KUALA LUMPUR: Hundreds of small businesses are gaining critical exposure to international greenhouse gas reporting standards through the Greenhouse Gases Implementer Programme, launched at SME BizChat 2025—a joint initiative by AFFIN Group and Chemsain to accelerate ESG adoption among Malaysian SMEs.
The programme aims to help SMEs align with the globally recognised Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Corporate Standards, with practical training in ISO 14064-1 and ISO 14064-2.
The training was conducted by Chemsain Sustainability Sdn Bhd in collaboration with global certification body TÜV SÜD.
Participants who completed the programme received internationally accredited credentials, enhancing their compliance capabilities and appeal to ESG-conscious partners and markets.
Held under the theme “ESG for SMEs: A Practical Approach”, SME BizChat 2025 was sponsored by Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad and Generali Life Insurance Malaysia Berhad.
This year’s edition follows the inaugural event in Kuching, where AFFIN and Chemsain first formalised their partnership via a memorandum of understanding.
AFFIN Islamic Bank Berhad chief executive officer Datuk Paduka Syed Mashafuddin Syed Badarudin said the initiative reflects AFFIN’s commitment to supporting SMEs in their low-carbon transition, aligned with its AX28 Plan’s strategic focus on Responsible Banking With Impact.
“Our collaboration with CHEMSAIN and CGC reflects our shared mission to help SMEs adopt ESG principles and build more resilient, sustainable operations,” he said.
The event featured panel discussions on practical ESG strategies and compliance expectations, alongside speaker presentations and live demonstrations to help SMEs translate sustainability into action.
Running alongside the forum was the AFFIN Rakaniaga Bazaar, showcasing local SME products and services.
The bazaar also promoted AFFINMAX, the bank’s secure corporate internet banking platform designed for cashless transactions and financial agility.
To further engage attendees, interactive games powered by AFFIN’s partner RewardinMe created brand touchpoints and opportunities for customer interaction.
AFFIN Group also highlighted several recent ESG milestones. It was upgraded from ‘A’ to ‘AA’ in MSCI’s ESG ratings—recognition of improved governance, board oversight, and transparency—and named Bank of the Year – ESG Champion at the 10th Sustainability and CSR Malaysia Awards 2025.
In 2024, the Group also clinched the Life Below Water and Life On Land Award (Champion) at the ABM 50th Anniversary CSR Excellence Awards, for its ongoing support in maintaining the Klang River through the operation of Interceptor 002.
