Two Merdeka Group companies received recognition at the 2024 Asia Sustainability Reporting Rating (ASRRAT). This prestigious awards program, now in its 20th year, is organized by the National Center for Corporate Reporting (NCCR) and the Institute of Certified Sustainability Practitioners, two leading institutions driving the advancement of sustainability reporting standards in Indonesia. The event was held at Hotel Raffles in Jakarta on November 21, 2024, under the theme Enhanced Transparency and Accountability for Sustainable Business.
These awards acknowledge Merdeka Group’s commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability through sustainability reporting. PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk received the Silver Rank, while PT Merdeka Battery Materials Tbk (MBM), participating for the first time, was awarded the Gold Rank. MBM also received a special Commendation for First Year Participation.
Bahtiar Manurung, ESG and Climate Change Manager of Merdeka Group, accepted the award for Merdeka Copper Gold, while Hendrik Kuit, Environment General Manager of Merdeka Group, represented MBM. These honors reflect the high quality of the companies’ sustainability reports in presenting their performance, commitments, and strategies with clarity and accountability.
ASRRAT, held annually since 2005, aims to promote the continuous improvement of corporate sustainability reporting. According to V. Saptarini, Chair of the ASRRAT 2024 jury, participation from 70 organizations across various sectors, including 11 first-time entrants, underscores growing awareness of the importance of sustainability. Evaluations are conducted independently based on international standards such as the Global Reporting Initiative and regulations from Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority, ensuring credible and impactful reports.
“We believe transparency and accountability are essential foundations for sustainable business,” said Bahtiar Manurung. “These accolades are the result of our team’s dedication, and our sustainability reports embody the values we uphold in contributing to sustainable development.”
Hendrik Kuit added that the recognition serves as motivation for continued innovation. “As a first-time participant, we are honored to receive the Gold Rank,” he said. “This achievement encourages us to further strengthen our sustainability commitments for a better future.”
NCCR, as the first independent organization in Indonesia to develop and promote the concept of “sustainability reporting,” has played a pivotal role in fostering transparency and accountability in sustainable business practices. Ali Darwin, Chair of NCCR, noted that the global trend toward sustainability reporting is gaining momentum, including in Indonesia, with the adoption of frameworks such as the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB). “Mandatory sustainability reporting encourages companies to be more transparent and accountable for their social and environmental impacts,” he stated.
With this recognition, Merdeka Group reaffirms its dedication to continually enhancing the quality and impact of its sustainability reports, contributing positively to society and the environment.
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Main Photo: Hendrik Kuit, Environment General Manager, receives the ASRRAT 2024 award on behalf of MBM.
