At SX2024, the largest sustainability expo in ASEAN, two influential business leaders—Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, operator of AirAsia, and Panote Sirivadhanabhakdi, CEO of Frasers Property Limited—shared a bold vision for driving sustainability across the region. Their message was clear: real progress demands a dual approach—raising awareness through education and enacting the “right” regulations that are unified across ASEAN.
The two CEOs took the stage for a panel discussion titled “Sustainability in Hospitality and Mobility”, emphasizing how environmental responsibility in their respective industries is no longer optional—it’s essential.
Panote underscored the collective responsibility in tackling the climate crisis. “Everyone contributes to environmental impact—through everyday life or business activity. True sustainability in business must be built on ESG principles—Environment, Social, and Governance. We cannot exhaust the resources of future generations for today’s convenience,” he said.
He pointed out that the hospitality sector is currently responsible for about 40% of global environmental impact, making sustainability a priority issue for all stakeholders in the industry.
“When it comes to Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions—those within our direct control—we can implement change internally. But to address Scope 3 emissions across the entire supply chain, we need collaboration. Every party must commit to the same sustainability goals,” Panote emphasized.
Tony Fernandes echoed the need for broader engagement—not just at the corporate level but across society. “To truly drive sustainable development, we must educate people about the environmental impact of human activity and the importance of each sustainability initiative—big or small.”
He explained that many businesses allocate part of their revenue to fund environmental projects. Consumers need to understand that when they purchase a product or service, a portion of their payment supports those sustainability efforts. That understanding fosters societal buy-in and encourages greater consumer support for environmentally responsible business models.
“I’m ready to increase investment in sustainability efforts. Education and public awareness on environmental issues are absolutely essential,” Tony stated firmly.
He also addressed a critical challenge: inconsistent and overly rigid regulations that do not fit the ASEAN context. “Governments often rely on advice from foreign consultants who lack regional insight. Each country has different aviation standards, creating operational difficulties for multinational companies,” he said.
He cited jet fuel standards as an example—arguing that instead of tightening fuel regulations, governments should focus on optimizing air traffic management, which would be far more impactful. “Aircraft that have to circle repeatedly before landing or taking off consume more fuel and generate more pollution. Efficient airspace management is the real game-changer.”
“Regulations should drive actual change—not disrupt supply chains or force businesses to shut down. We need policy frameworks that enable progress, not hinder it. All of us must be part of the solution,” Tony concluded.
Because sustainability is everyone’s responsibility, join the movement and help build a better world at the Sustainability Expo (SX2024) — now through October 6, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC).
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