Mediating Role of Board Gender Diversity between ESGDAnd Firm Performance: Developing A ConceptualA Framework for Malaysia

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to present a conceptual framework for merging ‎environmental, social, and governance disclosure (ESGD), company performance, and board ‎gender diversity (BGD) practices within the Malaysian corporate context.‎ Design/methodology/approach – This method involves conducting a literature review and developing a framework to investigate the relationship between ESGD and firm performance among Malaysian firms. Furthermore, BGD may have a role in mediating this link.‎ Findings: The framework integrates environmental, social, and governance disclosures with ‎firm performance, highlighting the mediating function of board gender diversity and being ‎hypothesis-driven. ‎ Research limitations/implications: This conceptual framework provides a foundation for ‎future empirical research and provides insights to Malaysian regulators, board members, ‎academics, and investors aiming to reconcile sustainable practices with financial success. They ‎underscore the significance of board efficacy and gender diversity in executing sustainable ‎policies. ‎ Originality/value: The literature has seen a paradigm shift highlighting the significance of ‎ESGD and BGD in evaluating firm performance. This paper provides a framework for ESGD ‎via a review of the available literature and highlights the importance of BGD‎.