Bcorpsea

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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August 2025 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 07:16:58 +0000

In This Issue

In this edition, we celebrate the bold strides ASEAN businesses are making to embed impact at the core of their operations. From EXO Travel’s Sustainability Report to Emapta’s borderless workforce model, we’re seeing how purpose-driven strategies deliver results while supporting growth and efficiency.

As digital innovation accelerates across the region, CIIP’s latest report sheds light on how tech-enabled solutions are advancing inclusive growth and expanding opportunity for all.

We commend The Habitat Penang Hill on receiving the 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice award, an inspiring recognition of its immersive rainforest experiences and steadfast commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. Meanwhile, Fuller Academy’s partnership with Genashtim is helping ASEAN companies pursue B Corp certification, making it easier than ever to embed purpose into the DNA of business.

And as B Lab Standards enter a transition phase, the launch of the Certification Hub offers a one-stop resource for companies navigating the new V2.1 Updates, Risk Tools, and Scope and Standards Transition, ensuring a smoother path to certification.

At B Market Builder Southeast Asia, we are proud to stand alongside a growing community of ASEAN changemakers who are building businesses that are not only resilient and innovative but deeply rooted in purpose.

The B Market Builder Southeast Asia team

News from ASEAN

EXO Travel Walks the Talk in Responsible Tourism

EXO Travel’s latest Sustainability Report showcases real progress, from reducing single-use plastic to enhancing carbon reporting and growing its Travel for Good collection. With concrete actions and bold goals, EXO is proving that purpose and performance go hand in hand.

Your Path to Smarter Growth? A Borderless Workforce

Emapta’s borderless workforce model is redefining what smart growth looks like. In a recent ESG BI webinar, leaders shared how tapping into global talent has become a game-changer for B Corps: fueling growth, slashing costs, and expanding reach without compromising values. The takeaway? For mission-driven companies, the future of work isn’t just flexible, it’s borderless.

Purpose Pays Off. Learn Strategies from Industry Leaders

Impact in Action returns with a sharp focus on how businesses can move beyond check-the-box initiatives into a powerful growth engine. This edition, “Unlocking the Strategic Power of CSR for Business Growth,” will be held on Wednesday, 3 September 2025, at Danone Indonesia, Jakarta. Leaders from Standard Chartered Indonesia and Danone Indonesia will share insights through keynotes, fireside chats, and networking opportunities designed to turn purpose into profit.

Digital Innovation Meets Inclusive Impact

At Asia Tech x Singapore 2025 (ATxSG), CIIP, together with the Tech For Good Institute and IPOS International, with support from IMDA, launched “Digital Sustainability: Southeast Asia’s Next Frontier for Impact and Innovation.” Drawing from surveys, interviews, and case studies, the report explores how digital solutions are unlocking inclusive growth across finance, agriculture, and healthcare in the region. It’s a powerful call to action for businesses ready to lead at the intersection of tech and purpose.

The Habitat Penang Hill is TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice for 2025

The Habitat Penang Hill has been named a 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award winner, placing it among the top 10% of attractions worldwide. This recognition celebrates more than just rave reviews; it highlights The Habitat’s commitment to immersive rainforest experiences, conservation, environmental education, and sustainable tourism. Proof that protecting nature can also create an unforgettable impact.

A Fresh Chapter for ASEAN’s Responsible Businesses

Fuller Academy is teaming up with Genashtim, Southeast Asia’s B Market Builder, to help ASEAN companies navigate the path to B Corp certification with clarity and confidence. This partnership goes beyond compliance; it’s about embedding purpose into the heart of business. Because companies that lead with purpose aren’t just keeping up, they’re setting the pace for a more inclusive, resilient economy.

In the Network

Fair Work is Smart Business

Work is more than just paychecks; it’s about dignity, stability, and voice. In The Business Case for Fair Work, B Lab makes a compelling case for why caring for workers is both an ethical imperative and a smart business strategy. Featuring B Corp Once Upon a Farm, the piece shows how investing in fair wages, wellbeing, and worker voice strengthens supply chains, improves quality, and drives long-term resilience. Because when people thrive, business does too.

