Navigating Corporate Sustainability : Unpacking ESG Disclosure and Rating in Southeast and East Asia

Abstract

Amid a paradigm shift towards ethical and sustainable business practices, this study explores the significance of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) disclosure and rating as an effective tool for communication and assessment. The research reveals the complexity of ESG disclosure and rating in Southeast and East Asian countries, which are characterised by a complex interplay of social, cultural, economic, regulatory and market-dynamics conditions. This study contributes valuable insights into the evolving nature of ESG practices, offering a comprehensive understanding of their complexities and regional dynamics, and also identifying challenges and opportunities. The findings provide policy implications for fostering a culture of corporate responsibility, emphasising the need for nuanced examination, and open avenues for future research, particularly in exploring evolving trends in ESG rating methodologies and in understanding the impact of ESG ratings on market competitiveness.