After AIA Singapore won Bronze for Asia’s Best Sustainability Report (First Time) at the 11th Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards (ASRA), Chief Executive Officer Wong Sze Keed reflects on what the recognition means for leadership and accountability. In this exclusive interview, she explains why sustainability reporting is “the mark of visionary business leadership”, how embedding ESG into strategy builds trust and resilience, and why responsible leadership in this decade must be guided by transparency, empathy and long-term thinking.
Congratulations on your company’s success at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards. What does this achievement signify from a leadership perspective?
We are honoured by this recognition, which affirms the dedication and integrity behind our inaugural sustainability report. Our approach is grounded in accountability and long-term thinking – ensuring that our business decisions reflect more than financial outcomes , also championing the wellbeing of our customers, employees and communities. This milestone reinforces our commitment to building a resilient organisation that delivers meaningful impact, staying true to our purpose of helping people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.
How does sustainability fit within your overall business strategy and long-term value-creation goals?
At AIA Singapore, sustainability is not just a strategic priority— it is a promise to our stakeholders and a catalyst for meaningful growth. By weaving sustainability into the fabric of our business, we build trust with our customers, spark continuous innovation across our products and services, and uphold the highest standards of integrity and care in everything we do. We are guided by purpose to help people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives as we focus on delivering value our stakeholders through our efforts across five ESG strategic pillars, as defined in ESG strategy. Our commitment to health and wellness goes beyond individual benefit; it strengthens the resilience of our society and fuels a thriving economy. This helps to create long-term value and inspires us to shape a future where people and communities can flourish together as well as for generations to come.
What role do you personally play in setting and steering the sustainability agenda within the company?
I am committed to championing sustainability as a defining leadership priority—embedding sustainability considerations into our decision-making and organisational culture. I view my role as both a catalyst and a steward, inspiring our teams to push boundaries in innovation, while actively listening to ensure every voice is heard. The journey toward sustainability begins with each of us—through the choices we make daily, the care we extend to one another, and the responsibility we take in managing our resources wisely. By coming together with this shared purpose, we can shape a future that is not only brighter for our company, but for our communities and next generations.
Many CEOs now see sustainability as a competitive advantage. How has it shaped innovation, market growth, or stakeholder trust for your organisation?
Sustainability is at the heart of what sets us apart—it is our purpose-driven catalyst, which inspires innovation across everything we do. It enables us to develop innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers that empower them to embrace healthier lifestyles and secure financial wellbeing for themselves and across generations. More than just a strategy, sustainability forges enduring trust with all our stakeholders; customers, employees, partners and our communities are drawn to organisations that act with integrity and responsibility. This trust is not only our greatest asset, it is also the foundation for sustainable long-term growth and a legacy of positive impact.
Why do you believe sustainability reporting is vital for corporate leadership today?
Leadership begins with transparency. By embracing sustainability reporting, it helps us to hold ourselves accountable — not just for financial results, but for the broader impact we make on people and the planet. It builds credibility, guides better decisions, and shows that we are serious about progress. In today’s environment, sustainability reporting is no longer optional—it’s the mark of visionary business leadership, inspiring others to join us in shaping a future where integrity and impact go hand in hand.
How do you ensure that sustainability performance remains a board-level priority amid other business pressures?
Sustainability is embedded in our governance. Our sustainability objectives are aligned with our Purpose and overseen by the Board and its committees. This ensures accountability and keeps sustainability central to our strategic decisions.
Could you share an example of a major decision or investment where sustainability considerations played a decisive role?
One example is our commitment to create a workplace where health and sustainability are at the forefront. Embedding sustainability responsibility and wellness initiatives into our daily operations, we enhance engagement and productivity and cultivate an environment where our people can truly flourish. When our employees thrive, so does our organisation, empowering us to deliver lasting impact for our customers, communities, and the world around.
As regulatory frameworks such as ISSB gain traction, how do you view their impact on Asian businesses?
The shift toward more structured sustainability expectations is positive. It encourages businesses to think beyond short-term performance and build more resilient models for growth. It is also an opportunity to lead by example — combining our strong sense of community with responsible, forward-looking business practices.
Looking ahead, what are your top three sustainability priorities for the next three years?
Our commitment begins with championing health and wellness as a cornerstone of sustainability—empowering every individual and family to embrace vibrant, healthier lives.
Next, we are elevating our operational sustainability by relentlessly pursuing greener practices across our workplaces, setting greater heights for environmentally responsible operations. Such as, the green wall hydroponic was installed at our AIA Tower in 2025. Every two weeks, our employees can participate in harvesting sessions and take home some of the delicious bounty. The smiles at our first harvest speak for themselves!
Finally, we are igniting a movement—deepening our engagement and inspiring employees, partners, and customers to unite with us in shaping a more sustainable future, together. By working collectively, we transform aspirations into lasting impact and create a legacy of positive change for generations to come.
What message would you like to send to your peers and the wider business community about responsible leadership in this decisive decade for climate and sustainability?
Leadership in this decade is about courage and conviction. Leaders rise by guiding with empathy and a profound sense of shared responsibility for the legacy we leave behind. The future of business is inseparable from the wellbeing of people and the planet —by taking action today, we can build a legacy of hope, health, and sustainability—one that will inspire and uplift generations to come.
