/ Affin Bank, Sirim collaborate to empower SMEs
Affin Bank, Sirim collaborate to empower SMEs
AFFIN Bank Bhd is empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) towards business resilience and sustainability through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sirim Bhd.
Affin Bank said the collaboration is also in line with their commitment and efforts to foster SME companies towards sustainable growth through simple access to proper resources and value-driven solutions.
Its president and group CEO Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah Wan Ali said the collaboration reaffirms their commitment and support for the government’s agenda to encourage adoption of ESG practises, making sustainability an intrinsic part of long-term business growth.
He also said both parties are dedicated in supporting the SMEs throughout different stages and economic cycles.
He added that the support would be by offering a comprehensive suite of solutions specifically designed to address both financial and non-financial needs of SMEs inclusively and with relevance in an ever-evolving market.
Meanwhile, Sirim president and group CEO Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad said Sirim has the expertise, resources, and influence supporting and guiding the industries especially the SMEs towards sustainable practices and responsible business conduct.
“We can provide technical expertise and research support to help industries integrate the environment, social and governance (ESG) principles into their operations.
“The SMEs may leverage on Sirim multidisciplinary teams of experts in identifying areas for improvement, and implementing sustainable practices such as conducting environmental audits, carbon footprint assessments, and waste management studies to reduce their environmental footprint,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.
Ahmad Sabirin further pointed out their ability to facilitate the development and implementation of ESG standards and certifications in collaboration with industry stakeholders.
He added that Sirim is currently developing its own ESG standard which is expected to be completed by the end of June.
