Speaking at the conference, Shahazar Yazid, executive director of UN Global Compact in Malaysia, said: “Without a timeline (for 2030) there is no pressure, and companies and governments can just delay until it is too late.
“Why wait three years? Change the game now. Unless companies step out of their comfort zones there will not be real change in their organisations.”
Yazid urged companies to align themselves with the UN Global Compact Network, an international organisation, with local representatives, which supports and partners with companies working to meet SDGs.
“Many companies have viewed the UN as a regulatory body with rules they are forced to comply with,” he said. “Its Global Compact organisation, however, is more flexible. It offers a policy framework whereby companies can better join in and engage with universally accepted principles.”
Yazid cited several UN Global Compact sustainability success stories in Malaysia, achieved through collaboration with stakeholders in the public and private sectors:
“It has never been easier for those who want to have an impact to do so,” said Yazid. “The SDGs are very attractive goals and the solutions are out there – you’ve just got to look. If we work together, things can be fixed.
“The Global Compact has branches everywhere and I appeal to all of you to, at the very least, look for the local chapter in your area. If you want to be sustainable and don’t know where to start, or want to grow the sustainability of your business, the Global Compact can assist.
“I assure you that with the UN branding for the Global Compact, there is the UN guarantee. If you have a proposal or project that needs their support, we have the reach and ability to open doors because of the UN logo. I can guarantee the Global Compact will do everything it can to make sure your idea becomes a reality.”