Are there Apple recommended malware scan apps available with proven track record?

The built-in anti-malware (XProtect, XProtect Remediator, Gatekeeper, the App Store, system integrity protection and the signed system volume, etc) works as well or better than the add-ons, and it’s enabled and operating by default.

Too much of the add-on anti-malware is increasingly becoming indistinguishable from actual malware. Somewhat ironically, the built-in anti-malware has kept various add-on anti-malware apps from clobbering parts of macOS, too.

Most of what malware problems are around now involve phishing, or adware or coupon apps or other problematic apps that users deliberately install (including anti-malware), or involves cracked apps that were loaded by bypassing security.

Backups are a key part of security as well, including rotating and disconnected and off-site backups when the data is sufficiently valuable.

Related: Effective defenses against malware and other threats - Apple Community

The free Malwarebytes application (subscription available but not necessary) has been the de facto recommendation for years by fellow users in these communities. You should not use anything else.

The macOS operating system (not written by Microsoft) already has advanced security protections.

Apple Platform Security - Apple Support