The UN Global Compact held its inaugural 'Forward Faster Now | Asia & Oceania' event in Kuala Lumpur on August 5-6, 2024, bringing together a diverse array of change-makers from across the region. The landmark gathering, orchestrated in partnership with 16 Global Compact Country Networks and Country Offices, served as a catalyst for sustainable business practices in Asia and Oceania.

Sri Lankan corporate leaders, including high-level corporate executives, government officials, and sustainability experts from one of the world's most dynamic regions, united under one roof in a collective mission to chart a course for a more sustainable future.

Day 2 proceedings of 'Forward Faster Now - Asia & Oceania' showcased a range of sustainability initiatives across the region. The agenda featured sessions on SME impact, corporate sustainability journeys, and recognized SDG Pioneers. Organizers also included discussions exploring AI in sustainability, climate action, and ways to accelerate corporate sustainability efforts. The day concluded by highlighting the Forward Faster Initiative, which aims to inspire attendees to advance the 2030 Agenda through concrete actions and collaborative efforts.

Dr. Roshan Rajadurai, Managing Director, Talawakelle Tea Estate PLC participated in the session 'Sustainability Spotlight' - a key highlight of the Forward Faster Now | Asia & Oceania event, focusing on the sustainability journeys of three exemplary companies. Other speakers included: Ms. Anju Jaswal, Executive Officer and Managing Director of Southeast Asia Office, Azbil Corporation and Ms. Jo Yinn Cheng, Vice President, CxG (ESG), Creador

The session provided in-depth case study presentations, showcasing how the companies have navigated their paths toward ambitious sustainability targets, the challenges they encountered, and the strategies they implemented to integrate sustainability into their core business operations.

He presented the company's sustainability journey, highlighting the key initiatives undertaken by the tea industry in Sri Lanka towards economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Dr. Rajadurai also acknowledged the support received from the UN Global Compact network, which has assisted the company in pursuing sustainable and responsible business practices.

"Sustainability is key to the survival and continued prosperity of the tea industry in Sri Lanka and all its associated stakeholders. We feel honoured to present our plantations' sustainability journey and aim to intensify the journey, involve more stakeholders, so that ultimately, all stakeholders and the country connected to this industry will benefit from its progress and success."

Mr. Mevan Peiris, CEO of Hatch: Sri Lanka’s leading Innovation & Entrepreneurship development organisation, participated in the 'High Level Opening Panel - Forward Faster SMEs: Small Businesses, Big Impact' , panelist in the discussion included: Aparna Saxena, CEO, TORAJAMELO and Cheng Yee Chin, Regional Director, DTC. The session explored strategies for enhancing SME sustainability, including green technologies, circular economy principles, and access to finance. Mr. Peiris stated, "The journey towards sustainability should be inclusive - whether it is a large corporate, SME or Startup. We need to go not just forward faster, but also forward faster, further together."

Ms. Leonie Vaas, General Manager – Group Sustainability at Hirdaramani Apparel, shared her inspiring journey in the corporate sustainability space participating in the session 'SDG Pioneers - Inspiring Leadership in Sustainability', along with Gabriel Tan, CEO of Guava.

The session celebrated the remarkable achievements of the UN Global Compact's SDG Pioneers, individuals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership in advancing sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this engaging fireside chat, two sustainability champions who were recognized as UN Global Compact's SDG Pioneers in previous years shared their inspiring journeys in the corporate sustainability space.

She discussed the challenges faced by the industry, such as water usage, chemical management, and carbon emissions, and how these challenges have led to innovation. Ms. Vaas encouraged aspiring sustainability leaders to stay curious, be bold, and always link their work to the bigger picture of the SDGs.

Addressing the gathering she said, "To aspiring sustainability leaders: stay curious, be bold, and always link your work to the bigger picture of the SDGs. Sustainability isn't just compliance; it's about creating value for business, stakeholders, and the planet."

Dr. Stephanie Rahaman, Deputy General Manager of Corporate Communication & Sustainability at Aitken Spence PLC, participated in the UN Global Compact Information Session: Guiding Companies to Move Forward Faster.

This information session aimed to introduce the UN Global Compact initiative to anyone interested in learning more about the initiative, providing a comprehensive overview of its history, principles, and the value it brings to companies. The session included a presentation, a panel discussion with UN Global Compact community representatives, and a Q&A segment.

She noted, "The 'Forward Faster' conference hosted by UN Global Compact has been both insightful and engaging. I believe these important conversations opened up opportunities for greater collaboration and actioning the SDGs. Thank you, UN Global Compact Sri Lanka for inviting me to be a speaker and a participant."

Sri Lankan representatives made significant contributions, sharing their experiences and innovative approaches in various sectors including tea production, apparel manufacturing, and corporate sustainability. Their participation showcased Sri Lanka's commitment to sustainable business practices and fostered valuable cross-regional dialogues and collaborations.