PETALING JAYA, SELANGOR, 20 November 2025 – “Science is not about data and publications; it is about the people, communities, and the environment they depend on. Researchers must be grounded and immerse themselves in strong scientific foundations, while never losing sight of the societal purpose behind their work.”

The above was said by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) academic, Professor Dato' Dr. Aileen Tan Shau Hwai when she was given the ‘Unsung Heroes Recognition’ by the ESG Association of Malaysia (ESGAM) recently at the 3rd ESG Annual Dinner Programme 2025 in Petaling Jaya.

Aileen Tan was the Director of the USM Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies (CEMACS) in Penang. She had been previously awarded the prestigious Anton Bruun Memorial Medal from the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (UNESCO-IOC), one of the most esteemed recognitions in global marine science.

Also present at the programme were the Organising Chairperson and Vice-President of ESGAM, Joyline Chai; and the President of ESGAM, Adjunct Professor Cheah Kok Hoong.

Earlier, Joyline had strongly reminded everyone with a message that sustainability must be demonstrated through action. This could be seen in ESGAM’s credibility and ability to “walk the talk,” and even in every aspect of the dinner, from materials to programme design was intentionally curated to reflect measurable ESG practice and authenticity.

The message was clear: this dinner did not just talk about sustainability; it set a new benchmark for how ESG-focused events should be designed in Malaysia.

Held with the theme “Igniting Action, Amplifying Impact,” the event highlighted how sustainability, creativity, and leadership can be brought together to create an unforgettable and meaningful experience.

The programme was established to shine a light on impactful efforts that align with ESGAM’s mission and values, recognizing that many individuals contribute meaningfully to sustainability and societal betterment without widespread public acclaim.

The recognition specifically aims to celebrate those who have been engaging in sustainability and ESG matters without expecting personal return, embodying a spirit of quiet leadership and integrity-driven action.

The selection process involves independent evaluation by a Judging Committee, scoring nominees based on criteria such as ESG impact, authenticity, humility, and the inspiration and replicability of their contributions.

When it was initiated in 2024, the ESGAM ‘Unsung Heroes Recognition’ programme has the core purpose of acknowledging and honouring individuals and groups who have made significant, often unrecognised, contributions to advancing sustainability, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values.

The ESGAM Unsung Heroes Recognition continues to honour these “quiet but powerful changemakers” in Malaysia, emphasising that true ESG impact often comes from dedicated, purpose-driven actions rather than just compliance or reporting.

Text: Mazlan Hanafi Basharudin/Photos: ESG Association of Malaysia (ESGAM)