ESG in the boardroom: evidence from the Malaysian market

Abstract This study examines the influence of boards’ characteristics with respect to independence, diversity, and diligence on environment, social, governance (ESG) disclosure among Bursa Malaysia companies. The board are proxied by percentage independent directors, women board, number meetings, respectively. We collected data from all 785 companies listed Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. Our final sample consisted 91 that have an ESG score. Using GLS panel regression analysis, our findings overall indicate independence diversity enhance practice significantly for in sectors. However, is related negatively disclosure. As expected, significance relations disclosures more profound 2014 onward, largely because changes regulatory requirements. provides new understanding insights pertaining importance initiatives Malaysian context. research complements studies areas sustainability strategy, contributes business practices composition boards directors.