Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Three media groups in Southeast Asia–Malaysia’s Star Media Group (SMG), Indonesia’s Media Group of Kompas Gramedia (KG Media), and the Philippines’ Inquirer Group of Companies (IGC)–have joined forces today to launch Asia’s first ESG Positive Impact Consortium (A-EPIC) at Sime Darby Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur.
The launch of A-EPIC marks a watershed moment for the three media partners which are taking on a shared mission to drive influence of ESG principles in facilitating the region’s green economic growth.
This cross-border alliance aims to collectively impact 123 million people across the region. SMG, KG Media and IGC share a solidified partnership with a common goal to expedite the adoption of ESG – Environmental, Social and Governance – in the mainstream media, to ensure public accountability and transparency.
Moreover, as key influencers of the media landscape, the consortium recognises that its responsibility extends beyond news gathering and distribution on nation-building. The consortium aims to achieve this through the delivery of content that informs, inspires, and empowers audiences across the region.
The Consortium launch ceremony was graced by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim. Adding to the prestige of the event were representatives from the Consortium’s esteemed regional media partners. These included Andy Budiman, chief executive officer of KG Media and Rudyard Arbolado, president and chief executive officer of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, who were present to commemorate this historic occasion alongside H.E. Dato’ Indera Hermono, Indonesian ambassador to Malaysia, H.E. Maria Angela Abrera Ponce, Philippines ambassador to Malaysia, as well as ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from across Asia.
Chan Seng Fatt, group chief executive officer at Star Media Group said, “Through the collective power of our reach to over 123 million people, we envision a sustainable Asia where media collaborations promote progressive environmental, socio-economic and governance commitments for future prosperity across the region. We are dedicated to promoting and supporting each member’s ESG initiatives to educate, engage and foster a fraternity of like-minded ESG practitioners to hasten ESG adoption across the region. Together, we will tackle challenges and seize opportunities as we move towards a prosperous, resource-efficient and inclusive Asia.”
Meanwhile, Andy Budiman of KG Media commented, “KG Media proudly announces our partnership with the Asia ESG Positive Impact Consortium, a strategic collaboration that reinforces our belief that a sustainable future is our shared responsibility. This conviction drives our Lestari campaign, aimed at amplifying local sustainability initiatives for greater impact. By joining A-EPIC, we seek to further elevate these efforts and open more collaboration opportunities for greater impact. This alliance with top media powerhouses across Asia, positions us as catalysts for positive socio-economic development, propelling the region towards a sustainable future. Our commitment is resolute: to showcase and amplify impactful local efforts, champion sustainability as the new standard, and empower businesses and communities through bold media strategies.”
Lastly, Philippine Daily Inquirer’s Rudyard Arbolado said, “Today marks a significant milestone for the Inquirer Group of Companies as we proudly announce our partnership with Asia ESG Positive Impact Consortium. This strategic alliance underscores our unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable development and social responsibility, reflecting our core values and commitment to positive change.”
