Singapore, 3 August 2023 – Ten individuals and enterprises were recognised for demonstrating exemplary leadership in sustainability at the inaugural Sustainability Impact Awards, jointly organised by UOB and The Business Times (BT). The awards in the Large Enterprise category were presented by Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, during the awards ceremony held at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore today.
The awards seek to recognise and celebrate the people and businesses that have made a significant positive impact on the environment and societal well-being through their sustainability initiatives.
Singtel was named the Impact Enterprise of the Year under the Large Enterprise category for its outstanding efforts in uplifting the community through digitalisation, innovation, capacity building and philanthropy programmes. The Social Kitchen also clinched the same award under the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) category. It provided tremendous on-ground community support through meal donations, and empowering the underprivileged and marginalised individuals through training and employment opportunities.
Three other large enterprises – CapitaLand Group, City Developments Limited, and ENGIE South East Asia, and three other SMEs – Kaer, MINDSET and Speco – were also presented with the Impact Enterprise Excellence Awards for their various sustainability initiatives.
Under the Individual category, Mr Preston Wong was named the Impact Leader of the Year. As the CEO and co-founder of sustainability tech start-up treatsure, Mr Wong has been advocating the reduction of food waste in Singapore, and raising awareness of food sustainability issues. Another sustainability champion, Mr Clarence Chua, beekeeper and owner of the Sundowner, was also recognised under the Individual Excellence Awards. Mr Chua has been championing the cause of bees in Singapore by hosting educational experiences and rescuing bees.
Ms Chen Huifen, Editor of BT, said, “As sustainability is not a new agenda, BT would like to recognise the various efforts that have had an impact on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) matters. We are seeking companies and individuals that have gone beyond treating ESG as a box-checking exercise. We would like to encourage everyone to continue their good work and positively impact the environment and society.”
Mr Wee Ee Cheong, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, UOB, said, “As a responsible financial steward, UOB is here for the long term, to drive positive actions and impact for communities and economies. While this transition will not be an easy journey for all, we are committed and will continue to catalyse change. We hope these awards will encourage more to step up and drive sustainable development.”
The Centre for Governance and Sustainability at the National University of Singapore Business School is the Knowledge Partner for the Awards.
More information on the Awards can be found at businesstimes.com.sg/events-awards/sustainability-impact-awards.
