Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations have become integral to the corporate philosophy of VERITAS, reflecting the group’s commitment to responsible business practices. These considerations also overlap with VERITAS’ focus on the United Nations’ Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs).

Firstly, VERITAS places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, implementing many initiatives to minimize carbon footprint, optimize resource efficiency and promote eco-friendly practices across its projects and internal operations. It’s carbon-reduction target, embedded within the VERITAS CARE scheme, is to be CO2 neutral by 2040. Also, the customized formulation of the VERITAS GreenCheck self-certification protocol ensures that all buildings designed by VERITAS meet minimum environmental criteria. The formation of VERITAS Environment Sdn. Bhd in 2013 as a specialist sustainability consulting arm is further testament to the group’s commitment to this goal, while the development of the VERITAS Resilientprogram, formulates strategies to tackle design challenges brought about by such future calamities as pandemics, climate change and civil unrest. By aligning its environmental goals with global sustainability standards, VERITAS strives to contribute positively to the communities it serves and the planet at large.

On the social front, VERITAS is dedicated to supporting local communities and social responsibility programs though its well-funded and hyper-active philanthropic arm the VERITAS Fund for Excellence which was formed in 2004. The focus of the VFE is threefold: Education, Design and Environment. Another program, the VERITAS Lecture Series, or VLS, launched in 2007, offers complimentary annual attendance at curated conferences on topics of importance to the local design and property development community. Furthermore, the group actively promotes Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies (DEI) in its workforce, aiming to create an environment where every employee feels valued and has equal opportunities for growth. By investing in these worthy initiatives, VERITAS seeks to make a meaningful and lasting impact on society.

In terms of governance, VERITAS upholds the highest standards of integrity, transparency and accountability. VERITAS joined Transparency International (Malaysia Chapter) as a member in 2010 and complies with all its recommendations. The group’s governance framework and generous remuneration scheme is designed to ensure ethical decision-making and regulatory compliance. VERITAS is committed to maintaining a robust system of checks and balances, with a focus on fair and responsible business conduct. By adhering to strong governance principles, VERITAS aims to build trust among its stakeholders and reinforce its position as a responsible and reliable corporate citizen.

Finally, VERITAS tracks its progress in ESG through its annual ESG Scorecard report, which is managed by its ESG SWAT Team.  As a result of VERITAS focus on ESG, the group has been honored with innumerable accolades and recognitions over the years by such forums as the STAR Outstanding Business Awards (SOBA), the American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM), the ASEAN Business Council (ABC), the Malaysian Green Building Council (MGBC) and many others.