Malaysia Retailer|Vol 6|No 4|2018|Ancubic

Vol 6 No 4 2018

BRINGING WORLD-CLASS, ECO FRIENDLY STANDARDS TO LOCAL PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT

MRCA 26th Anniversary Dinner

Sparkling Evening of Splendour & Glamour

WM RM9 / EM RM11

Dato’ Dato’ Low Low Boon Boon An, An, Founder Founder of of Ancubic Ancubic Group Group of of Companies Companies and and Managing Managing Director Director of of Concepts Concepts Group Group of of Companies Companies

CONTENTS / VOL. 6 NO. 4

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MRCA’s Jewel Splendour

DEPARTMENTS 44 Sharing Deepavali Festive Cheer

EVENTS 45 MRCA In The News

ON THE COVER

Dato’ Low Boon An, Founder of Ancubic Group of Companies and Managing Director of Concepts Group of Companies Photography: Song @ Picture This

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COVER STORY 4 Bringing World-Class, Eco Friendly Standards To Local Property Development

Dato’ Low Boon An, founder of the Ancubic Group of Companies is passionate about bringing world-class standards and aesthetics to local property development.

FEATURES 6 MRCA’s Jewel Splendour 12 World Famous Strategist At MRCA CEO Night 14 Allianz Malaysia Teams Up With 11street To Offer Better Protection 15 Making It Easier for SMEs To Adopt e-payments 16 Bold Diseno 18 Boost Partners With UnionPay International To Expand Footprint Globally 20 Capitalising Your Intangible Value 21 KK Super Mart Goes Cashless With WeChat Pay 22 LazMall, A One-Stop Shopping Destination In SEA

23 Metroport, Malaysia’s Preferred

Logistics Provider Anywhere In The World 24 TEC for Higher Productivity In Retail And F&B Sectors 25 Double Win For Nippon Paint Malaysia 27 Entrepreneurial Virtuosity 28 World’s Largest Manufacturer Of Gloves 30 UMR Strategic Gets You The Right People 32 unifi’s SME Community Connects To The Heart Of Your Business 34 ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub 35 Coca Cola’s Revolution 36 Inculcating A Positive Attitude At The Workplace 38 Clean & Green Route To Success 39 Sunway Malls Wins Best In Asia Award 40 Datuk Seri Raymond Liew, Man With A Charitable Heart 42 Young & Sassy Fashion World Of YFS

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Bringing World-Class, Eco Friendly Standards To Local Property Development ato’ Low Boon An completed his studies at the Southern California University and the prestigious Beijing Tsing Hua University in China. He went on to work in the construction industry in Tokyo, Japan. There, he learned how to build world class property developments that are aesthetically designed. Upon his return to Malaysia Dato’ Low was determined to make his mark in the local property industry by providing Malaysians with the same world class properties that he saw in Japan and other advanced countries.

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Dato’ Low Boon An, the founder of the Ancubic Group of Companies is passionate about bringing worldclass standards and aesthetics to local property development. The company’s crown jewel, Cubic Botanical @ South Bangsar (Residensi Rimba), which is set to be a green landmark of the area, reflects these ideals.

Photography Song @ Picture This

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ANCUBIC’S REAL ESTATE BUSINESS The company’s vision is to develop highperforming team with professional skills and to provide society with high quality, energy saving and environmentally friendly homes. It also aims to be one of the leading property developers in Malaysia through its strong competitive advantage, sustainable business growth and expanding cross regional development projects.

The company aims to provide customers with value-added services and to establish a solid network of global partners. It will also continuously provide innovative, high quality products and value added services.

THE NEW JEWEL: CUBIC BOTANICAL @ SOUTH BANGSAR The group’s biggest and most prestigious project to date is Cubic Botanical @ South Bangsar, which is tagged as a “masterpiece of man, beautified by nature.” Phase one of the project, which is nestled in a 3 acre freehold site in the heart of South Bangsar, will have 1,161 units of serviced suites with retail units.

In property development it’s all about location. Cubic Botanical is located beside the new NPE interchange

Our target markets are investors, white collar workers working nearby and companies which employ lots of expatriate workers.”

- Dato’ Low Boon An companies,” explains Dato’ Low. “Our target markets are investors, white collar workers and expatriate buyers. This is an area whose population of young working professionals will increase, thanks to international companies like Ali Baba having its HQ here.”

