The ESG Association of Malaysia (ESGAM) today unveiled ESGAMConnect, an AI-powered ESG platform developed in partnership with iForte Intelligence Sdn Bhd (iForte). This transformative platform is designed to support businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in advancing their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) goals and driving Malaysia’s shift toward a sustainable economy.
ESGAMConnect offers an integrated digital ecosystem supported by a virtual AI assistant that guides users through the ESG value chain. The platform includes ESG learning and talent development tools, digital assessments to identify ESG gaps, and a sector-specific marketplace that connects businesses with verified ESG consultants, trainers, auditors, and solution providers. It also facilitates ESG reporting, audit readiness, and referrals to accreditation bodies and relevant carbon markets.
A dedicated financing and grants hub links businesses to government assistance schemes and green financing options, enabling greater access to resources that support sustainable transformation. By simplifying ESG adoption through intelligent digital tools, ESGAMConnect transforms regulatory compliance into a strategic opportunity for data-driven, sustainable business growth.
The launch event was held at the IBM Malaysia Auditorium and officiated by the Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo. The ceremony was also 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 speech, the Minister of Digital emphasized the role of technology in enabling ESG progress. “Digital technologies are central to Malaysia’s goal of building a resilient, sustainable economy,” said YB Gobind. “By harnessing Artificial Intelligence to simplify ESG processes, ESGAMConnect demonstrates how digitalisation can empower businesses to embed responsible practices and remain competitive in a low-carbon future.”
Professor Cheah highlighted the platform’s broader mission and impact. “The launch of ESGAMConnect marks a pivotal milestone in Malaysia’s ESG journey. This platform is not just a digital tool, but a national ecosystem built on intelligence, accessibility and collaboration. It reflects the collective voice of the industry and brings together government, business and civil society to accelerate ESG adoption. Our vision is to empower organisations of all sizes, especially SMEs, to lead with purpose, embrace sustainable practices and thrive in a future-ready, inclusive economy.”
To expand the platform’s reach, ESGAM formalised strategic partnerships through Memoranda of Understanding with 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 impact and support nationwide capacity-building for ESG readiness.
With sustainability performance becoming a key driver of business value, ESGAMConnect equips enterprises with the tools, guidance, and expert networks needed to translate environmental stewardship, social responsibility and sound governance into tangible competitive advantages. ESGAM also welcomes ESG solution providers to participate by showcasing their offerings on the platform, expanding local expertise and strengthening Malaysia’s sustainability ecosystem.
ESGAMConnect is now live for corporate and provider registrations at https://connect.esgmalaysia.org/