Temasek chief urges businesses to prioritise shared value over short-term gains

Speaking at the announcement of this year's award recipients, Teo emphasised that long-term business success is best achieved by creating value for multiple stakeholders rather than pursuing aggressive profit extraction strategies.

"The most successful companies don't simply squeeze every last cent from their operations," Teo said. "Instead, they focus on building a bigger pie alongside their partners, creating mutual benefits that sustain growth over decades."

The philosophy reflects Temasek's own investment approach, which balances financial returns with broader environmental, social and governance considerations. The holdings company has increasingly incorporated sustainability metrics into its portfolio management and stakeholder engagement strategies.

Temasek's recognition programme highlights businesses that have demonstrated commitment to responsible growth and community impact. The award winners were selected based on criteria including innovation, governance standards, and contributions to regional economic development.

The remarks underscore a broader shift among major institutional investors in Asia towards longer-term value creation models that account for stakeholder wellbeing alongside shareholder returns.