The ESG Association of Malaysia (ESGAM) has officially launched ESGAMConnect, a pioneering AI-powered ESG platform developed in collaboration with iForte Intelligence Sdn Bhd (iForte). This transformative initiative aims to support businesses especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in accelerating their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) adoption and driving Malaysia’s transition toward a more sustainable and future-ready economy.
Designed as a fully integrated digital ecosystem, ESGAMConnect features a smart AI assistant that guides businesses through the ESG value chain. The platform offers learning modules and talent development, digital gap analysis tools, and a sector-specific marketplace that connects companies with verified ESG consultants, trainers, auditors, and solution providers. It is built to simplify the ESG journey, turning complexity into action, and compliance into a strategic advantage.
ESGAMConnect also supports businesses with ESG reporting readiness, provides referrals to certification and accreditation bodies, and recommends suitable carbon credit platforms and markets. A dedicated funding and grants hub links users to green loan schemes and government assistance, helping to unlock new investments and scale up sustainable operations. With this, ESGAMConnect transforms ESG from a regulatory requirement into a growth driver and innovation catalyst.
The launch ceremony, held at IBM Malaysia Auditorium, was officiated by the Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, and attended by Secretary-General of the Ministry of Digital, YBhg. Tuan Fabian Bigar; ESGAM President and Adjunct Practice Professor, Cheah Kok Hoong; ESGAM Vice-President and ESGAMConnect Project Lead, Eric Chong; and iForte CEO, Ng Chin Keong.
In his keynote address, Minister Gobind emphasized the vital role of technology in ESG transformation. “Digital innovation is central to building a resilient and sustainable Malaysian economy. With ESGAMConnect, we’re witnessing how AI can demystify ESG processes and help businesses especially SMEs embed responsible practices while remaining competitive in a low-carbon world,” he said.
Professor Cheah highlighted that ESGAMConnect is more than just a tool it’s a national ESG ecosystem grounded in intelligence, accessibility, and collaboration. “This is a landmark moment in Malaysia’s ESG evolution. ESGAMConnect gives businesses large or small the infrastructure and resources to lead with purpose and thrive in a future-oriented, inclusive economy,” he explained.
To amplify its impact, ESGAM formalized strategic partnerships at the launch with several key institutions including the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM), the SME Association of Malaysia (SMEAM), and the Malaysian CSO-SDG Alliance (MCSA). These collaborations aim to extend ESGAMConnect’s reach and capacity-building efforts across the country.
Recognizing that sustainability is no longer a choice but a core business driver, ESGAMConnect equips enterprises with the standards, tools, and verified expertise needed to translate environmental responsibility, social impact, and sound governance into measurable business value. ESGAM also invites ESG service providers to showcase their solutions on the platform, helping to grow a localized and credible pool of ESG experts that will strengthen the national sustainability ecosystem.
The platform is now live and open for corporate and service provider registration at https://vep-uat.esgmalaysia.org/.
About the Author