Raising the Bar for Fair Work, Globally

B Lab’s new global whitepaper shows how B Corps are setting a higher bar for work worldwide. Going beyond wages, these businesses are embedding practices that promote stability, mobility, and worker voice. The message is clear: fair, dignified jobs don’t just build stronger companies, but they also help reduce inequality and spark systemic change.

Stay Ahead in B Corp Certification with Certification Hub

B Lab has launched the Certification Hub, a centralized resource to help companies navigate the transition to its updated standards. With the latest version (V2.1), new risk tools, scoping rules, and key milestones now live, the Hub offers everything businesses need to stay informed and prepared ahead of 2026. Explore what the changes mean for your journey toward impact.

Coming up next Month!

Impact Investors Aligning with B Corps Values

On 2 September 2025, GAIL Asia Pacific is bringing together speakers from Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Korea, and the UK for a dynamic webinar exploring how values-driven capital and B Corp Certification are reshaping the future of business and finance. From real-world practices to bold new ideas, this dialogue will spotlight how purpose is powering a more resilient financial system. Register now to join the conversation.

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

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DRAFT 2025 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 06:41:51 +0000

Editor's Note

2024 was a wonderful year for the B Corp Movement in Southeast Asia. From the growing numbers of our members to the wonderful events we organized and the partnerships that we have forged, it has been a very exciting journey.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the B Corp Community, B Lab Global, Government Agencies, and media organizations for supporting us every step of the way and making this journey ever more meaningful.

We begin 2025 with renewed energy, as we prepare for B Corp Month in March—a time to celebrate and highlight businesses making a positive impact. This year’s theme, Generation B, emphasizes the power of businesses to shape a better future. We look forward to sharing more with you in the coming months!

Here’s to stepping boldly into 2025 together.

2024 - Year End Review

January

ASEAN B Corp Featured in The Edge Newspaper: A comprehensive coverage of B Corp, its movement, benefits, challenges, and future. Other featured experts included Prof. Chris Marquis (Cornell University), Datin Mina Cheah (InNature BHD), Johan Rozali-Wathooth (Bintang Capital Partners), Thomas Ng (Genashtim/BMB SEA), and more.

March

The “Better Business Impact” Conference was organized by Bintang Capital Partners and BMB SEA in conjunction with B Corp Month in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Key speakers included YB Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad (Minister of Natural Resources), Dawn Chan (Temasek Trust Capital), and Isik O. (B Lab Global).
“Barn Raising 2024” in Jakarta was a collaboration among Danone, SukkhaCitta, and BMB SEA during B Corp Month to promote sustainable organizations. Speakers included Rosy Wediawaty (BAPPENAS), Marcello Palazzi (B Lab Europe), and Thomas Ng (BMB SEA).
Press Coverage in Thailand put a spotlight on the growing B Corp movement during B Corp Month, featuring Danone Nutrition Thailand, PALO IT, and others.

Apr – May

The Launch of RM 35 Mil Domestic Investment Accelerator Fund (DIAF) and MIDA partnering with Genashtim/BMB SEA to integrate the B Impact Assessment (BIA) as a self-assessment tool to encourage ESG adoption in Malaysia.
B Corp Virtual Masterclass: Conducted five intensive sessions for YPO-led companies in Southeast Asia.
B Corp APAC Retreat in Taipei: Asia Pacific leaders gathered for strategy discussions, tours, and workshops.

Jul

National Bioeconomy Showcase: BMB SEA presented B Corp products and ESG best practices at the World Trade Centre, KL, Malaysia.
Discussed B Corp’s position within ESG frameworks in a live podcast at the National Bioeconomy Showcase 2024
Touring KMC Solutions: Invited by the largest B Corp in the Philippines to share sustainability and leadership practices.

