MSSPs to help Singapore SMBs meet new 2025 ESG standards

Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) are positioned to help Singapore's small and medium-sized businesses meet the new Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) regulations set for 2025.

Singapore's new regulatory environment, shaped by the Climate Reporting and Assurance Roadmap, introduces updated expectations for climate-related disclosures. Initially targeting listed and large non-listed companies, these requirements are now being extended down the value chain to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBS).

Nick Marrett, Group Chief Executive Officer of Bruce Security Asia, stated in an article, "Under the new Climate Reporting and Assurance Roadmap, companies are being called to act with discipline, purpose, and accountability—to contribute to a better world while still growing their businesses."

According to Marrett, "ESG compliance says a company is committed to doing well by doing good. It's not just about being nice—it's about building resilience, earning trust, and unlocking real commercial advantage. It's how businesses become more attractive to investors, preferred by customers, and respected in their industry."

Climate-related reporting expectations present new challenges in several key areas. Supply chain accountability is notably increased, with large corporations now requesting detailed ESG data from suppliers. Marrett explained, "Nearly 100% of large companies require ESG data from their suppliers, putting pressure on SMBs to align or risk losing business."

Further, ESG credentials are becoming a key factor in investment decision-making. "Green finance readiness is gaining traction, with 89% of investors factoring ESG performance into their funding decisions," Marrett said. Future-proofing operations to remain competitive in the regulatory landscape is also underscored.

Marrett noted that many SMBs face the challenge of complying with these new requirements without the dedicated compliance teams or tools that larger organisations often possess. "Just like Clark Kent had to learn to fly, SMBs must now learn to manage carbon disclosures, cybersecurity risks, and governance standards—often without large compliance teams or fancy software," he said.

MSSPs, traditionally known for their cybersecurity expertise, are adapting their services to support clients' ESG aspirations. Marrett described the expanded role of MSSPs: "On the environmental front, MSSPs support sustainability by building secure systems that track, manage, and report key metrics. From deploying cloud-native infrastructure for greener IT to automating emissions and energy data for upstream reporting, they turn ESG compliance into a streamlined, scalable process."

He added, "From a governance perspective, MSSPs enhance trust and compliance by fortifying cybersecurity practices. They provide regular audits and ensure policy alignment, deliver proactive threat monitoring and incident response, and conduct secure vendor risk assessments. These capabilities don't just help avoid regulatory penalties—they also build the credibility needed to earn trust from partners, investors, and regulators."

MSSPs also address the social aspect of ESG by supporting organisations in the protection of people and data. "They provide cybersecurity awareness training for employees, enable secure digital workplaces for hybrid teams, and promote ethical tech use with tools for monitoring and clear data usage policies. With MSSP support, SMBs can demonstrate that they take both human and digital responsibilities seriously," Marrett said.

ESG integration, according to Marrett, supports business growth in several dimensions. "It's time to ditch the myth that ESG is a cost centre. When done right, ESG becomes a competitive edge. SMBs that prioritise ESG can become preferred suppliers in environmentally and socially conscious supply chains. They gain easier access to capital through sustainability-linked loans and grants. And they improve employee retention, especially among younger talent that prioritises working for mission-driven employers."

He emphasised that, "MSSPs don't just help you comply—they help you get there efficiently, credibly, and with confidence. Cyber resilience and ethical data stewardship are now integral to ESG storytelling and brand value."

Marrett recommended that when choosing an MSSP, businesses should seek partners with the relevant sector know-how, transparency, and scalability. "Onboarding an MSSP isn't just about cybersecurity—it's about choosing a partner who understands your ESG obligations and growth goals. Start by identifying key gaps, such as emissions tracking, employee training, or risk management. Then, select an MSSP with experience in those areas. A strong partner will assess your current posture, align controls to ESG priorities, and build a roadmap for compliance and resilience. Look for transparency, scalability, and sector know-how—because the right MSSP helps you stay secure, accountable, and future-ready."

Summing up the evolving role of MSSPs in supporting ESG compliance, Marrett said, "In the 2025 landscape, MSSPs are more than IT service providers. They're the strategic sidekicks helping SMBs become stronger, smarter, and more sustainable."