Sustainability Reporting and Board Diversity in Malaysia

Abstract

This study examines the extent and quality of Sustainability Reporting among Malaysian listed companies after the amendment of listing requirement in October 2015. In addition the study also examines the impact of corporate governance element, which is board diversity on Sustainability Reporting. This study uses content analysis method and independent t-test to accomplish the objectives. The extent and quality of SR among Malaysian listed companies are still low. In addition, it also found that companies that have female-gender board member have significant impact on their SR but not for age and ethnic diversity. Female directors have different way of perceptions, thinking and ideas that could impact companies' sustainability initiatives and reporting. The study contributes to the literature of corporate governance-sustainability by focusing specifically the impact of board diversity on SR.