, we hope to encourage more SMEs to transition.

 

We encourage SMEs to leverage the portal and kick start this transformative journey of unlocking the opportunities of sustainability soon. The ESG Jumpstart portal marks the beginning of the SME Focus Group’s efforts.”