Bcorpsea

Jun 2026 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 01:03:45 +0000

Editor's Note

This month’s edition captures an exciting moment for the B Corp movement. Across the stories, we find businesses making bold decisions, from expanding into new markets and investing in future-ready infrastructure to adopting more rigorous standards and unlocking new opportunities through purpose-driven leadership. It’s encouraging to see impact increasingly recognized not just as a measure of responsibility, but as a driver of resilience, growth, and long-term value.

We’d also like to congratulate the first global companies to achieve B Corp Certification under B Lab’s new standards, setting an inspiring benchmark for businesses around the world.

To everyone who joined us at the B Corp Asia Summit 2026, thank you. It was a pleasure to connect with familiar faces, welcome new ones, and share conversations that challenged ideas, sparked collaborations, and strengthened our global community. The energy and generosity of everyone reminded us that the B Corp movement is shaped as much by the people behind it as the businesses themselves.

We hope to see you again soon as we continue building a more inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy together.

B Market Builder Southeast Asia Team

News from ASEAN

Welcome to the B Corp Community

Meet our newly certified B Corps. These companies showcase the diversity of purpose-driven businesses, from advancing circular resource recovery and green investment to reimagining education for future generations.

Bridge Fields Resources Sdn Bhd is advancing circular economy solutions through sustainable resource management and material recovery.
PT Investasi Hijau Selaras is driving impactful green financing and sustainable development projects, making sure that investment always goes hand-in-hand with planetary health.
Newlife Education Sdn Bhd (Ideas International) is equipping the next generation of global leaders and citizens through innovative, globally focused education.

What DCI Indonesia Reveals About Long-Term Value

Indonesia’s accelerating digital economy is driving unprecedented demand for resilient infrastructure, and DCI Indonesia is positioning itself at the center of that shift. With strong revenue growth, sustained profitability, and expanding services, DCI has emerged as one of the strongest candidates for The Best Investortrust Companies 2026 award, an annual appreciation event organized by Investortrust to recognize top-performing listed companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX). The company’s latest performance underscores how strategic investment in digital infrastructure can strengthen long-term competitiveness while earning investor confidence.

Winning the Sale is Only the Beginning

Hosted by ZigZag Global, ReturnsFest 2026 brought together retail leaders to explore the trends reshaping post-purchase experiences. Attendees got an exclusive preview of forthcoming research examining how delivery, refunds, and returns are influencing consumer trust and why these often-overlooked touchpoints are becoming a powerful source of competitive advantage.

EXO Travel Joins JTB Group to Scale Sustainable Growth

EXO Travel enters a new phase of growth in joining the JTB Group, one of the world’s largest travel and tourism organizations. While retaining its leadership and partner-first approach, the move is strategic, combining EXO’s regional expertise with JTB’s global network, opening new opportunities to invest in people, sustainability, and long-term growth across Asia and beyond.

In The Network

HSBC UK Offers B Corp SMEs Discounted Fees for Sustainable Financing

HSBC UK is offering qualifying SMEs verified B Corps by B Lab UK discounted fees on lending and trade finance products, with facilities available from £300K, for a wide range of corporate uses through its Business Impact Initiative. The Bank’s sustainability financing marks a practical shift in how responsible business is rewarded in recognizing that B Corp certification is not only a measure of impact but is a commitment to long-term business strength.

B Lab’s Latest Knowledge Base Updates

B Lab has expanded its Knowledge Base with a new series of training videos designed for L–XXL multi-site companies. Covering evidence requirements, common nonconformities, and practical certification examples across key impact areas, the resources offer actionable guidance to help businesses navigate the certification process with greater clarity and confidence.

The B Corp Movement’s 20 Years of Trial and Triumph

What does it take to build a global movement without claiming to have all the answers? In the first edition of the B Lab newsletter Forces for Good, B Lab co-founder Bart Houlahan and Chief Standards Officer Clay Brown reflect on two decades of shaping the B Corp movement, exploring how humility, continuous feedback, and community input have guided the evolution of its standards from the very beginning.

The Real-World Impact of B Corps: Insights from B Lab

As the B Corp movement continues to expand, what does its collective impact look like in practice? B Lab’s Insights Series brings together global research on climate action, job quality, financial resilience, and more – offering a data-driven look at how B Corps are creating measurable change across businesses, communities, and the planet.

Powering The Next Generation of B Corps

Congratulations to the first cohort of global businesses certified under B Lab’s new global standards. This landmark cohort represents companies of all sizes and sectors, proving that ambitious, independently verified standards can be met while advancing meaningful impact. Their achievement sets the tone for the next generation of B Corps around the world.

Enharmonic Encounters First to be Recertified Under V2

Enharmonic Encounters has become one of the first companies in the U.S. to successfully recertify under B Lab Standards V2. As a B Corp that guides other businesses through the certification process, its early achievement sets an example that the transition to more rigorous standards is both achievable and worthwhile.

Putting Purpose into Public Procurement

Public procurement has the potential to reward businesses that deliver measurable social and environmental value, but inconsistent sustainability criteria often stand in the way. B Lab’s latest report examines the EU and how stronger recognition of credible, third-party verified standards could create a fairer, more competitive procurement system that better recognizes purpose-driven businesses across Europe.

Rethinking Business as a Force for Good

The B Corp Asia Summit 2026 brought together business leaders, investors, and sustainability experts from across Asia to explore how purpose-driven businesses are translating sustainability into measurable business value. Through thought-provoking keynotes, panel discussions, and real-world case studies, the Summit examined the evolving B Corp Standards, the role of the B Impact Assessment as a management tool, the growing importance of impact-focused finance, and practical strategies for embedding purpose into everyday business operations. Together, the conversations reinforced a powerful message: businesses that integrate purpose, strong governance, and continuous improvement into their core strategy are better positioned to build resilience, foster innovation, and create long-term value for both stakeholders and shareholders.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org.

The post Jun 2026 Edition appeared first on Bcorpsea.

May 2026 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:34:21 +0000

Editor's Note

This month’s stories share a clear direction: business is increasingly being shaped by intention, not just output. Across regions and industries, there is a steady shift toward clearer communication, stronger accountability, and more grounded ways of working. Companies are focused, whether they are building teams, designing experiences, or talking about impact, when they prioritize substance over noise for actions that match values.

The highlight of May 2026 is B Lab Global’s 20th anniversary. What began with three friends testing whether business could serve people and the planet has grown into a global ecosystem of more than 10,000 certified companies across 100 countries, with over a million people carrying a B. Watch the video that B Lab has released to see how far the movement has come, and where it’s headed next.

Looking ahead, we’re especially excited for the B Corp Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur this June and the chance to connect with many of you in person.

The B Market Builder community is always here, supporting, sharing, and growing alongside you.

B Market Builder Southeast Asia Team

News from ASEAN

Growing the B Corp Community in Southeast Asia

We are excited to welcome three purpose-led businesses to our community.

5 ELK helps businesses build high-performing teams through ethical offshore staffing and operational support from the Philippines.
Above Creative Events (M) Sdn. Bhd. is an award-winning events agency that creates standout corporate experiences across physical, virtual, and hybrid formats.
Booth, previously certified under B Lab Singapore, provides responsible remote staffing solutions that help businesses grow while staying aligned with their values.

Before ESG, There Was Relationship

Sukkha Cita’s Earth Day message revisits Pertiwi, the Javanese understanding of earth as a living mother rather than an environmental cause. It honors women across generations who carried that relationship instinctively, from elders like Ibu Kasmini, who spent decades reading the land, to Dr. Sylvia Earle, still exploring the ocean at 90. The message we all need to remember is that a connection to the earth already exists in people. It only asks to be remembered.

