Kenanga Investors leads third Dive Against Debris initiative

Kenanga Investors Berhad has reaffirmed its dedication to environmental responsibility by returning as the lead sponsor of the Dive Against Debris initiative for the third consecutive year. The programme, organised by the Black Eye Scuba Team (BEST), took place from 10 to 12 May 2025 at Long Beach, Pulau Perhentian Kecil, drawing participants from both Malaysia and abroad. The initiative focused on removing marine waste while raising public awareness about environmental conservation and sustainability.

Supported by local government agencies and graced by the presence of YBrs Encik Mohamad Ridwan Mohd Nor, Yang DiPertua Majlis Daerah Besut, the campaign mobilised a strong team of volunteers—including 25 representatives from Kenanga Investors, consisting of employees, distribution partners, and clients. Together, volunteers successfully cleared 282.4 kilogrammes of waste from the beach and surrounding marine areas, marking a significant community-driven achievement in protecting coastal ecosystems.

Sustainability starts with education

In line with its long-term commitment to creating social impact, Kenanga Investors also extended the initiative to the classroom. A special environmental conservation talk was held at Sekolah Kebangsaan Pulau Perhentian, designed to instil early awareness of sustainability among schoolchildren. By engaging with the younger generation, the firm hopes to nurture a culture of environmental stewardship that lasts a lifetime.

“Phase 3 marks our third year supporting this initiative and reinforces our commitment to environmental, social, and governance priorities,” said Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Investors. “We believe in taking active steps to protect our environment and remain dedicated to long-term efforts that drive meaningful and lasting change. This initiative is one of the many ways we uphold our belief in ‘Invest for Good’.”

‘Invest for Good’ in action

Beyond its work in environmental conservation, Kenanga Investors continues to exemplify its ESG values through pioneering financial solutions. The firm is particularly proud of the Eq8 FTSE Malaysia Enhanced Dividend Waqf ETF (Eq8WAQF), the world’s first ETF to integrate Waqf principles. This award-winning fund not only delivers financial returns but channels a portion of its income into charitable causes, showcasing how finance can be used to serve both investors and communities.

“We are thankful to everyone who represented Kenanga Investors during this programme,” added Datuk Wira De Alwis. “It is through the dedication of all of our stakeholders that we bring our values to life and make a tangible difference where it matters.”

Award-winning impact and recognition

Kenanga Investors’ environmental and social initiatives are part of a broader track record of excellence in Malaysia’s fund management industry. The firm was recently recognised at the Morningstar Awards 2025, where its Kenanga Blue Chip Fund won Best Malaysia Large-Cap Equity Fund. Its subsidiary Eq8 Capital Sdn Bhd received a Special Award – Thought Leadership at the Bursa Excellence Awards 2024 for launching Eq8WAQF.

Kenanga Investors also secured multiple accolades at the LSEG Lipper Fund Awards Malaysia 2025, including recognition for funds like the Kenanga DividendExtra Fund, Kenanga Balanced Fund, and Kenanga SyariahEXTRA Fund for their long-term performance. Further solidifying its leadership, the firm was named Malaysia Best Impact Investing Manager and Malaysia CEO of the Year (Co-Winner) at the Asia Asset Management’s 2025 Best of the Best Awards.

For the eighth consecutive year, Kenanga Investors maintained its IMR-2 investment manager rating from the Malaysian Rating Corporation Berhad, affirming its sound risk management and robust investment practices.