A total of 75 individuals have completed their training in alternative dispute resolution at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and have received their professional certificates. The training was conducted by the USM-Advance Dispute Resolution Council (ADRC). Out of the 75, 33 individuals from the pioneer group will join the mediation working committee at ADRC after receiving their certificates from Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, who was the guest of honour at the ESG Pioneer Award Ceremony and Graduation Dinner.
During the dinner, Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo mentioned the importance of having locally trained and internationally recognized mediators as a significant step towards realizing the Malaysia Madani vision. The vision, proposed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, aims to create a multicultural society that is inclusive, sustainable, and racially harmonious. By having qualified mediators, the burden on the judiciary system can be reduced, as they can provide an alternative means of resolving disputes in various domains, including societal, governmental, family, and individual. This progress aligns with Malaysia’s commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) set by the United Nations, particularly SDG 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions.
A total of 27 organizations, including Star Media Group (SMG) Bhd, Nanyang Siang Pau Sdn Bhd, Penang branch campus of Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), SMJK Chung Ling, and Penang Island City Council (MBPP), were honored with the ESG Pioneer Award. The award was presented by the alliance of USM, Yayasan Amal TYT Pulau Pinang, Penang Green Council (PGC), and ADRC. The award aims to acknowledge and celebrate organizations that have incorporated ESG principles into their operations and decision-making processes. SMG client brand marketing general manager Simone Liong, Nanyang Siang Pau northern region bureau chief Tan Hu Chuan, and TAR UMT Penang branch campus head Assoc Prof Dr Janice Toh Guat Guan were present to accept the awards.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including ADRC honorary senior advisor Tan Sri Mohd Yussof Latiff, MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Yayasan Amal TYT Pulau Pinang chief executive officer Datuk Seri Rozali Mohamud, Penang Hindu Association (PHA) president P. Murugiah, and dinner organizing chairman Lai Menn Tatt. In his opening speech, Mohd Yusoff, who is also Penang Consultative Goodwill Council chairman, emphasized the importance of the ESG Pioneer Award in recognizing and inspiring corporate leadership in prioritizing sustainability.
Mohd Yusoff highlighted the collaboration between USM and ADRC in organizing the Professional Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution Practice program, which began in March this year. The program aims to equip community members with the skills and integrity to resolve conflicts, contributing to maintaining a peaceful and harmonious society. In addition, the collaboration raised RM100,000 for Yayasan Amal TYT Pulau Pinang, which will be used for charitable endeavors and grants for ESG research. Mohd Yusoff called for all Malaysians to work together towards success and a better world for future generations.