August – October

B Corp Deep Dive Masterclass: A three-session ESG webinar series, led by Tan Ee Beng, Genashtim’s ESG Head, and Yudhi Pradhana of BMB SEA, was held from August to October.
Freight Forwarder Conference: BMB SEA facilitated discussions on ESG integration through BIA for 60+ global member companies.
ASUENE, a certified B Corp, debuted its groundbreaking carbon accounting platform at CES 2024, the world’s largest tech trade fair.
ASEAN Sustainability Conference: BMB SEA’s Yudhi Pradhana talked about “Ensuring Ethical Practices in Global Supply Chains: Standards and Certifications” at the 39th Trade Expo Indonesia.

November

Eurocham Green Business Conference: BMB SEA and Danone Cambodia shared insights on B Corp and Danone’s success with the public and private sectors in Cambodia. The media outlets in attendance included Phnom Penh Post and Khmer Times.

December

Over 417 companies adopted the BIA for ESG performance measurement following MIDA’s partnership with BMB SEA to integrate the B Impact Assessment (BIA) as a self-assessment tool to encourage ESG adoption in Malaysia.

ASEAN B Corp Milestone

DCI Indonesia was honored to be included in the Forbes Best Under a Billion 2024 list!

Xurya, a B Corp start-up, became the first renewable energy company in Indonesia to receive direct funding from the Norwegian Climate Investment Fund, leading to a new investment round totaling USD 55 million.

Danone Southeast Asia Snatched Multiple Prizes in the HR Asia Awards 2024, for their positive employee development, employee engagement, and workplace culture in the region.

Bintang Capital Partners became the first Southeast Asian winner of the prestigious United Nations-support Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) Award for their clear commitment to aligning financial returns with measurable ESG outcomes.

Saitex Mill strengthened its sustainability commitments by becoming a Bluesign System Partner, a leading global and independent approval system for the sustainable textile industry.

Vista Eyes Specialist was once again recognized as a Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Asia Awards winner for 2024, reaffirming consumer confidence in their services.

MYCL (Indonesia) was honored as one of the 15 finalists at Prince William’s Earthshot Prize in Cape Town.

Two Bintang Capital Partners, Involve Asia and Care Concierge got Certified as B Corps!

Aliet Green won the global award in COP29 for empowering farmers with climate-smart solutions.

Sustainability Champions Who Joined the Ranks of B Corp in 2024

The Latest Number from Our Growing Movement

Do you have any questions or stories you’d like to share? Please feel free to send us an email at info@bcorpsea.org

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July 2025 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 06:01:51 +0000

In This Issue

This month, we celebrate stories that show how business can be a powerful force for good, rooted in creativity, purpose, and real-world impact.

From Bali’s vibrant sustainability scene to B Corp banks reshaping the future of finance, the momentum in Southeast Asia is unmistakable. We spotlight Potato Head’s inspiring 15-year journey in Bali, VISTA’s 26^th Eye Carnival bringing care across Malaysia, and the Better Business School program empowering changemakers in Kuala Lumpur.

We take a deeper look into JEDI: Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, a transformative framework for building fair businesses. At KMC Solutions, we highlight its bold vision for work without borders, showing how innovation can unlock opportunity across the region.

Finally, a solemn moment to honor the legacy of Andrew Kassoy, whose vision helped spark a global movement for a just and accountable business. His obituary in The New York Times is a powerful reminder of how one person’s commitment to purpose can inspire generations and reshape systems.

As we continue to build momentum, we’re reminded that meaningful change starts with connection to people, place, and shared values.

Thank you for being part of this community. Let’s keep building together.

The B Market Builder Southeast Asia team

News from ASEAN

Potato Head Turns Fifteen

Step into the heart of Bali to celebrate Potato Head’s 15 years of creativity, culture, and conscious hospitality. Founder Ronald Akili shares the story behind Desa Potato Head’s transformation into a cultural village, a place where sustainability meets soulful design. From sacred rituals to surf breaks and culinary treasures, discover how this iconic destination reflects the vibrant spirit of the island and a vision for a better future.