Cubic Botanical is very affordably priced considering its prime location and facilities. “Our pricing is very attractive,” says Dato’ Low. “It’s 20% lower than the market price for this area.” The project is expected to be completed in 2022 and the response from the public

has been very good. So far, more than 8000 people have shown interest in the project. “There is a demand for such serviced suites in the area,” says Dato’ Low. “We have had a very good response from young buyers who are mainly working in the IT industry nearby and from many expatriate customers from countries such as Korea, Japan, Taiwan, China etc.”

The rental market for Cubic Botanical is very attractive. “The rental will go up,” says Dato’ Low. “Four years after the completion of the project, one can expect to get 8% on rental yield.

The company supports the Government’s call to help first time home buyers by offering special discounts. “For first time buyers and single mothers, we will subsidize RM7000 for the stamp duty on MOT,” says Dato’ Low. This offer is for those who register for the property from 1st December 2019 onwards.

With all these plus points about this project, which makes the Ancubic Group optimistic that when the actual launch takes place, the number of people interested in Cubic Botanical @ South Bangsar will have the biggest number yet for any of its projects. Registration for the property is open from 1st December 2019.

Dato’ Low is looking forward to the future and is confident that the property market in Malaysia will get brighter.

He intends to expand his business and investment so that they would create new job opportunities and boost the Malaysian economy.

For more information on Cubic Botanical, call 03-5031 2371 or visit the showroom at Unit 21-06, Tower B, Vertical Business Suite, Jalan Kerinchi 59200 Kuala Lumpur. The website is at www.cubicbotanical.com

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beside the Bangsar toll (NPE toll from Pantai Dalam), the site of many new developments in Bangsar South. It is also surrounded by greenery such as the Gasing Hill and Taman Rimba Hill, a 200-acre forest reserve.

It’s the ideal place to live, especially for those working in the city as it is centrally located. Cubic Botanical is easily accessible via Federal Highway, Jalan Pantai Dalam, Jalan Kerinchi Link and the NPE. There’s a direct connection from the development to the NPE which will enable the residents to easily access the major roads round around the city.

This project features a world-class rainwater harvesting system with piping system that is built to last. The washrooms and kitchen are equipped with anti-cockroach floor trap system.

The windows facing west elevation are of low emissivity glasses and the bathroom floorings are anti-slip and odourless paints are used for the interior walls so there are no obnoxious chemical smells. Buyers of units that are 800 sq feet and above get two car parks free!

Six different zones are built in the area to cater for various needs. There’s the Aqua Paradise Zone, which has water features. The Bird of Paradise Zone is a landscape garden for outdoor activities and fitness enthusiast; Forest Zone offers peace and tranquility; Camellia Zone with features such as reflexology path is all about wellness; the Sky Zone is for entertainment and fun while the Private Zone is for kids and family.

“Almost 50% of the companies that are clustered in Bangsar South, which is a MSC designated area, are IT

Jewel Splendour

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MRCA’s

The Malaysia Retail Chain Association celebrates its 26 years of success and achievements at its anniversary dinner at the St Regis Kuala Lumpur on 26 October 2018.

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n keeping with the gala event’s theme, Jewel Splendour, about 800 guests comprising entrepreneurs, chief executive officers and senior corporate management graced the occasion dressed in their fineries.

The sparkling evening of style, splendour and glamour coupled with an entertaining and inspiring program enthralled the members and guests.

The guest of honour was Mohamad Hatta Ramli, Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development of Malaysia.

MRCA President, Datuk Seri Garry Chua, in his opening remarks said that the association has grown from its humble beginnings led by visionary retail leaders to become a progressive and highly influential force in the retail industry that is proudly Malaysian. “It provides a platform for members to share their knowledge and experiences, thus supporting one another and the growth of the industry.”

He added that MRCA has successfully brought together over 470 members who have expanded locally and internationally and are competing with international brands. “Our remarkable members are ever prepared to compete with the international players,” he said. With such a strong organisation

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of leading franchise and retail store operators covering more than 30,000 outlets throughout Malaysia, these members help provide over 150,000 job opportunities to Malaysians across the country. The President’s theme ‘Enriching Members for the Future’, sets the landscape for members to grow and be rewarded under the MRCA umbrella.

MRCA members who had joined the association for more than 10 years were

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also honoured during the event. There was also a live band performance and many exciting lucky draw prizes up for grabs.