What a People-First Q1 Looks Like

PALO IT’s Q1 recap highlights a culture built around people first, not process. Across APAC, Europe, and the Americas, the first quarter brought AI lunch-and-learns, sustainability workshops, and informal team gatherings that reinforced shared values across time zones.

What Does Organic Farming Achieve? English Tea Shop Explores

English Tea Shop highlights its organic farming mission, centered on soil health and long-term sustainability. In partnership with CGIAR and rA (responsAbility), the company is studying soil organic carbon across Sri Lankan farms to better measure impact. The initiative spans multiple regions and farmer groups, aiming to strengthen ecosystems, livelihoods, and climate resilience through a deeper scientific understanding of regenerative agriculture.

KMC Sportsfest Strengthens Bonds Beyond Work

KMC Sportsfest 2026 brought colleagues together for a day of friendly competition, team spirit, and celebration at Kerry Sports Manila. From exhibition games and team parades to the crowd-favorite Muse Competition, the event highlighted the connections that extend beyond the workplace. The event reflected KMC’s commitment to building community, strengthening relationships, and making work and life better.

EXO Moves from the Shoreline to the Rich Heritage of Phuket

EXO Travel highlights a different side of Phuket, shifting attention from beaches to the island’s cultural and historical depth. The feature explores Sino-Portuguese architecture, Chinese shrines, Buddhist sites, and local village traditions in southern Thailand. Read on to discover experiences that connect travelers more closely with the island’s heritage and everyday life.

In The Network

Between Greenwashing and Greenhushing, Finding Your Voice

Charlotte Levitt, B Lab’s Global Marketing & Communications Director, reflects on the launch of the Greenshouting Guide, a framework to help brands communicate their sustainability work with clarity and honesty. By challenging how sustainability communication is handled inside organizations, the framework pushes teams to speak more precisely about progress, gaps, and responsibility rather than defaulting to caution or overstatement.

20 Years of Business as a Force for Good

The B Corp movement marks 20 years since its founding, reflecting on a shared effort to redefine the role of business in society. What began in 2006 with three founders and 81 certified companies has grown into a global community of more than 10,000 B Corps across 100+ countries. This milestone captures a journey shaped by the people building it, from early pioneers to today’s global network still pushing the system forward.

A Reflection of Collective Change

B Lab Nordics celebrates two decades of the B Corp movement through a 2026 Special-Edition Impact Report shaped by voices across its global community. The report features an interactive timeline of key milestones, reflections on progress, and perspectives on the movement’s next chapter, highlighting contributions from leaders and partners who continue to shape its evolution.

Happening This Month

The Countdown to the B Corp Asia Summit 2026 Begins

The B Corp Asia Summit 2026 is almost here. Happening on 22–23 June in Kuala Lumpur, the summit will bring together Asia’s purpose-led businesses and spotlight how business as a force for good drives real impact across the region. Attendees can extend the experience with optional site visits on 24–25 June for deeper, on-the-ground learning.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org.

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Apr 2026 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:28:30 +0000

Editor's Note

Welcome to the April edition of our newsletter.

This month, one theme ran through everything we curated: the gap between sustainability commitments and real-world action, and what it takes to actually close it.

Being a B Corp means not waiting for perfect conditions, and this month’s curation made that clearer than ever. Farms restored, factories reimagined, and boardrooms pushed harder. The work is ongoing, and it’s picking up pace.

That same energy runs through the conversations happening at the global level, too. B Lab is evolving, the standards are strengthening, and the case for purpose-led business has never been more grounded in evidence.

As B Market Builder, we are genuinely excited to see so many of you taking that next step, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome the community together at the B Corp Asia Summit 2026 in Kuala Lumpur this June. It’s going to be a powerful two days, and we can’t wait to meet everyone.

As always, we’re here – rooting for your journey, every step of the way.

B Market Builder SEA Team

News from ASEAN

The ASEAN B Corp Community Just Got Three Strong Additions

We are excited to welcome three newly certified B Corps to the community, reflecting the B Corp movement’s growing momentum across the ASEAN region. 5 ELK a people-first approach to talent and offshore solutions; Above Creative connects creativity with purpose-driven event design; and ZigZag Global is pushing e-commerce returns toward a more circular future.

Opella’s Narita Plant Slashes Emissions by 80%

Opella Healthcare recently opened the doors of its Narita facility in Japan to brand ambassadors and the public to experience how their innovation and high standards are woven into every step of their manufacturing and quality control processes for Over-The-Counter (OTC) medication. The site produces 40 million boxes and 2.2 billion tablets annually, serving 95% of the Japanese market. Driven by a full switch to renewable energy and an electrified heating system, the facility has achieved an 80% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 CO₂ emissions compared to 2019.

A Living Lab for Regenerative Coconut Farming

Harmless Harvest has opened a Demo Farm in Thailand, transforming the land that just 18 months ago was marked by declining trees, low yields, and heavy pest pressure into a thriving cultivation using regenerative practices. The farm also serves as a living learning center where coconut farmers across Thailand can take home the regenerative methods and apply them in their homeland to build an industry with a net positive impact on both climate and community.

dMRV Driving Low-Carbon City Solutions

PALO IT Thailand, a B Corp-certified global technology consultancy, hosted a knowledge-sharing event on 8 April 2026, bringing together voices from AltoTech Global, CarbonFlow, and sustainability experts to explore how digital Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (dMRV) can drive the development of low-carbon cities. The session transformed sustainability commitments into practical, measurable frameworks, reflecting PALO IT’s broader mission of using technology to drive responsible business impact.

In The Network

New Global Board to Steer B Lab’s Next Chapter

After almost 20 years of the B Corp impact, B Lab is moving to the next chapter with a new global board, marking a significant step in the organization’s evolution toward a more unified international structure. The new Chair, Francine Lemos, former Executive Director of Sistema B Brasil, and the eight-member board bring together B Corp advocates with diverse backgrounds spanning law, policy, entrepreneurship, and systems change from across five continents. The new board will steer B Lab’s next chapter of global impact.

10,000 B Corps Prove Profit Meets Purpose

Back in 2012, B Lab co-founder Bart Houlahan told CNN Money what most of the business world wasn’t ready to hear: profit and purpose don’t have to compete. His vision was a certification that evaluated the whole company, not just a product or practice, making it easier for consumers and investors to identify and back businesses doing genuine good. Over a decade later, 10,000+ B Corps across 104 countries are the proof.

ChangeNOW 2026 Reveals The Real Reason Sustainability Gets Stuck

At ChangeNOW 2026, B Lab’s Clay Brown, Longchamp’s Adrien Cassegrain, and Kite Insights’ Sophie Lomba examined why sustainability strategies stall inside organizations. The answer lies in the absence of clear mandates, decision-making frameworks, and employee agency that breaks the chain. Longchamp’s B Corp journey offered a concrete example of how certification can anchor purpose across an entire organization, while the panel pointed to role-specific KPIs, leadership transparency, and room to experiment as the levers that make commitment stick.

Silence Is the New Greenwashing

B Lab and Creatives for Climate have launched the Greenshouting Guide, a free resource addressing “greenhushing” — the growing corporate habit of going silent on sustainability to avoid scrutiny. Backed by data from Edelman and Harvard Business Review, and case studies from 15+ companies, the guide offers a three-step framework to help brands communicate real environmental progress with transparency and confidence.

