KUCHING – Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus’ business lecturers Dr Yii Kwang Jing, Dr Maggie Tang May Jean and Dr Leong Choi Meng, in collaboration with Professor Wei Jiuchang and Dr Wan Liang from the School of Public Affairs of University of Science and Technology of China, have won the Most Innovative Research Award in the Research Poster Competition at the recent Global Business Leader Forum.
Their project, titled “The Greener Future: How Monetary Policy and Green Innovation Drive Clean Energy Investment in Malaysia and China”, utilises advanced econometric methods to analyse the effects of monetary policy and green innovation on clean energy investment in these two emerging economies.
The research offers practical insights, urging businesses to prioritise green technologies and sustainable urban practices. It also recommends that policymakers enhance green financing, support research and development (R&D) and introduce incentives to promote sustainability.
“The findings emphasise the pivotal role clean energy strategies play in fostering global sustainable development. This recognition demonstrates how our research extends its impact not only to academic theory but also to practical applications for businesses and policymakers,” said Dr Yii.
“This project aligns with Swinburne’s flagship research areas, particularly Innovative Society and Innovative Planet. These research areas aim to lead social innovation, achieve a carbon-neutral future and combine cutting-edge technology with social sciences to address global challenges, from digital inclusion to sustainable energy management,” he added.
Another team, consisting of Swinburne Sarawak PhD student Joel Wong En Tong along with his supervisory team, Dr Yii Kwang Jing, Dr Gabriel Wee Wei En and Dr Eryadi Masli, received the Best Research E-Poster Award for their project “Antecedents of Entrepreneurship towards SMEs Financial Performance: Missing Gap of Sustainability”.
This research explores how entrepreneurial attributes influence Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) adoption and the financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. By employing systematic review and innovative frameworks, the research identifies ESG as a critical mediator in driving long-term value creation. It provides actionable insights for policymakers and SME owners or managers to navigate sustainability challenges.
The winning team for Best Research E-Poster Award. Seen are (from left) Dr Gabriel Wee Wei En, Joel Wong En Tong and Dr Yii Kwang Jing.
“As a PhD candidate at Swinburne Sarawak, this award reflects my commitment to equipping SMEs with the entrepreneurial mindset needed to navigate sustainability challenges. In today’s dynamic business environment, sustainability is no longer optional. Businesses must transition from profit-centric models to incorporating ESG principles into their operations,” said Wong.
The project highlights the critical role of sustainable business practices and ESG integration for resilience and competitiveness, reflecting Swinburne’s dedication to advancing innovative research that addresses global sustainability challenges.
The competition was held on 7 November 2024 at UCSI Hotel Kuching. The Research Poster Competition was a platform for highlighting sustainability leadership in reshaping global business practices within accounting, finance and business fields.
The Global Business Leader Forum showcased innovative strategies, case studies and theoretical frameworks, emphasising how businesses and leaders worldwide are driving transformative sustainability initiatives.
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