'In today’s economy, no company can fend itself off from becoming a target of activist investors – whether they are large or small, underperforming or a market leader.'

Historically, major institutional investors have been focusing purely on financial strategies plus performance and have kept a low profile in governance. This is no longer the case as a new generation of activist shareholders is on the rise – those that are beginning to flex their muscles on deeper issues beyond numbers.

Through the list of governance and sustainability principles, companies are now being monitored on board and executive compensation, appointment of independent directors, the formation of board committees, CEO succession initiatives and the appointment of non-executive chairs. As a matter of fact, smaller companies are now increasingly facing scrutiny on the issue of board remuneration

Whilst the views of these shareholder activists are becoming increasingly dominant, how do we ensure that there is a balance on expectations and deliverables by the board of directors, and avoid the use of shareholder voices as a tool in squeezing short-term financial gains at the expense of long term development and profit?

Registration fee is RM250 plus SST for non-members and complimentary for ICDM members. (Subject to membership terms and conditions)