No Planet B for Business

B Lab marks Earth Day with a pointed reminder: environmental accountability isn’t a corporate value add-on; it’s the price of doing business on a finite planet. Standards, certifications, and impact measurement only mean something if the planet can sustain them. And B Corps are the businesses this planet and its inhabitants can actually count on.

Why Companies Shouldn’t Stay Silent on Climate

The Greenshouting Guide, developed by B Lab, Creatives for Climate, and Nice and Serious, earned a feature in Fast Company this Earth Month. In her piece, Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet, argues that transparency, not silence, is what separates credible brands in 2026. Companies willing to speak honestly about their sustainability work are the ones building trust and standing out in the market.

Coming Up in May

Make ESG Your Business Advantage With PINTAR & Fuller Impact

B Corps PINTAR and Fuller Impact are joining forces in Jakarta this May for a two-day hands-on workshop designed to help decision-makers turn ESG from a concept into a concrete business strategy. Built for those ready to move beyond the buzzwords, the event on 19-20 May promises practical frameworks and implementable strategies, not just another panel discussion. Stay tuned for more details.

Coming Up in June

Asia’s Purpose-Led Businesses Converge in Kuala Lumpur This June

Business as a Force for Good is Good for Business.

Join us at the B Corp Asia Summit 2026 on 22–23 June in Kuala Lumpur for two days of insight, connection, and action. Engage with purpose-led businesses across Asia and extend your experience with optional site visits on 24–25 June to see impact in action.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org.

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Mar 2026 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:27:58 +0000

Editor's Note

March is always a special month for the B Corp community, and this year’s B Corp Month was vibrant, filled with honest conversations, meaningful gatherings, and businesses quietly doing the work that matters.

This edition reflects that energy. From certifications earned through years of consistent practice to leaders asking hard questions about how business can do better by people and planet, the thread running through this issue is simple: good business is built on intention, not circumstance. As the region’s B Corp community grows and the global standards rise, it is encouraging to see so many organizations not just keeping up but setting the pace.

Looking ahead, we at the B Market Builder SEA are excited to welcome everyone to the B Corp Asia Summit in Kuala Lumpur this June, a gathering that will be as energizing as this month has been.

As always, we are here to support you every step of the way.

B Market Builder SEA Team

News from ASEAN

The Region’s B Corp Community Expands New B Corps Advancing Impact in Southeast Asia

Congratulations to sustainable architectural materials manufacturer, Loqa, and Indonesian apparel production hub, Hollit International, on achieving their B Corp certification, an important milestone that reflects their commitment to using business as a force for good. We are also pleased to welcome English Tea Shop, certified since 2022 under B Lab UK, and now successfully recertified under B Market Builder Southeast Asia. This transition reflects their continued dedication to upholding high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability within the Southeast Asian ecosystem.

Small Businesses Big ESG Intentions

Lifestyle FMCG brand Signature Market joined two fellow Malaysian SME leaders on Astro Awani Niaga’s SME ESG Challenge segment to discuss how smaller businesses are putting sustainability into practice. Signature Market’s Compliance Manager, Amelia Tan, gave a walk-through of the company’s holistic ESG approach, spanning responsible sourcing, employee welfare, community engagement, and environmental accountability, demonstrating that, regardless of industry, SMEs have the power to lead change.

In The Network

B Corps Power Performance at Winter Olympics

B Corps made a mark at the Winter Olympics. Protective outerwear brand 66°North sponsored Iceland’s national team, Burton Snowboards was all over the slopes, and Save The Duck outfitted the US figure skating team. Sustainable business and world-class performance, it turns out, are not mutually exclusive.

Longchamp’s 78 Years of Craft, Now Certified

French luxury house Longchamp has earned B Corp Certification, adding formal accountability to a philosophy it has practiced for 78 years, crafting products meant to last, be repaired, and be passed down. For Longchamp, certification isn’t a pivot; it’s a structure that reinforces what responsible craftsmanship already looks like in practice.

Why Patagonia is Betting on Food, Not Just Jackets

In a new episode of Journey to Regeneration, Patagonia Provisions general manager Paul Lightfoot breaks down how brands can actively shift agriculture from extractive to regenerative through purchasing power, strict sourcing standards, and a willingness to prioritize mission over market share. Hosted by Professor Christopher Marquis, one of the most respected academics in sustainability and an upcoming speaker at the B Corp Asia Summit 2026, the conversation covers everything from perennial grains to fair labor as non-negotiables in true regenerative practice.

What’s New in B Lab’s Redesigned Knowledge Hub

B Lab has relaunched its Knowledge Hub, making it easier for companies to find resources relevant to their stage and goals.

What’s new?

A clean, refreshed look aligned with B Impact branding
A narrative, persona-based structure to guide you more intuitively through content
A streamlined FAQ section with expandable questions, organized by topic
30 new articles to support you in navigating the V2 Standards and our updated assurance model

Watch this video to see what’s new with the Knowledge Hub.

Explore a few highlights:

ASEAN Celebrating B Corp Month

Across ASEAN, B Corps marked the B Corp Month in their own distinct ways, with each reflecting their commitment to people, planet, and doing business as a force for good. Here is a glimpse of how the community showed up this March.

B Corp Month during Ramadan called for something meaningful, so B Market Builder SEA brought the community together for a special Iftar gathering, welcoming around 60 participants from certified B Corps, aspiring B Corps, academicians, and media. The session included an introduction to B Corp Month, training on the new B Lab Standards, and a casual meet and greet, creating a space for connection, learning, and shared purpose.

The event was warmly received by participants, with many expressing interest in having more regular meetups in the future. Following this, B Market Builder SEA will be hosting another offline meetup on 24 April 2026, in collaboration with Prasetiya Mulya Executive Learning Institute.

If your organization is interested in participating or hosting future sessions, please reach out to the B Market Builder SEA team.

In the spirit of B Corp Month, Emapta‘s Executive Director and ESG Lead Inge Zwick took on a question businesses still wrestle with: whether outsourcing can truly be ethical. In the B Better Podcast by Grow Good, she gave a breakdown of what responsible outsourcing actually looks like: fair wages, full benefits, real career pathways, and workplaces that treat global talent as an asset.

For B Corp Month, Yever reflected on two decades of the B Corp movement and what the road ahead demands. With tightening certification standards, the firm is doubling down on measurable action: eliminating single-use plastics across its offices, funding the Pwint Thit Sa corporate disclosure assessment in Myanmar, and running The Lab, a pro-bono consulting initiative helping small Myanmar businesses grow.

This B Corp Month, Infinit-O puts employee well-being front and center, not as a perk, but as an operational commitment. Through Infinit-Care, the company brings medical access, preventive care, and ongoing wellness support directly to its people, ensuring their teams stay healthy and supported at every stage.

Coming Up in April

The HIRARC Framework Your Safety Team Needs

Fuller Academy is hosting a one-day workshop on 28 April 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club to provide professionals with a complete, practical HIRARC framework they can implement immediately. Led by Dr. Dzulqarnain Abu Bakar, the session covers hazard identification, risk assessment, control measures, and workplace safety culture.

EXO Travel at the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference

Exo Travel’s Chief Purpose Officer, Alexandra Michat, will be speaking at the Global Sustainable Tourism Conference in Phuket from 21 to 24 April 2026. The four-day gathering brings global tourism leaders together to work through practical solutions for a more responsible industry.

Coming Up in June

Join Southeast Asia’s Leading B Corp Summit

The B Corp Asia Summit will bring together business leaders, impact investors, and sustainability practitioners across two days of sessions at Royale Chulan, Kuala Lumpur, on 22-23 June, followed by site visits on 24-25 June. Organizations committed to staying ahead on sustainability, investor expectations, and consumer trust are encouraged to secure their place.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org.

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Feb 2026 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 06:32:41 +0000

Editor's Note

Welcome to the February edition of our newsletter.

As we move deeper into 2026 planning, a consistent theme is becoming clear: the B Corp movement is maturing. With this growth comes higher expectations, rigorous standards, and a stronger demand for real-world, verifiable impact.

Across regions and sectors, purpose-driven businesses are moving beyond intent to execution. The strength of this movement continues to come from collective action, shared learning, open dialogue, and collaboration across borders. New tools, evolving standards, and global recognition are reshaping how we lead, govern, and deliver impact as stewards of this work.

This B Corp Month, we celebrate the shared achievement of thousands of B Corps worldwide. It is a moment to pause, acknowledge the progress, and recommit through stronger team engagement, capability-building, and strengthening local networks.

Looking ahead, we are excited to host the B Corp Asia Summit on 22–23 June in Kuala Lumpur, where purpose-driven leaders across the region will explore the future of businesses and the role we play in shaping it.

As we move forward in 2026, the B Market Builder SEA team remains committed to supporting the movement in the work we do today and the work still ahead.

Updates from B Lab

New B Corp Standards – Next Steps to Stay Ahead

On 29 January 2026, B Lab hosted a global webinar that introduced the new B Corp certification process and outlined what has changed, what remains, and what companies must do under the updated V2.1 standards. The new standards raise expectations on performance, require independent third-party verification, and strengthen how impact claims are assessed and communicated.

Explore the resources and key steps that will help you get ready for the new process.

News from ASEAN

Cognitive Diversity Is the Next Big Shift

At the Davos Neurodiversity Summit 2026, leaders and youth advocates shifted the conversation from awareness to execution. Max Simpson, CEO of Step, joined the panel that championed neurodivergent youth as co-designers in shaping solutions. The discussion challenged performative inclusion and highlighted the need for real accessibility, shared power, and sustained commitment that strengthen organizations, advance rights, and future-proof economies.

Meet the Newest Forces for Good

We’re thrilled to welcome Un-Available and Alchemy Bali Group to the B Corp community!

Founded in 2004 and based in Vietnam, Un-Available is a garment manufacturer serving global fashion and streetwear brands, with sustainability and workforce well-being embedded at the core of its mission.

Alchemy Bali Group, a Bali-based pioneer in plant-based cuisine and mindful living, champions sustainable, regenerative practices through nourishing food, yoga, and holistic wellness experiences. Together, they strengthen our global movement for businesses that create positive outcomes for people and the planet.

Investing in Rainforest Value That Regenerates

Forestwise, a sustainable cosmetic and food ingredients company, has received support from the SPVO Responsible Business Programme through the Netherlands Enterprise Agency. This funding strengthens the company’s commitment to combatting deforestation through deeper collaboration with local communities in the creation of rainforest value products – harvested in the wild with respect for nature. The focus is on long-term environmental stewardship and creating meaningful social and economic impact in the regions where Forestwise operates.

Global Recognition for a Circular Climate Leader

Two years, two continents, and one shared vision. Gree Energy has proven that scalable, value-driven solutions can create real-world climate impact. From winning the 2024 Dubai International Best Practices Award to becoming a 2026 Zayed Sustainability Prize Climate Action finalist in Abu Dhabi, this B Corp demonstrates how circular economy models generate measurable environmental, social, and economic value worldwide.

SukkhaCitta’s Angkasa Collection Reaches Global Icon Status

Dr. Sylvia Earle, legendary American marine biologist and ocean advocate, graces this month’s Tatler Asia cover wearing SukkhaCitta’s Angkasa Collection. The sustainable, handcrafted line honors extraordinary women and celebrates planetary stewardship. At 90, Earle continues to explore the oceans, champion environmental protection, and prove that one committed voice can help shape a better future.

ERALDA’s Expansion Encompasses Supply Chain Management

David Forsgate, CRO of ERALDA Indonesia, joined Cascale’s Source of Good podcast to share the company’s journey as a B Corp Certified sourcing partner. He shared ERALDA’s expansion from Hong Kong across Asia, and highlighted the importance of building transparent, responsible brand-manufacturer partnerships. The conversation reinforced the role of ethical business practices in shaping a more accountable and resilient supply chain across the region.

In The Network

Formula E Drives Sports Into the B Corp Era

Formula E is now the world’s first B Corp Certified sport, cementing a decade of leadership in using racing as a platform for social, environmental, and business impact. The series demonstrates that sport can combine driving high performance with measurable progress by setting strong standards for events, community programs, worker wellbeing, and full transparency and accountability.

B Corp Movement is the Cornerstone of the Climate Crisis

B Lab’s latest Force For Good newsletter explores the growing strength of the B Corp movement and its ability to drive meaningful change. It highlights the power of narrative, collective action, and community engagement, showing how a movement can influence behaviors, shift culture, and reshape the systems that drive our economies.

Why Materiality Is Now Central to B Corp Certification

As 2026 sustainability planning gets underway, B Corp organizations face a critical shift. The updated standards introduce mandatory materiality assessments for large companies, also affecting medium-sized ones. Beyond compliance, materiality now helps companies focus on the issues that matter most, align actions with real-world impact, and make clearer, more credible decisions.

B Corps Evolve for a New Era

Twenty years into its evolution, the B Corp movement is now at an important global turning point. With over 10,000 certified companies, the community continues to balance accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement while adapting its governance and standards through active listening and lived experience. Today, leadership in the movement is no longer a position, but participative, relying on collaboration to sustain trust in a time of growing expectations and scrutiny.

Sistema B Launches Free B Corp Courses

Sistema B, the organization leading the Global B Movement in Latin America, has launched a free digital platform that offers official courses on B Corp Certification and triple impact standards. This initiative supports companies, professionals, and consultants to build the knowledge and skills needed to meet the updated requirements set by B Lab.

Your Roadmap to a Seamless B Corp Audit

Reaching the B Corp audit stage is a significant milestone in the certification process. Success depends on preparing internal teams, organizing thorough documentation, understanding the audit plan, and managing timelines with intention. When approached strategically, the audit becomes a valuable learning opportunity that strengthens operations and supports continuous improvement across the business.

B Corp Month is Here!

B Corp Month is an opportunity for companies to actively participate in and celebrate the movement. With the B Corp Month toolkit, companies can engage in meaningful ways through employee training, B Hive activation, new standards workshops, and community gatherings – both online and offline.

For collaboration ideas or support, the BMB SEA team is ready to assist.

Coming Up in June

Meet our Growing Community at the B Corp Asia Summit

We are excited to welcome B Corps and business leaders to the B Corp Asia Summit this June in Kuala Lumpur. The event offers a chance to connect with how purpose-driven models generate measurable returns, navigate evolving ESG regulations, and engage impact investors. Off-site visits to Malaysia and Indonesia are available for those looking to deepen their learning.

Seats are limited, so register today to secure your spot.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org.

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Jan 2026 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 08:09:17 +0000

Editor's Note

As we enter 2026, we see a clear trend that purpose-driven businesses are shifting from aspiration to an operational reality. This month’s stories highlight the trend where businesses across ASEAN are moving beyond surface-level sustainability to embed impact directly into governance structures, financial decisions, and core operations.

Danone’s health initiatives have already reached more than 210,000 children, and Steps’ digitally inclusive training is showing remarkable results, with 100% skill improvement among neurodivergent learners. These outcomes reflect a growing truth that stakeholder-focused business models are delivering real value. Meanwhile, ASEAN’s regulatory frameworks and the region’s adoption of rigorous standards like B Corp V2.0 are helping position Southeast Asia as a global leader in responsible business.

We’re excited to bring this community together at the B Corp Asia Summit this June in Kuala Lumpur, an avenue to connect with purpose-driven businesses shaping our region’s future.

As we look ahead to 2026, the B Market Builder SEA team remains committed to supporting this transformative movement every step of the way.

News from ASEAN

Meet Our New ASEAN B Corps

We’re thrilled to welcome Moreloop of Thailand and OXO Group Indonesia to the B Corp community! Moreloop brings circular fashion to life by turning surplus textiles into valuable resources, while OXO Living is redefining luxury property in Bali with eco-conscious design, wellness, and community-centered experiences. Together, they strengthen our global movement for business that works for people and the planet.

Force for Good in Action – Lessons From Global B Corp Danone

Danone’s global B Corp certification, which includes its operations in Southeast Asia, marks a significant milestone in its long-term commitment to purpose-driven growth. Health, sustainability, and social impact are fully integrated into its core business strategy and demonstrated through initiatives that address iron deficiency in over 210,000 children, promote recyclable packaging, and strengthen employee wellbeing across the organization.

EXO Travel Verified for Global Sustainability Excellence

EXO Travel has earned GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certification across all its destinations. This accomplishment reinforces the company’s commitment to delivering responsible tourism that meets the highest international standards by integrating sustainability into every aspect of its operations, from planning and supplier selection to on-the-ground experiences.

ASEAN Leads Sustainable Development with USD 242M in FDI

Southeast Asia is becoming a leading force in the global ESG landscape for the convergence of regulation, sustainable investment, and impact standards. With frameworks like the ASEAN Taxonomy and growing adoption of B Corp Standards V2.0, the region is aligning economic growth with environmental, social, and governance priorities. This progress is not only attracting sustainable investment, but it is also strengthening business resilience and positioning companies to meet global sustainability expectations while driving meaningful impact across the region.

How to Start a Purpose-Driven Business – Nazava Filter’s Blueprint

On the She-Co. Podcast, Lieselotte Heederik, founder of Nazava Water Filters, shared how to turn a tangible problem into a purpose-driven solution that is now a financially sustainable business. By tackling an urgent problem and designing a customer-focused solution, Nazava was able to scale impact through strategic partnerships. Lieselotte delivered a rare masterclass on turning social purpose into lasting, measurable success.

Neurodivergent Learners Achieve 100% Success in Digital Literacy Pilot

Steps’ Digital Literacy Program, designed for neurodivergent learners and supported by 3M, proved how accessible digital training can deliver measurable impact. With 100 percent of trainees showing improvement in digital and technical skills, the accredited pilot demonstrated how inclusive design, structured learning, and practical application build confidence and equip learners with career-ready digital skills.

In The Network

2027 B Corp Handbook Seeks Global Success Stories

The upcoming third edition of The B Corp Handbook, scheduled for release in mid-2027, is now open for submissions from Certified B Corps worldwide. Seeking a mix of well-known companies and high-impact emerging organizations, the book will feature case studies and insights shaping the movement’s next chapter. Submissions are open until February 15, 2026.

Purpose-Driven Business Outperforms Profit-Only Models

Purpose beats profit-only models. In a recent Reuters piece, B Lab UK’s CEO, Chris Turner, emphasized that B Corps prove how prioritizing people, planet, and governance drives stronger growth and greater public trust. With 63% of consumers using certifications to guide their purchasing decisions, Turner argues that UK policymakers need to modernize corporate governance laws, so stakeholder-focused business becomes the norm.

The True Meaning of B Corp Beyond Green Product Badges

B Corp certification signals that a company embeds social and environmental responsibility into its governance and decision-making, not just its products. While adoption continues to grow in FMCG and operationally driven sectors, other industries face contraction and scrutiny, showing that B Corps’ value lies in consistent governance and accountability, not in symbolic badges.

The Global B Corp Brand Book Is Here

B Lab has launched the Global Brand Book to help Certified B Corps communicate their certification clearly and confidently. The guide offers a unified communication strategy that supports consistent messaging across the community and helps advance the collective vision of transforming economic systems for the better.

How Can We Put Our Money to Work for the Climate?

In the season finale of the Forces for Good podcast, climate finance takes center stage as one of the most powerful yet often overlooked solutions for a sustainable future. B Lab’s Kylie Nealis and Seventh Generation’s Kate Ogden explain how everyday financial choices, including investments, insurance, and banking, can advance sustainability. Their conversation shows that redirecting capital may be one of the simplest and highest-impact climate actions companies can take.

Coming Up in March

Everything You Need to Power B Corp Month 2026

The global B Corp community is buzzing with anticipation as B Corp Month approaches this March! More than a celebration, it’s a moment to spotlight purpose, impact, and the stories that drive change around the world. To help companies take part, B Lab Global has released the 2026 Campaign Toolkit, which includes themes, visuals, and customizable assets that make it easy for companies to join and amplify the movement.

Coming This Summer

B Corp Asia Summit 2026 – Where Purpose Meets Profit

Join more than 400 Asia-Pacific B Corps and business leaders at the B Corp Asia Summit this June in Kuala Lumpur. Explore how purpose-driven models deliver measurable financial returns, navigate rapidly evolving ESG regulations, and connect with impact investors prioritizing long-term resilience.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org.

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December 2025 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 03:15:26 +0000

Editor's Note

As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect on a year shaped by progress, shared purpose, and the strength of our community. This year was defined by dedication, collaboration, and our core belief that business can be a force for good.

B Lab raised the bar for social, environmental, and governance performance with the introduction of its new Standards, guiding businesses toward measurable impact. While we bid farewell to Andrew Kassoy, his mission and vision continue to anchor the movement and remind us why this work matters. We remain focused on the power of purpose, the value of collective action, and the real change we can create when we work together.

As we move toward 2026, we carry this momentum with optimism. We are excited for the B Corp Asia Summit 2026, where purpose-driven businesses will gather in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 22–23 June 2026 to learn, connect, and accelerate positive impact.

All of us at B Market Builder SEA wish you a joyful holiday season and a bright, hopeful, and impactful year ahead.

Let’s keep growing together in 2026.

Recertified and Certified B Corps in 2025

Nine new companies across ASEAN were certified as B Corps in 2025, reflecting continued regional momentum and a stronger shift toward responsible and purpose-driven business standards.

Eight ASEAN-based B Corps successfully completed their recertification in 2025, demonstrating sustained commitment to impact, transparency, accountability, and long-term improvement.

The latest number of our growing movement

2025 ASEAN B Corp Milestones and Global Highlights

New B Corp Legal Requirement in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the new B Corp Legal Requirements were introduced, providing model clauses that help companies embed stakeholder governance into their constitutional documents and strengthen accountability.

Explore on B Lab’s New Standards

B Lab launched its updated standards, providing clearer and more consistent guidelines to help companies create meaningful, sustainable impact while supporting the global transition toward an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.

Launch of Common Good

The launch of Common Good, a global film series produced with BBC StoryWorks, spotlighted B Corps that are driving impact across industries, communities, and the planet.

B Lab: 2024 Global Annual Report

B Lab released its 2024 Global Annual Report, highlighting the movement’s collective progress and the systemic, sustainable change worldwide.

Andrew Kassoy, B Lab co-founder honored by The New York Times

The New York Times honored Andrew Kassoy, B Lab co-founder, for his enduring legacy in advancing a global economy that benefits people, communities, and the planet.

B Lab: Certification Hub

B Lab introduced the Certification Hub, a central resource designed to help companies navigate the updated standards and strengthen their business impact.

B Lab’s Insight Series 4, Fair Work as Duty of Care

B Lab’s Insight Series 4, Fair Work as Duty of Care, featuring B Corps like Once Upon a Farm leading efforts to improve job quality and worker well-being, highlighted how centering care in the workplace builds a more inclusive economy.

Danone reached a historic milestone in 2025

Danone reached a historic milestone in 2025 by achieving 100% B Corp Certification across more than 200 entities in 60+ countries, reflecting a decade-long commitment to combining business success with social and environmental impact.

B Lab Publishes New Global Whitepaper: The Climate & Environmental Practices of B Corps

B Lab published a global white paper on B Corps’ climate and environmental practices, offering insights on current performance, potential impact, and how the new standards (V2.1) can help drive broader environmental action.

News from ASEAN

Danone Bags 15 HR Asia Awards Across ASEAN

Danone celebrated a standout moment at the HR Asia Awards with 15 recognitions across its Specialized Nutrition and Business Services teams in Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia. These awards, which include Best Companies to Work For, Diversity & Inclusion, Sustainable Workplace, Most Caring Company, and Tech Empowerment, reflect Danone’s people-first strategy that drives business growth while creating positive impact for employees, communities, and the planet.

SMEs in Malaysia to Gain from ESG Adoption

The SME Johor Selatan ESG Engagement Session 2025 brought together government, finance, and industry leaders to demonstrate how SMEs can translate ESG commitments into real action. Held in Johor Bahru, in collaboration with MIDA, the session underscored the risks of delaying adoption and highlighted the business value that comes with timely ESG integration. Genashtim’s Ee Bang Tan emphasized ESG as a growth lever and introduced the B Impact Assessment as a practical tool to strengthen performance and build readiness for B Corp certification.

TORAJAMELO’s Social and Environmental Impact Champions Indonesian Local Artisans

TORAJAMELO was recognized with the Don Norman Design Award at the DNDA25 Summit in Singapore for its human-centered and sustainable design practices. The company continues to champion Indonesian local artisans by preserving traditional craft while advancing social and environmental impact. The award highlights how thoughtful and ethical design can create meaningful change, demonstrating that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand to uplift communities and create positive outcomes on a larger scale.

EXO Honored for Redefining Travel Through Impact

Alexandra Michat, Chief Purpose Officer at EXO Travel, was recognized as a “Future Light” at the 2025 USTOA Future Light Awards, celebrating tourism leaders who are shaping meaningful and lasting change. The recognition reflects EXO Travel’s deep commitment to purpose-driven practices that emphasize social responsibility, ethical engagement, and advancing sustainability across the global travel industry.

In The Network

Engaging Frontline Communities in Climate Commitments for Equitable Action

The Forces for Good podcast’s 7th episode of Season 4 explores how businesses can move from climate commitments into equitable action. It highlights the Principles for Partnership with Frontline Communities, featuring insights from Clementina Consens and Clarenda Stanley of B Corp Green Heffa Farms. Their perspectives underscore how centering frontline voices leads to solutions that are more equitable, more resilient, and more aligned with the needs of the communities most affected by climate change.

Striking a Balance for Credibility and Transparency in Sustainability Communication

The December edition of B Lab’s Forces for Good newsletter looks at how purpose-driven brands can navigate sustainability communications in a high-stakes environment. With new EU regulations and growing scrutiny over greenwashing, businesses are challenged to communicate their commitments with clarity, credibility, and care. It explores practical strategies to help companies share progress responsibly, engage their audiences with honesty, and avoid both misrepresentation and the growing trend of “greenhushing.”

B Lab 2025 Wrap-up

B Lab closes 2025 in style with a dynamic look at the year’s biggest milestones for the B Corp movement. Highlights include the launch of Common Good, the growing strength of a global community with more than one million B Corp employees creating better business and better jobs, the introduction of updated B Lab Standards, and the Nature of Business report showing a 0.5°C lower-warming pathway. Together, these achievements show how collective action can accelerate meaningful change for people and the planet.

Coming Up in January

B Corp Year-End Community Townhall

B Market Builder SEA is hosting an online B Corp Community Townhall on 13 January 2026. The session will cover B Lab’s updated Standards V2.1, the enhanced B Impact Platform, and the Knowledge Base. Attendees will receive clear, step-by-step guidance for recertification and have the chance to join a live Q&A with the team. It is an opportunity to stay informed, connected, and inspired as we move into a new year of building stronger and more accountable businesses together.

Global Sessions on B Lab Standards V2.1

B Lab will host two global sessions on 29 January 2026 to guide participants through the updated B Corp Standards V2.1 and the certification process. Clay Brown, Co-Lead Executive of B Lab Global, will join experts from B Lab’s network to share insights on the new third-party verification system, evolving certification responsibilities, and the role of recertification in driving long-term impact. These sessions offer a practical and supportive space for businesses preparing to meet the new standards and strengthen their commitment to using business as a force for good.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org.

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November 2025 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:05:44 +0000

Editor's Note

Welcome to the November edition of our newsletter.

This edition brings together a strong lineup of achievements and initiatives that show how purpose-driven business continues to gain momentum across our region. From B Corps earning recognition for responsible leadership to companies deepening their integration of impact into everyday practice, the stories reflect a community steadily raising the bar.

This month also highlights the push to strengthen ESG capability, with programs led by Genashtim in Malaysia to improve ESG reporting and by Instellar Impact in Jakarta to integrate CSR into business strategy. In addition, B Lab has released a comprehensive resource package to guide companies through certification, audit, and licensing under the new B Lab Standards V2.1.

As we look toward 2026, the upcoming B Corp Asia Summit promises to be a major moment for the region. We hope to see B Corps come together to learn, collaborate, and shape the future of business as a force for good.

As always, we remain here to support and champion your impact journey.

The B Market Builder Southeast Asia Team

News from ASEAN

First Malaysian Firm Wins AVCJ Responsible Investment Award

Bintang Capital Partners has made history as the first Malaysian firm to win the Responsible Investment Award at the 25th AVCJ Awards. This recognition reflects the firm’s strong commitment to embedding ESG and impact principles across its BCPAF I portfolio, with 50% achieving B Corp certification. The firm’s sequel, BCPAF II, aims to further drive social inclusivity and lasting impact across Malaysia and the region.

Danone’s Innovation-Led Sustainability Wins EuroCham’s Top Award

Danone SEA wins the Leadership in Sustainovation award at the EuroCham Singapore Sustainability Awards 2025. The accolade recognizes the company’s sustainable product innovation, including its Dumex Dugro and Aptamil Kid lines, designed to support Malaysian children’s nutritional needs. With sustainability embedded in its business model, Danone continues to demonstrate that aligning purpose with performance drives positive impact across health, nature, and communities.

EXO Travel Recognized for Responsible Tourism

EXO Travel was named Responsible DMC Runner Up at the Responsible Thailand Awards 2025. The award celebrates the company’s dedication to sustainable tourism, showcased through its B Corp certification, consistent Thailand Tourism Awards performance, and initiatives that directly support climate action and local communities, including the Carbon Neutral Holiday Fund and the Reset Tourism Fund

Kingdom of Wow Marks 10 Years with Team Adventure

Kingdom of Wow celebrated its 10th anniversary in Cambodia with a team road trip to Battambang. The journey offered many staff their first experience beyond Siem Reap, reflecting the company’s commitment to team bonding and creating memorable experiences that celebrate both milestones and employee growth.

Start With Impact, Not Budget – Instellar Forum Insights

Instellar Impact hosted Impact in Action, bringing together corporates and sustainability practitioners to explore integrating CSR into business strategy. Supported by the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), speakers from Danone Indonesia and BUMA International Group shared insights on purpose-driven impact, organizational mindset shifts, and embedding sustainability across operations for lasting, meaningful change.

Equipping Professionals with Actionable ESG Reporting

On 12-13 November, Genashtim and the ESG Business Institute, in collaboration with Deloitte, launched the Deep Dive into Sustainability Reporting course in Malaysia. Over two days, participants gained practical skills in ESG frameworks, greenhouse gas accounting, and materiality analysis. The program equipped professionals with the skills to integrate sustainability data into reporting, transforming complex ESG concepts into actionable strategies for their organizations.

B Corps Respond to Typhoon Tino

Nature’s Legacy and KMC partnered with the non-profit organization, Waves for Water Philippines, to deploy more than 400 water filtration systems to communities in the Philippines affected by Typhoon Tino. These systems help families regain safe drinking water while supply lines, power, and infrastructure remain disrupted.

In The Network

Danone Achieves B Corp™ Certification Worldwide

Danone secures a major milestone by achieving global B Corp certification, now encompassing over 200 legal entities in more than 60 countries and representing roughly 9% of the entire B Corp workforce. This achievement reflects a decade-long effort and reinforces Danone’s commitment to social and environmental impact, strengthened through rigorous evaluation, employee-centered initiatives, regenerative agriculture support, climate action, and community programs worldwide.

B Lab Whitepaper’s Top 5 Findings for a Cooler Planet

B Lab’s new whitepaper highlights how B Corps lead in circularity, environmental stewardship, and climate action, showing that comprehensive sustainability practices can coexist with profitable business. The report projects that if all companies adopted B Corp-level practices, global temperature rise could decrease by 0.5°C by 2100, preventing hundreds of thousands of deaths and reducing species extinction risk.

Dignity at the Center of Business

Across two continents, B Corps are showing how to put dignity at the center of business. Senegal’s La Laiterie du Berger provides dairy farmers with stable income and community empowerment, while Australia’s Who Gives A Crap funds sanitation and clean water projects. Both demonstrate that profitable companies can advance human well-being, equity, and lasting social impact.

Certification Process Requirements Guide from B Lab Global

B Lab has published a set of new comprehensive resources to help companies prepare for certification under the new B Lab Standards V2.1. Co-Lead Executive Clay Brown explains the updated process, which launches February 2026 with audit partners SCS Global Services and To-Cert, including detailed requirements, evidence examples, and third-party auditing to strengthen credibility and align with global sustainability standards.

A Holiday Gift Guide for Thoughtful Giving

The holidays are a time to show care for the people who matter to us. Choosing gifts from B Corps lets that care extend even further, as your gesture of love also supports businesses that uplift workers, protect the planet, and give back to their communities. Explore our 2025 Gift Guide and find gifts that share warmth with your loved ones while creating impact beyond the season.

Coming Up in December

B Corp Year-End Community Townhall

B Market Builder SEA is hosting an online B Corp Community Townhall on 29 December 2025. The session will cover B Lab’s updated Standards V2.1, the enhanced B Impact Platform, and the Knowledge Base. Attendees will get step-by-step guidance for recertification and can participate in a live Q&A. Don’t miss your chance to stay informed, connected, and inspired.

Coming Up in 2026

A Premier Gathering for B Corps

We’re excited to announce that we will be hosting the B Corp Asia Summit 2026 in Malaysia, a gathering of thought leaders, investors, and practitioners committed to advancing sustainable business and the force-for-good movement. The summit will feature keynote speakers Bart Houlahan, Co-Founder of B Lab, and Prof. Christopher Marquis of the University of Cambridge.

Date: 22–23 June 2026
Rates:
- 2-day conference: USD 840
- Early Bird: USD 750 (USD 90 reservation fee) until 31 Dec 2025

Be a part of this B Corp gathering and explore the next chapter of sustainable, purpose-driven business.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org.

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October 2025 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:08:57 +0000

In This Issue

Welcome to the October edition of our newsletter. This month’s stories remind us that meaningful change often begins with care: care for communities, the planet, and the systems that sustain both.

Across industries, we’re seeing businesses turn principles into practice, from advancing renewable energy access and responsible travel to setting higher standards for transparency and accountability. Innovation is taking many forms: redefining hospitality through sustainability, strengthening ESG reporting, and reimagining what purposeful leadership looks like in a changing world. These conversations and actions, from reimagining food systems in Thailand to global gatherings in Brazil, reflect a shared determination to build an economy rooted in care and collective responsibility.

Thank you for being part of this evolving movement. Your engagement and collaboration continue to inspire us, and we remain here to support you as we learn, grow, and create lasting impact together.

The B Market Builder Southeast Asia Team

News from ASEAN

Turning Learning into Lasting Impact

We’re excited to welcome WAKUWORK to the B Corp community. Operating in Japan and the Philippines, WAKUWORK connects purpose-driven learning with social impact. Its ecosystem channels revenue from online English lessons in Japan to fund education programs for underserved youth in the Philippines, sharing a mission of empowerment and lifelong growth.

Meet the B Corp

Extending Sustainability from the Ground to Space

We’re proud to welcome Eralda Industries Ltd and Spaces4good to the ASEAN B Corp community. Eralda Industries, certified by B Lab Hong Kong/Macau in 2023, brings over 50 years of sourcing excellence, advancing responsible production and sustainability across Southeast Asia. Dutch social enterprise Space4Good, certified by B Lab EU in 2021, harnesses satellite technology, GIS, and AI to address environmental and social challenges worldwide, with growing operations in the region.

The Ocean’s Answer to Plastic

MYCL unveiled Mylea™ Sea, its latest seaweed-based biomaterial, at the Indonesia International Sustainability Forum 2025, in collaboration with DBS Bank. Sourced from Indonesia’s coastal farms, this innovation transforms seaweed into high-performance, affordable alternatives to plastic for fashion and packaging.

Lighting 150 Homes, Empowering 795 Lives

Solar Chapter and the EXO Foundation joined hands to deliver solar-powered lighting to 150 households in a remote village in Indonesia, benefiting 795 residents. The initiative cuts household lighting costs by 80%, saves over IDR 162 million annually, and prevents 860 kilograms of CO₂ emissions per home each year. Beyond renewable light, it creates safer homes, cleaner air, and new opportunities for study, work, and family connection.

New Free Course on the 2025 B Lab Standards

The ESG Business Institute, in collaboration with B Market Builder Southeast Asia, has launched a free e-learning course on the new B Lab Standards. Available in English and Spanish, the course offers practical guidance on eligibility, accountability, and impact management, helping organizations align with B Lab’s global vision for credible and purpose-driven business performance.

Note: Given that B Lab Standards are continuously refined, the course content will adapt accordingly to provide the most up-to-date guidance and practical insights.

Desa Potato Head Ranks Among Asia’s Best

Desa Potato Head Bali has once again earned a spot among Asia’s top hotels in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. Celebrated for its innovative design, sustainability ethos, and community-driven hospitality, Desa Potato Head continues to redefine conscious travel in Bali. This repeat recognition places it alongside Asia’s most acclaimed destinations, reaffirming its status as a global leader in responsible luxury and cultural experience.

