Gawai Kaamatan Business Forum highlights ESG practices, AI adoption among SMEs

KUCHING (July 7): The Gawai Kaamatan Business Forum 2024 marked a significant milestone in promoting sustainable and technological advances among business in Sarawak.

Jointly organised by the Sarawak Dayak Graduates Association (SDGA) and Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), the forum themed ‘Fostering Sustainable and Technological Advancement’ took place at the Dayak Chamber, DCCI Tower here recently.

SDGA in a statement today said the event brought together leaders, experts and entrepreneurs from various sectors to discuss and strategise on critical topics on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices and the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) among small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The forum commenced with a session on ESG, highlighting the transformative impact of sustainable practices on both business performance and community wellbeing.

SDGA president Dr Florianna Lendai Michael was the first speaker at the forum, where she spoke on the importance of adopting robust ESG frameworks to navigate the increasingly complex regulatory landscape and meet the rising expectations of stakeholders.

The first session, which was moderated by Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) deputy president Anthony Kioh, provided a comprehensive overview of current ESG regulatory requirements and future trends.

During the session, case studies showcasing successful ESG implementations were presented. The session also addressed common challenges such as the lack of standardised reporting frameworks and the risk of greenwashing.

According to SDGA, the second session focused on accelerating AI adoption among SMEs, emphasising the importance of leveraging available resources and fostering a culture of innovation.

During the second session, key strategies for AI adoption were discussed and highlighted that AI adoption did not necessarily require high capital expenditure, making it accessible for SMEs. It also underscored the transformative potential of AI in driving business growth and innovation.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas graced the forum.

Among those present were DCCI president Dato Allan Keripin Nangkai, advisor to DCCI Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum, KCCI president Datuk Ladislaus Maluda, KCCI vice president Dato Winsel Athos and other dignitaries and business leaders of Sarawak, Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia.