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Imagine ETS like a special "market" or "pasar" for pollution permits . The main goal is to reduce the bad smoke (greenhouse gases) that factories and companies release , which causes climate change. Emission Trading System : As explained by MIDA How Does It Work? Simple Breakdown: Government Sets the Top Limit of Emission. Government Sets a Limit (The "Cap"): The government decides how much total pollution is allowed for a certain period. This is the maximum limit or "cap". They then create permits (like licences or coupons) equal to this total limit. Each permit allows a company to release a certain amount of pollution (like 1 tonne of CO2). Companies get permits for free or they need to pay for them. Companies Get Permits: Companies that produce pollution (like power plants, factories, airlines) get these permits. Sometimes they get them free , sometimes they have to buy them in an auction. Like market place, it can be traded too. The Trading ("Kau Nak Beli?" or "Jual Beli"): If a company pollutes LESS than their permits allow, they have extra permits . If another company pollutes MORE than their permits allow, they need more permits . The company with extra permits can SELL them to the company that needs more. They trade permits like how people trade things in a market. This creates a price for pollution . Polluting costs money! Why is ETS Good? The Benefits: Saves Money for Companies (Cost-Effective): Companies can choose the cheapest way to reduce pollution. Some might find it cheaper to upgrade their machines, others might find it cheaper to just buy extra permits from a company that upgraded cheaply. Overall, it costs less for everyone to meet the pollution limit than if the government just gave strict orders to every single company. Encourages Green Tech (Innovation): Because pollution now has a price , companies are pushed to find smarter, cleaner ways to run their business to avoid buying expensive permits. This helps develop new green technologies! Can Make Money for Green Projects (Revenue): When the government sells permits in auctions, they get money. This money can be used to fund more environmental projects , like building solar farms or protecting forests. (Like the system in Europe does). Hits the Pollution Target: The government sets the total limit (cap), so they know exactly how much pollution will be reduced overall. Real-World Example: The biggest one is the EU ETS (European Union Emissions Trading System). Worth to know that China uses ETS system, they dont have carbon tax nor carbon credit. It covers power plants, big factories, and airlines flying within Europe. Many other countries (including Malaysia is looking into it) are also setting up or thinking about their own ETS. In short: ETS is a market system to control pollution . The government sets a total pollution limit (cap) and gives out permits . Companies that pollute less can sell their extra permits to companies that pollute more. This puts a price on pollution , making it cheaper overall to reduce emissions and pushing companies to go green! It's like a "pasar" where the thing being traded is the right to pollute, encouraging everyone to pollute less. Malaysia Boleh also use this idea! Malaysia Have a full national ETS ? Malaysia does not yet have a full national ETS (like the EU ETS) in place today , but it is actively developing one and has taken important steps. Here's the current situation in simple terms: No Mandatory National ETS Yet: There isn't a big, nationwide system forcing all big polluters (like power plants or factories) to buy and sell pollution permits right now . Voluntary Carbon Market is Live (Bursa Carbon Exchange - BCX): Malaysia has launched the Bursa Carbon Exchange (BCX) . This is a voluntary market . Companies choose to buy carbon credits (not permits) to offset their emissions, often for ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) reporting or net-zero goals. Important: This is different from a mandatory ETS. BCX deals with carbon credits (often from projects like forests or renewables that remove or avoid emissions). An ETS deals with allowances or permits to emit a certain amount. Government Plans for a Mandatory ETS : The Malaysian government, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), has announced plans to develop a mandatory domestic emissions trading scheme . This is called Phase 4 of the National Carbon Market. Goal: To help Malaysia achieve its target of Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 . Timeline: Development and implementation are expected around 2025 onwards . It will likely start gradually, focusing on specific sectors first. In short: Not yet: Malaysia doesn't have a mandatory ETS forcing companies to trade pollution permits today. But working on it: The government is seriously planning and developing one (Phase 4) to start soon (around 2025+). Voluntary market exists: The Bursa Carbon Exchange (BCX) is already operating for companies that want to buy carbon credits voluntarily. So, while the full system isn't live yet, Malaysia is definitely on the path to implementing its own ETS in the near future as part of its climate change efforts. Keep an eye on announcements from the government (NRES) for updates! Further reading : See it through the lense of China, how ETS helped china in speerheading their ESG initiatives.

Let’s cut through the noise.You ’ve seen the headlines: "Malaysia Commits to Net Zero!" , "ESG is the Future!" , "Sustainable Investments Soar!" But here’s the brutal truth no one wants to say out loud: Most of it is smoke and mirrors. A recent investigation by Changemakr Asia exposed a shocking reality: 12 out of 17 Malaysian ESG reports were flagged for greenwashing. That’s over 70% . We’re not just lagging; we’re leading Southeast Asia in empty promises . This isn’t a minor compliance slip. It ’s a ticking time bomb for your reputation, profitability, and survival. Why Do Companies Choose Greenwashing? (The Siren Song of Shortcuts) Don't get us wrong, when it come to ESG, companies don't wake up planing to deceive. Companies don’t wake up planning to deceive. Greenwashing happens because the perceived easy path is seductive: The "Checkbox Compliance" Trap: Pressure from investors, regulators, or consumers forces quick action. Slapping a green leaf logo on a report feels faster (and cheaper) than overhauling supply chains or operations. Fear of the Complexity Gap: Many leaders genuinely don’t know how to implement real ESG. When faced with complex terms like "double materiality" or "planetary boundaries," vague claims become a shield. Chasing the Bandwagon (Without the Engine): Competitors boast ESG scores. The market rewards "sustainable" brands. The temptation to appear sustainable, rather than be sustainable, becomes overwhelming. The Mirage of Low Cost: Greenwashing seems inexpensive upfront – a clever PR campaign, a glossy report. The real cost, however, is catastrophic (more on that below). How Greenwashing Gets Exposed: You’re Not as Clever as You Think The good old days we only hear of people being caught for tax evasion. Now it is time we hear about how Greenwashing get caught. Think your vague "eco-friendly initiatives" or selective data reporting won’t be caught? Think again. Watchdogs are getting sharper: The "Say-Do" Gap: Promising net-zero by 2050 while increasing fossil fuel investments this year ? Inconsistencies are glaring red flags. Vagueness & Jargon Overload: Claims like "committed to sustainability" or "green products" without specific metrics, timelines, or evidence are meaningless noise. Selective Storytelling: Highlighting one tiny solar panel installation while ignoring massive water pollution from core operations? That’s cherry-picking, not commitment. Lack of Third-Party Scrutiny: Self-declared claims without credible verification (like rigorous audits against recognized standards like GRI or SASB) are instantly suspect. Data Doesn’t Lie (Forever): Sooner or later, real-world impacts (continued pollution, labour disputes, resource depletion) contradict the glossy narrative. The Changemakr Asia study proves it: The market is catching on FAST. Your stakeholders aren’t fools. Greenwashing companies are missing out on that big piece of ESG pie. The Staggering Opportunity Cost of Greenwashing: What You’re Really Losing Greenwashing isn’t just unethical; it’s a devastating strategic blunder . While you’re busy polishing lies, you’re missing the goldmine: Eroded Trust & Reputational Nuclear Winter: Once exposed, trust evaporates. Consumers boycott. Talent flees. Investors ditch you. Rebuilding takes years (if ever). Ask Volkswagen. Missed Innovation & Efficiency Goldmines: Real ESG isn’t a cost centre; it’s an innovation engine. Greenwashing means you ignore systemic changes that cut waste (like circularity), boost efficiency, and open new markets (like regenerative products). That competitor saving RM 500K annually on plastic? They invested in real solutions. Investor Flight & Capital Drought: Savvy investors (controlling trillions ) use sophisticated tools to detect greenwashing. Get flagged, and you lose access to crucial green financing and premium valuations. That RM 2M green investment? It goes to your authentic competitor. Regulatory Reckoning & Legal Peril: Regulators globally (including SC Malaysia) are cracking down hard. Fines, sanctions, and operational restrictions for misleading claims are becoming the norm, not the exception. Wasted Resources: The money spent on spin doctors and glossy reports? That’s capital utterly wasted, diverting funds from actual value-creating ESG transformation. Seriously, it is a path to nowhere. Well ,it is slow motion, so you still have time to fix it. Greenwashing isn't marketing; it's corporate suicide played out in slow motion. Discovered Greenwashing in Your Company? Don't Panic. Do THIS. The jig is up, or you suspect it might be. Hiding won’t work. Here’s your crisis-to-opportunity action plan: Radical Transparency & Acknowledge: Internally, face the music. Commission an independent, external audit to uncover the full extent. Externally, prepare a clear, humble communication plan – before you’re exposed. Root Cause Analysis: Why did it happen? Lack of expertise? Pressure for quick wins? Flawed data systems? Address the source , not just the symptoms. Commit to Authentic Transformation: Ditch the PR playbook. Develop a science-backed, stakeholder-informed ESG strategy focused on material impacts . This is where real leaders emerge. Invest in Deep Expertise: Your team likely lacks the skills to navigate this complexity. Bring in proven experts who understand Malaysian-specific challenges (biodiversity, supply chains, regulations) and global best practices. Rebuild Through Action & Verification: Implement tangible changes. Set ambitious, measurable goals. Get every claim verified by reputable third parties. Let undeniable action rebuild trust. Time to stop that "unnecessary" pawdecure. Stop Polishing the Façade. Build a Genuine ESG Advantage. The era of easy green lies is over. The 70% greenwashing rate in Malaysia is a damning indictment, but also a massive opportunity. The companies that win won’t be the best liars; they’ll be the authentic transformers who turn ESG into: Profit Drivers: Cutting waste, innovating products, attracting green capital. Risk Shields: Anticipating regulations, securing supply chains, building resilience. Talent Magnets: Attracting purpose-driven leaders. Market Leaders: Defining the future, not just reacting to it. We can make it a Legacy. Transform ESG From Liability to Legacy (Before It’s Too Late) You’ve seen the danger. You understand the cost of inaction or deception. The path to authentic , profitable ESG leadership is clear, but it requires deep, practical knowledge tailored to Malaysia’s unique landscape. Don’t become another greenwashing statistic. Become a case study in transformation. Join us at Beyond ESG 2025: Transforming ESG Challenges into Competitive Advantages Now , led by Dr. Catherine Chong , Malaysia’s foremost ESG strategist with 15+ years of real-world experience bridging Europe and local challenges. Dr Catherine's Beyond ESG is outstanding! Here's why. This isn’t another theoretical ESG lecture. This is your battle plan: Unmask Greenwashing Tactics: Learn to spot and eliminate them in your own operations and reports. Master Science-Backed Strategies: Move beyond compliance to leverage System Thinking, Planetary Boundaries, and Double Materiality for real impact. Turn Climate & Biodiversity Risks into Revenue: Discover actionable frameworks for regenerative business models and market opportunities unique to Malaysia. Build Trust Through Authenticity: Implement verifiable, data-driven ESG that withstands scrutiny and attracts investment. Network with Leaders: Connect with C-suite executives, policymakers, and ESG professionals committed to real change. Hear From Those Who Transformed: “Dr. Chong’s Framework helped us Reduce Waste Costs by 30% and attract RM 2M in Green Investor funding.” — CFO, Manufacturing Firm “Within 6 months, we reduced Plastic use by 25% and saved RM500K Annually. Now, ESG isn’t just a Report; it’s part of our P&L.” — COO, Packaging Firm Event Details: Dates: 10 & 11 September 2025 (Wed & Thurs) Venue: Park Hyatt Hotel Merdeka 118, Kuala Lumpur Investment: Early Bird Rates from RM 3,100 (Massive savings for teams!) CPD: 14 Hours | HRDC Claimable Limited to 50 Seats. The 70% trapped in greenwashing won’t act. Will you? 👉 Secure Your Company’s Sustainable Future NOW:Scan the QR Code Below or Visit: www.synergytas.com/BeyondESG WhatsApp : Janet (016 302 6109), Lynette (016 317 7951), Lau (016 328 6312) Stop reporting sustainability. Start living it. Build a legacy that lasts. Register for Beyond ESG 2025 Today!

Quick Summary : Asia’s Parenting Wake-Up Call 5 Lessons from Melaka’s Tragedy → Path to "Happy Parenting" Conventional parenting focus solely on acadamic achievement. Missed out on the Softskill such as resilience, family values and bonding. Asia’s Academic Pressure Crisis "Tiger parenting" fueled the teen’s breakdown. Exam obsession ignores emotional health.→ Happy Parenting Pillar: Balance achievement with emotional safety. Silent Suffering in Hierarchical Families Grief + pressure created a time bomb. Asian households often dismiss "weakness."→ Happy Parenting Pillar: Replace stigma with open dialogue. Missed Red Flags = Systemic Failure Knife in his bag went unseen. Communities must watch collectively.→ Happy Parenting Pillar: Train schools/neighbors in crisis signs. Cultural Shame Around Mental Health "Losing face" prevents help-seeking. Malaysia mirrors Asia’s silence.→ Happy Parenting Pillar: Therapy as strength, not shame. Break Generational Cycles The younger son’s trauma demands action.→ Happy Parenting Solution: HRD Corp-claimable tools for parents/employers. Final Truth : "Asia’s ‘success-or-shame’ parenting model is killing our children. The alternative: A culture where emotional health drives achievement. That’s Happy Parenting."

How fake eco-claims destroyed trust, cost billions, and put execs in jail. The Seductive Lie for Greenwashing Imagine this: Your company wins "Green Car of the Year" awards. Customers proudly buy your "clean diesel" engines. Investors cheer your eco-leadership. Reality? It was all a massive, illegal lie. This is Volkswagen’s "Dieselgate" – the world’s most expensive greenwashing lesson. Volkswagen tumbles from award-winning to resignation of the executive team. Image from The Guardian For Malaysian businesses chasing ESG hype, it’s a terrifying preview of what happens when you fake being green. The Dieselgate Cheat Sheet: What Happened? The Big Claim: Volkswagen heavily marketed diesel cars as "low-emission," "eco-friendly," and compliant with strict environmental laws. The Dirty Secret: They installed "defeat device" software in 11 MILLION cars worldwide. The Trick: This software CHEATED emissions tests. In the Lab: It sensed testing and switched to "clean mode" to pass. On the Road: It switched OFF controls. Cars pumped out toxic fumes (NOx) up to 40 TIMES over the legal limit. The Facade: For years, VW basked in green glory... while polluting massively. What happen to the Execs? Two of the managers received multiyear prison sentences, and two received suspended sentences. Jens Hadler, who oversaw diesel engine development, received the longest prison sentence, at four and a half years. Another ex-manager who worked in engine electronics, Hanno Jelden, received two years and seven months. Volkswagen has already paid out billions in settlements across the world related to dieselgate, but the matter has taken longer in England and Wales because of a different system that does not easily allow for US-style “class actions”, under which lawyers can take action on behalf of a whole group of claimants. The Fallout: When the Green Lie Exploded When the green lid exploded : very expensive price to pay Getting caught wasn't a fine – it was corporate bomb: Financial Nuclear Bomb: Over USD $30 BILLION (Approx. RM 140 BILLION!) in fines, lawsuits, recalls, and buybacks. Stock price HALVED overnight. Billions in shareholder wealth vaporised. Reputational Armageddon: Trust shattered globally. "Green leader" became "global fraudster." Sales plummeted. Brand damage lingers TODAY. Jail Time for Executives: Top managers went to PRISON for fraud. Regulatory Hell: Intense global scrutiny, stricter rules, operational chaos for years. The Eternal Stain: "Dieselgate" is now THE textbook example of greenwashing disaster worldwide. It haunts them daily. Why This SCREAMS at Malaysian Businesses: Volkswagen wasn't some small player. It was an industry giant. If it could collapse under greenwashing, YOUR company is NOT immune. Dieselgate proves: "Fake it 'til you make it" KILLS companies. The cost isn't a slap; it's extinction-level. Regulators WILL Find You: US/EU agencies caught them. SC Malaysia and global watchdogs are getting sharper. Your vague "eco-initiatives" won't fool them forever. Trust is Fragile: Decades of brand building can vanish overnight. Malaysian consumers and partners value trust deeply. Lose it, and recovery is brutal. The "Savings" Myth is Deadly: VW saved R&D money by cheating. The "savings" became RM 140 BILLION in losses. Real ESG investment is cheaper than fraud. Leadership Goes to Jail: This isn't just fines. It's personal liability. Directors and CEOs can be held criminally responsible. Dieselgate's 5 Brutal Lessons for Malaysia: Science Over Spin: Real emissions data > Clever marketing. Base claims on verifiable science, not wishful thinking. Radical Transparency is Your Armour: If your full operations can't withstand scrutiny, you're at risk. Hiding fails. Compliance is the Floor, Not the Ceiling: Meeting minimum standards isn't "green leadership." It's the bare minimum. VW met the test... by cheating. Aim higher. Invest in REAL Solutions, Not PR: Spend on clean tech and ethical supply chains, not glossy reports full of fluff. Culture Matters: Pressure to hit unrealistic targets bred VW's fraud. Foster honesty from top to bottom. Reward real impact, not just good headlines. The Malaysian Choice: Volkswagen's Path... or Yours? Dieselgate shows the endgame of greenwashing: Financial ruin, jail time, and eternal shame. But there's another path: Build Trust through genuine, verified action. Unlock Profit from real efficiency and green innovation (like that Malaysian factory saving RM 500K/year on waste). Attract Investment from savvy funds avoiding greenwashing risks. Become a Respected Leader , not a cautionary tale. Stop Reporting Green. Start Being Green. Don't gamble your company on empty promises. Learn from VW's RM 140 billion mistake. Ready for REAL ESG Leadership? Move beyond compliance. Build authentic, profitable sustainability. 👉 Explore How: [Link to Your ESG Resource/Event/Consultation]