The ACES Awards reflect the improvement in standards of excellence of Asian companies

KUALA LUMPUR, 16 Oct: Standards of organizational excellence in Asia continue to rise, driven by the company's continued efforts to strengthen performance and reach higher levels.

MORS Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Shanggari Balakrishnan said that the development is seen through the increased participation of companies from the region in Asia Corporate Excellence & Sustainability (ACES) Awards to test their respective capabilities and achieve higher standards of excellence.

"Since its introduction in 2014, the ACES Awards have undergone significant changes in terms of rating standards, with this year's award recipients reflecting a higher level of excellence.

"In 2026, we are no longer just looking at meeting a list of criteria, but rather evaluating excellence that exceeds the set requirements", he said as he met TVS at the 13th edition of the ACES Awards 2026 ceremony, in a hotel here, today.

Commenting on the sustainability aspect, Shanggari said that the concept should not be considered complicated because it is closely related to how an organization thinks and makes decisions.

Obviously, that approach can add value to business operations, particularly in ensuring more efficient use of resources without adding a burden on the workforce.

"Clestarianism is really a way of thinking and making decisions. Viewed from that perspective, it has become an essential requirement in a business capable of adding value to resource use without burdening employees", he said.

Meanwhile, he also expressed confidence in the development of sustainability practices among companies in Asia, including sustained performance improvements in the Philippines.

He said that the ACES Awards are able to continue to be a platform for best practices sharing between countries in the region to encourage more organisations to achieve excellence sustainably.

"I hope that through the ACES initiative, this message can be extended not only in the Philippines but also throughout Asia so that we can learn from each other's excellence and continue to grow", he said.

At the ceremony, Sarawak-based company Cahya Mata Sarawak also received recognition through this year's Industry Champions of the Year award.

Held on October 15 and 16, the ACES Awards 2026 carries the theme "Beyond Business", with an emphasis on responsible leadership, corporate excellence and sustainability impacts.

The 13th edition of the event involves more than 25 countries in Asia, recognizing organizations and corporate leaders who demonstrate outstanding performance and commitment to sustainable development. - TVS