KUALA LUMPUR: Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was conferred the Sustainability Visionary Award during the UN Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei (UNGCMYB) Members Celebration Night 2026 at the InterContinental Hotel here on Thursday (Jan 29) evening.
Abang Johari is the inaugural recipient of the award, a prestigious recognition established to honour exceptional leadership and innovation in advancing sustainable development.
The Sustainability Visionary Award recognises individuals who demonstrate inspirational leadership in promoting sustainability practices and solutions, while driving transformative and long-term development impact.
The award honours visionary sustainability change-makers whose leadership contributes to meaningful progress in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
By spotlighting forward-thinking pioneers, the award highlights a broader commitment to long-term sustainability and transformative governance.
Abang Johari’s recognition reflects his visionary approach in steering Sarawak’s development agenda, particularly in championing sustainable initiatives that prioritise inclusive growth, environmental protection and economic resilience.
His leadership has been widely associated with positioning Sarawak as a forward-looking state in areas such as renewable energy, green economy development and sustainable resource management.
The significance of the award lies in its acknowledgment of leadership at the highest level as a key driver of meaningful and lasting change.
The recognition affirms that Abang Johari’s policies and initiatives have not only benefited Sarawak and its people, but have also set an example for sustainable governance beyond the state.
In recognising Abang Johari, the organisers said the award also serves to encourage forward-looking leadership and inspire others to place sustainability at the core of development planning, for the benefit of both present and future generations.
During the event, Abang Johari also delivered a special keynote address, sharing insights on leadership, sustainability and the importance of long-term vision in navigating global development challenges.
The UNGCMYB Members Celebration Night is an annual leadership gathering that recognises enterprises and individuals driving credible, impact-driven sustainability initiatives in Malaysia.