Organising Chairpersons of this event were Dato’ Winnie Lim, MRCA Deputy Treasurer General and Founder of Solution Group and Sharan Valiram, MRCA Council member and Executive Director of Valiram Group. Both of them worked hard to make the anniversary an

unforgettable event for all members and esteemed guests.

Special mention was given to express appreciation to the Main Event Sponsors, Mah Sing Group and IGB REIT / Southkey Megamall Sdn Bhd as well as MRCA Corporate Patrons, Maxis Berhad, Fusionex Sdn Bhd, Mastercard Asia Pacific Pte Ltd and Quill Automobiles Sdn Bhd and to sponsors who had given the encouragement and support during the gala dinner.

MRCA continuously organises many exciting activities such as charity fundraising through its charity run, charity golf, visitations to charitable organisations; business trips for overseas collaborations; annual banquet events; monthly meetings; marketing and promotional initiatives via the media as well as its quarterly magazine, among others.

It is committed to being an excellent avenue for retail businesses to network and exchange ideas, share resources and to promote the healthy expansion of the retail industry in Malaysia and abroad. It is also a highly supportive environment to build its business and pool ideas, experiences and efforts together by placing its members first.

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SPONSORS PLATINUM

Tropicana Corporation Berhad

GOLD

Launching of Who Is Who MRCA Directory 2018 by YB Deputy Entrepreneur Minister Mohamad Hatta Ramli.

The Store Corporation Berhad Top Glove Sdn Bhd Silver Sponsors Allianz General Insurance Company (M) Bhd Annkang Wellness Sdn Bhd Axiata Digital eCode Sdn Bhd (Boost Pay) Damansara Uptown Retail Centre Sdn Bhd (The Starling) Gintell (M) Sdn Bhd Hong Leong Assurance Bhd MSIG Insurance (Malaysia) Berhad Optimax Eye Specialist Centre Sdn Bhd Poh Kong Holdings Bhd Sky Rewards Sdn Bhd Sunsuria Bhd TM One UMR Strategic Sdn Bhd Valiram Group Vinsoon Shoe Trading Sdn Bhd (Hypershoe) YYC GST Consultants Sdn Bhd

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World Famous Strategist at MRCA CEO Night This year’s MRCA CEO Night was made more special with the presence of world famous strategist and consultant David Morey. ne of the most looked forward event in the MRCA calendar is its annual CEO Night where the most acclaimed Malaysian CEOs are invited to give a talk in front of business leaders from MRCA. Among the famous Malaysian CEOs who have given talks in the past in this prestigious event are Tan Sri Dato’ AK Nathan, Dato’ Idris Jala, Tan Sri Vincent Tan and Tan Sri Dr Lim Wee Chai.

For this year’s 11th Edition of MRCA CEO Night, held on 6th September, the organisers outdid themselves when they secured one of the most brilliant business thinker and strategist, David Morey. Morey is a legend in the business world for his brilliant insights and ability

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to turn around businesses with his innovative ideas and strategies.

Morey, who is the Founder and Chairman of DMG Global, is also an award-winning author whose books have made it to the top of the bestseller list. Some of his well-known books are The Underdog Advantage, The Leadership Campaign, and Creating Business Magic: How the Power of Magic Can Inspire, Innovate and Revolutionize Your Business.

His clients include the who’s who of Fortune 500 leaders. He has also advised five Nobel Peace Prize winners. But more impressive still is his involvement as a consultant and adviser to 18 world leaders’ winning Presidential and Prime Ministerial campaigns.

These include the historic Presidential campaign of US President Barack Obama, Russian President Boris Yeltsin, four South Korean Presidents and two Philippine Presidents: Corazon Aquino and Rodrigo Duterte. He was also the foreign policy advisor to US Senator John Glenn.

Morey’s corporate clients include the world’s leading corporations, including Apple, GE, Verizon, Pepsi, Mars, KPMG, McDonald’s, Microsoft, News Corp., Nike, P&G, Disney, Visa, The Coca-Cola Company, Pepsi, LinkedIn TPG, American Express, NBC, Samsung, Deloitte, Sime Darby and many others.

This year’s CEO Night was themed ‘An Illuminating Evening With David Morey’. The dinner was a huge success

as all the tables were sold out and the ballroom filled with guests that included an exclusive group of 400 VIP attendees from various retailing, F&B, shopping malls and e-commerce industries.

