From Reporting to Responsibility: An Analysis of Environmental Sustainability Indicators among Malaysian Firms

Abstract

This study investigates environmental sustainability reporting among 214 Malaysian public-listed companies over the period 2018–2022. Focusing on six key environmental indicators (EN1–EN1.5) derived from the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI Standards) and the Bursa Malaysia Sustainability Reporting Framework, the research assesses the extent and progression of environmental disclosure across dimensions such as total environmental reporting, 3R practices, reuse and reduction activities, recycling, eco-friendly product innovation, and waste management systems. Descriptive statistics and trend analysis were used to evaluate reporting patterns over time. The results reveal a consistent upward trend across all indicators, reflecting firms’ growing commitment to environmental responsibility and the institutionalisation of sustainability practices within corporate governance. The findings support institutional theory, suggesting that regulatory pressures, stakeholder expectations, and industry norms have collectively driven greater environmental accountability and standardisation in disclosure practices. Overall, this study contributes longitudinal evidence on corporate environmental reporting in an emerging economy context. It highlights how Malaysian firms are transitioning from compliance-based disclosure to integrated sustainability management, aligning with international reporting standards and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).