Forging a Healthier, Fairer Food Future for All

At Danone Thailand’s 2025 Sustainability Press Conference, industry leaders and experts explored how collaboration can advance a fair, health-focused food system. Ee Beng Tan, Director of B Market Builder SEA, joined the panel to highlight how ethics, transparency, and accountability, which are embedded in B Corp Standards, can strengthen trust and drive measurable impact across Thailand’s evolving food ecosystem.

In the Network

Care as Resistance

“Care is perhaps our most fundamental human need… a lack of care breeds fear, and when we are afraid, we’re vulnerable to those who seek power,” said B Lab Co-founder Jay Coen Gilbert at Encuentro+B 2025 in Belém, Brazil. The largest gathering of Latin American B Corps, the event explored how care, guided by the new B Lab Standards, can reshape businesses.

Can Travel Be Truly Sustainable?

In Episode 2 of Forces for Good (Season 4), B Lab Global explores whether one of the world’s largest industries, travel, can become a genuine force for regeneration. Featuring Julie Cheetham, COO of Travalyst, and Rodrigo Atuesta, CIO of Colombian B Corp Impulse Travel, the discussion dives into how tourism can protect ecosystems, preserve culture, and empower communities through responsible practices and better data-driven decisions.

Winning the Race to Zero

In Episode 3 of Forces for Good (Season 4), B Lab Global examines how businesses can still thrive despite cutting emissions. From SMEs to global corporations, the race to net zero is redefining what leadership looks like. Host Irving Chan-Gomez, together with Jane Eisenhardt of the UN Climate Champions and Cecilia Plicco of Chiesi Group, a certified B Corp, prove that even high-emission industries can drive meaningful decarbonization.

Coming up next Month!

Deep-Dive into Sustainability Reporting

Frameworks like GRI and ISSB can be complex, especially with dual-reporting requirements. Genashtim and Deloitte are conducting a two-day training course, “Deep-Dive into Sustainability Reporting”, on 12-13 November 2025 at Dorsett Grand Subang to help professionals gain clarity and confidence in sustainability reporting. Learn to align financial and sustainability goals, assess climate risks, and apply global disclosure standards effectively. Register now to secure your spot and enhance your reporting expertise.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org

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September 2025 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 07:26:19 +0000

In This Issue

Welcome to the September edition of our newsletter.

This month, we celebrate the power of ideas, leadership, and shared values that continue to shape our region’s progress. From Indonesia’s thriving digital economy to standout creativity in Asia’s communications sector, we’re reminded that impact comes in many forms, and each one is worth recognizing.

Sustainability is showing up in everyday decisions. Whether it’s repairing clothes to extend the garment’s life or seeing legacy brands enter new markets with purpose, these actions reflect a growing commitment to doing business differently. Global ESG conversations also highlight how priorities differ, but the goal remains the same: building lasting value through intentional and responsible practices.

Climate leadership continues to bring us together. Insights from global forums and local discussions on governance, supply chains, and collective action show that collaboration is key. As we look ahead to Assembly 2025 in New South Wales, we’re excited about the possibilities that come from gathering with intention, where bold ideas, honest dialogue, and shared action can thrive.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your commitment inspires us, and we’re always here to support you as we continue building, learning, and leading together.

The B Market Builder Southeast Asia team

News from ASEAN

DCI’s 100% Uptime Reliability Earns Fitch ‘AA-’ Rating

Fitch Ratings has awarded DCI, Indonesia’s leading data center provider, a first-time National Long-Term Rating of ‘AA-(idn)’ with Stable Outlook, marking a strong vote of confidence in the company’s market leadership, reliable infrastructure, and sound financial strategy. With 100% uptime (no service interruptions) since launching operations in 2013, scalable capacity, and long-term customer contracts, DCI is helping shape Indonesia’s digital transformation while delivering sustainable, future-ready solutions for both enterprises and hyperscalers.

Vero Crowned Asia’s Top Agency for Progressive Impact

Vero, a leading communications consultancy in ASEAN, has been named Asia Agency of the Year 2025 at PRovoke Media’s SABRE Awards. The recognition celebrates Vero’s bold ideas, creative excellence, and meaningful impact across Southeast Asia. This win highlights the agency’s role in shaping powerful brand stories and setting higher standards for communications throughout the Asia Pacific region.

Who is your nomination for the 2025 Startup Awards?

Nominations are now open for the 3rd KMC Startup Awards, celebrating innovation, impact, and excellence across the startup ecosystem. From standout founders to breakthrough technologies, this is your chance to gain recognition among industry leaders shaping the future. Submit your nomination by 6 October and secure your chance to shine.

Giving Fashion a Second Life

The KEMBALI BAIK program encourages people to rethink their relationship with clothing by embracing repair, modification, and creative mending. At its 16 August workshop in Grand Indonesia, participants learned hands-on techniques with guidance from Bev Tan of Tusukco, highlighting how mindful repairs can reduce waste, spark creativity, and breathe new life into garments, each one carrying a renewed story worth sharing.

US$1.29B Market Beckons as InNature Expands to Singapore

InNature Bhd, operator of The Body Shop in Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia, is entering the Singapore market through a S$3.16 million acquisition of The Body Shop Singapore. Funded through internal resources, the move positions InNature to tap into a fast-growing cosmetics and personal care market projected to hit US$1.29 billion by 2025, nearly half of which is driven by digital sales.

Meeting ESG Expectations in Outsourcing Models

In a recent FCPA Compliance Report interview, Inge Z., ESG Lead at Emapta Global, shares how ESG can be embedded into outsourcing models. As Australia tightens its focus on hiring practices, the US shifts toward people-focused governance, and Europe prioritizes employee welfare, the conversation highlights how aligning with regional expectations can turn ESG into a strategic advantage and a key driver of long-term business value.

In the Network

B Lab’s Push for Change

In a recent Times piece, B Lab Co-Lead Executive Sarah Schwimmer highlighted the movement’s rapid growth and made the case that certifying larger, complex companies is critical for systemic change. With tougher new standards on climate, workers, and supply chains, she emphasized that transformation must happen within high-impact industries. The takeaway was clear: real reform requires big players to commit, proving businesses can serve people and planet, not just profit

Forces for Good S4 – Nature at the Table

Season 4 of Forces For Good shifts from pledges to practical climate action, spotlighting industries from finance to fashion. In the premiere episode, host Irving Chan-Gomez speaks with B Corp leaders Simeon Rose of Faith In Nature and Ben Mand of Yerba Madre about giving nature a voice in the boardroom, building resilient supply chains, and linking governance with lasting environmental impact.

Climate Week NYC – Collaboration & Real Action Over Hype

As Climate Week NYC kicks off, the focus shifts from headline-grabbing pledges to building resilient, business-focused coalitions. In a Wall Street Journal interview, B Lab Co-Lead Executive Sarah Schwimmer stressed the need for community and moral courage to drive climate action despite political pushbacks.

Coming up next Month!

Explore, Debate, and Connect at Assembly 2025

From 20-22 October, B Lab Australia & Aotearoa New Zealand will host Assembly 2025, a three-day B Corp community gathering in Darkinjung Country, NSW. Focused on climate, systems, and connection, the event is designed to spark bold ideas, foster honest conversations and inspire collective action. Learn more and register for Assembly 2025.

Stay tuned for more updates! Got questions? Drop us a message at comms@bcorpsea.org

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