BIBD Encourages Responsible Business Practices Among SMEs
- Banking, Small Businesses, Sustainability
Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) recently participated in an ESG Awareness Workshop for SMEs, in line with BIBD’s commitment to supporting responsible entrepreneurship under the bank’s Sustainability Framework. The workshop, organised by the Prime Minister’s Office in partnership with BIBD, Total Energies, and the Brunei Economic Development Board and facilitated by the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) aimed to promote sustainable business practices among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Brunei.
Present to officiate the workshop was Pg Khairil Bariah binti Pg Hj Mohd Ali, Acting Director of the Wawasan Brunei Office, Prime Minister’s Office.
Speaking at the event, BIBD’s Head of Corporate Business Development, Hj Shamri bin Hj Mahali, emphasised the Bank’s commitment to promoting sustainable entrepreneurship. “Today’s workshop is a significant step towards building a robust and sustainable business ecosystem. We are inspired by the dedication shown by the SMEs present. Your commitment to sustainability is commendable and essential for long-term success”.
As a staunch advocate for the development of small businesses, BIBD recognises the integral role that SMEs play in building a strong, dynamic, and sustainable economy. The bank actively encourages SMEs to adopt sustainable practices, reflecting the key pillars of its Sustainability Framework.
The workshop included a series of sessions and activities designed to enhance participants’ understanding of sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. Among the topics covered included global and local business risks, sustainability framework megatrends, and the business case for sustainability. Participants also engaged in discussions on MSMEs and sustainability, which included case studies demonstrating successful sustainable practices.
Further sessions provided practical tools and frameworks for SMEs, including the MSME Sustainability Framework and materiality indicator. An ESG maturity assessment activity helped participants gauge their current ESG maturity, while the SME ESG Hub session guided MSMEs on utilising resources for enhanced sustainability practices.
The event also featured the launching of the ESG Start Assessment for Brunei Darussalam, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to advancing sustainability.
