The palm oil sector has been linked to a number of environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks. As one of the biggest exporters of crude palm oil, Malaysia must take measures to meet the demand for sustainable agriculture practices. Therefore, investigating the oil palm plantation sector, would be a valuable analysis. This study aims to explore the ESG practices undertaken by small oil palm estates, and the challenges they have to face while implementing the ESG practices. This study conducted in-depth interviews with staffs in management level of small oil palm estates in the state of Johor, Malaysia. The results indicate that small oil palm estates undertake several ESG practices in their management and operation for the purpose of sustainability certification. However, participants are constrained by several factors such as lack of financial resources and managerial aspect.