Celebrating Sight the VISTA Way

VISTA Eye Specialist marked its 26th anniversary with the Vision Wonderland Eye Carnival, a vibrant celebration of eye health and community. Held across two weekends in July 2025, the carnival brought engaging, family-friendly eye health experiences across Malaysia, including PJ, Penang, Ipoh, and Johor Bahru. Visitors explored advanced treatments like LASIK, ICL, and CLEAR PRO in a festive setting that blended wellness, innovation, and fun.

Purpose is the New Power to Scale

From 21 to 25 July, Lynch Pin Holdings conducted the Better Business School (BBS) program at the Asia School of Business in Kuala Lumpur, a week of deep learning and bold ideas. Business leaders gathered to explore how to scale with integrity and impact. Thomas Ng, Founder and CEO of Genashtim, delivered a powerful message on purpose-driven leadership, reminding us that meaningful change starts with purpose. Genashtim’s ESG Services Manager, Ee Beng Tan, followed with a practical breakdown of ESG as a tool for driving measurable, lasting impact.

JEDI is The New DEI

B Market Builder Thailand, in collaboration with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atsasit Pankaew from Thammasat University explores the evolution from DEI to JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) as a more impactful framework for sustainable business. The article highlights how structural justice goes beyond representation, laying the foundation for long-term resilience. JEDI is positioned not as a CSR initiative but as a strategic business imperative aligned with global ESG standards and B Corp values.

KMC Co-Founder: The Future of Work is Borderless

TechShake Asia, a startup ecosystem builder, explores the future of work with Michael McCullough, Co-Founder of KMC Solutions. A Certified B Corp in the Philippines, KMC is redefining workspaces and offshore staffing with 30+ locations, empowering Filipino talent and supporting startups, SMEs, and multinationals in navigating a fast-changing, borderless business landscape through flexible, impact-driven solutions.

In the Network

Andrew Kassoy’s Impact Lives On

The New York Times recently honored the life and legacy of Andrew Kassoy, co-founder of B Lab, whose vision helped redefine the role of business in society. Leaving behind a successful career in private equity, Andrew dedicated himself to building a movement rooted in justice and care. His work laid the foundation for the global B Corp community and inspired lasting reforms in corporate governance, with a focus on people, communities, and the planet.

Banking on Equity: How B Corp Banks are Rewriting Finance

While global account ownership is rising, true financial inclusion remains elusive. Certified B Corps Toss Bank in South Korea and Androscoggin Bank in Maine are challenging this status quo by redesigning financial services to meet real community needs. From digital saving tools for underserved populations to culturally responsive mortgage solutions, these banks are proving that finance built on equity, trust, and accountability can empower and not exclude.

Intrepid’s Blueprint for Better Business

Intrepid Travel has released “The Business of Better,” an open-source guide that reveals how B Corp certification has fueled its growth across governance, finance, and brand. With a 2025 B Corp score of 102.5, Intrepid demonstrates how purpose-driven businesses can deliver measurable, lasting success. The guide highlights stronger risk management, record financial performance, and deeper staff engagement, offering a practical blueprint for companies committed to scaling with impact.

Coming up next Month!

Putting People at the Heart of Impact

The ESG Business Institute will host a webinar on 06 August 2025, exploring People-Centered Sustainability, a framework that places human potential at the core of sustainable business strategy. Featuring Nana Sbeihi of KHRS, a leader in strategic HR and leadership development, the session will examine how culture and leadership drive long-term impact. Register now to explore how people drive real sustainability.

