Taking the 'Lender of the year' award in 2024 is EXIM Bank Malaysia, which impressed judges with its support of key environmentally sustainable projects and initiatives in promoting social responsibility.

The government-owned development finance institution, which supports and empowers Malaysian export businesses committed to sustainability and positive impact, aims to drive economic growth while aligning with global environmental standards.

One of its most recent successes has been the introduction of the Malaysia Global Connect programme in September 2023. The programme focuses on supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through capacity building and advisory services for export and sustainability-related issues.

It also rolled out its EXIM Carbon Calculation Advisory and Support (CCAS) service in September 2024 to help clients measure, manage and reduce carbon footprints, including Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

The bank also launched the EXIM Green Global Initiative in September 2024, committing to mobilise up to RM1.5 billion ($337 million) in sustainable financing by 2027. The initiative will fund impactful green projects in critical sectors such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture to foster environmental stewardship.

EXIM Bank Malaysia has also been involved in several key financing projects, including Uzma Berhad's 50MW large-scale solar project in Kedah, a key component in Malaysia's renewable energy strategy. In addition to this, IGNIS Environment Initiatives Sdn Bhd's waste management project, an environmentally positive initiative and ESG-compliant project, was also solely financed by the bank's financing facility.

"By financing impactful projects, EXIM Bank Malaysia continues to drive meaningful change and global, sustainable growth," said Nurbayu Kasim Chang, EXIM Bank Malaysia's acting president and CEO.

"Beyond financing, through efforts like our Malaysia Global Connect advisory programme and the EXIM Carbon Calculation support, we are also equipping businesses with the tools to thrive in global markets while advancing responsible trade and sustainability."