Exploring environmental, social and governance (ESG) in the halal industry in Brunei

Abstract

This article aims to explore the extent, approaches and challenges of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles’ incorporation into the halal industry with Brunei Darussalam as the case study. This is based on multiple factors, especially economic diversification. A qualitative approach with a case study analysis was employed, utilising solely library data on ESG and observational insights on Brunei. As a result, this study finds that it is possible to incorporate ESG within Brunei's halal industry. It comes with challenges such as low purchasing power due to the small population, unemployment issues, and perceptions of ESG centred around developed countries. Coupled with limited data, the solutions to the challenges are unknown. Thus, collaborative efforts from all stakeholders are required. Addressing these challenges could enable Brunei to align its halal industry with ESG principles for realising Wawasan Brunei 2035.