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
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.
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.
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
Copyright 2024 B Market Builder Southeast Asia