Curated Malaysian Gifts for a Memorable Merdeka

In celebration of Malaysia’s Independence Day, Batik Boutique is offering exclusive corporate gifts featuring thoughtfully curated and fully customizable bundles to reflect the richness of Malaysian culture. Featuring artisanal, locally made products, these gifts offer a meaningful way to honor national pride, strengthen relationships, and showcase your brand’s commitment to authenticity and impact. This Merdeka, make a lasting impression with gifts that speak to quality, heritage, and care.

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

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June 2025 Edition

Loo Shao Chuo — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 05:35:20 +0000

In This Issue

We begin this message with heavy hearts as we honor the life and legacy of Andrew Kassoy, Co-Founder of B Lab, who passed away on 22 June after a courageous journey with cancer. Andrew’s vision and values shaped the very foundation of the B Corp movement. His unwavering belief in business as a force for good—and his call to build a true Community of Care—continues to guide and inspire us all. We invite you to reflect on Andrew’s vision in the tribute video HERE.

In this spirit, we remain humbled by the strength and solidarity of our community. Even in the midst of grief, we’ve witnessed B Corps across the region—like Nicholas Delange of Yever—rise to meet the devastation of the March 2025 earthquake in Myanmar with courage, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to lead. Whether through bold new programs like the return of Amplifier or the DBS Foundation’s search for transformative ideas, this movement remains a living reflection of the ideals Andrew helped bring to life.

As B Lab introduces the next evolution of B Corp standards, we are reminded that these changes are not simply technical—they are deeply personal. They ask us to dig deeper, to act with intention, and to uphold the collective responsibility that Andrew so passionately believed in.

Let us carry forward his legacy by continuing to build—with care, courage, and community.

The B Market Builder Southeast Asia team.

News from ASEAN

Turning Myanmar’s Tragedy into a Strategy for Good

Amid the devastation of Myanmar’s recent earthquake, ASEAN B Corp Yever rose to action. Despite suffering personal losses, the team channeled their grief into purpose, launching www.reliefformyanmar.org to support relief efforts. The initiative, built with urgency and heart, reflects Yever’s commitment to using business as a force for good. Please support their efforts by visiting their website

KMC People-First Workspaces Win all WELL Ratings

KMC becomes the first company in the world to earn all three WELL Ratings—Health-Safety, Equity, and Coworking—across its entire portfolio. This achievement reflects KMC’s deep belief that safe, inclusive, and inspiring workspaces spark human potential. KMC continues to build its spaces with purpose, grounded in global standards, and designed to help people thrive at work.

Ready to Scale? Apply as an Amplifier Mentee!

The Amplifier mentorship program returns in 2025 with new thematic tracks—Textile Circularity, Sustainable Tourism, and Inclusive Employment—designed to scale impact-driven businesses across Asia. Co-developed by Centre for Impact Investing and Practices (CIIP) and the Philanthropy Asia Alliance (PAA), the program convenes multi-sector partners to unlock funding, drive innovation, and accelerate sustainable growth.

Applications for the 2025 cohort are now open until 27 July. Don’t miss the opportunity to apply before the deadline.

Fuel Your Impact – DBS Grants Now Open!

The DBS Foundation Grant Call is now open to impact-driven businesses across Asia. With a focus on providing essential needs and fostering inclusion, DBS seeks scalable and sustainable models that uplift lives and empower communities. Eligible businesses can apply for funding to grow their impact through initiatives like R&D, market expansion, and infrastructure development.

In the Network

When Others Stepped Back, B Lab Stepped Up

B Lab’s 2024 Annual Report is now live – capturing a year when, as others pulled back from sustainability, this global community stepped up. Through bold leadership and collective action, B Lab and its network advanced systemic change. The interactive report highlights key milestones, insights, and voices shaping a more equitable and regenerative future.

The Next Era of B Corp Certification Begins

In April, B Lab unveiled its new standards, marking a bold evolution for the B Corp movement. Clay Brown, Co-Lead Executive at B Lab Global, reflects on the journey behind this transformation, the challenges in raising the bar, and the collective ambition driving what’s next for B Lab, its community, and the future of business.

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

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