Most of the attendees were C-level executives. Adding more excitement to the event was the guest of honour for the night, Lim Guan Eng, the Minister of Finance.

The evening started off with the welcoming speech by Datuk Seri Garry Chua, the President of MRCA. He said that the MRCA was very privileged and thankful to be able to secure Morey as one of the keynote speakers of the MRCA CEO Night. He felt that it was timely “that David is able to share his valuable insights and experience on

the transformation of the Malaysian digitalisation and retail economy” as smart cities were emerging fast and in the process were introducing new practices and services which have a huge impact on the policy, planning and development and operation of cities.

He expressed confidence that all those present will be inspired by the success stories of Morey’s clients and in the process learn some valuable lessons from Morey’s advice.

The Finance Minister, in his speech, touched on the importance of the retail industry in driving Malaysia’s economy. He also congratulated MRCA on being able to secure Morey as the speaker for the night as this showed the organisation’s excellent reputation,

networking and influence in being able to attract world-class speakers to its event.

Finally, it was the moment everyone had waited for: David Morey on stage! His talk was titled ‘Empowering Innovations for a Winning Transformation.’ He shared his thoughts on strategic planning, campaign management, issue development, government relations, law, polling, media relations and social media and how these elements could be used in re-building brands, turning around businesses and restoring reputations.

Everyone enjoyed Morey’s talk.

As the guests all departed the hall, many were already looking forward to attending next year’s MRCA CEO Night!

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Allianz Malaysia Join Forces with 11street to Offer Malaysians Better Protection The partnership to make insurance more accessible and affordable.

Shoppers will also have the option of purchasing three different insurance products that will provide coverage for individuals, homes and cars. llianz Malaysia is embarking their families, as well as to reduce the coverage is essential in the long-term on an exciting new protection gap amongst the public.” and as the 25-35-year-old customers are partnership with one of the The current national insurance our largest demographic, we’ve worked leading online marketplaces penetration rate remains at around 56%, closely with Allianz to curate these in Malaysia, 11street. This collaboration with only about 32% of Malaysians three products that cater specifically aims to provide Malaysians protection owning more than one policy, according to the needs of working adults. With that caters to varying needs through to the Life Insurance Association of more and more people depending on the insurance products that are now Malaysia (The Edge Markets report 1st online shopping in their daily lives, we available on the online shopping July 2018). With Bank Negara Malaysia’s feel that this is an important addition platform. target of 75% insurance penetration to our already diverse range of product Both Allianz and 11street are by the year 2020, (NST, 30th Oct 2017) offerings.” making purchasing insurance even and the potential to exceed 100%, this Under the Allianz Personal Accident more convenient and seamless by partnership between Allianz and 11street Insurance product, customers will offering three comprehensive products is a move towards ensuring that every be entitled to double indemnity in that suits the customer’s needs.

Malaysian is protected. the event of a death or permanent These products are Personal Accident Henry Ho, General Manager of disablement as well as cashless hospital Insurance which prepares people for Business Development & Partnership admission and discharge. The plan also the unexpected at all times, Roadside of 11street said: “This is definitely a covers medical expenses and snatch Assistance Program which provides milestone for 11street. We are a holistic thefts. drivers with a comprehensive scope of platform that’s constantly looking for Customers who purchase Allianz protection during a car breakdown and ways to add value and enrich the lives Roadside Assistance Program, will Smart Home Cover which allows us the of our customers. Purchasing insurance have access to 24-hour unlimited comfort of knowing that towing distance and car our homes are protected. assistance, including Michael Fong, Head minor roadside repairs of Digital Partnerships as well as a wide choice and Innovation of Allianz of authorised panel General Insurance workshops to ensure the Company (Malaysia) most convenient location Berhad said that the for their car repair needs. collaboration is not Those insured under only aimed at raising this program will also awareness about the be granted a free car importance of insurance replacement for 5 days. coverage, but also Allianz Smart Home towards making it more Cover allows customers accessible and affordable to save on premiums with to the general public. a tailor-made package “By exploring this according to their needs new approach to selling and wants. They have insurance plans, we the option to either just hope to encourage more cover the contents of their Malaysians to take this homes or extend to cover crucial step towards home fix as well – all at an L-R: Henry Ho, General Manager of Business Development & Partnership of 11street protecting themselves and & Michael Fong, Head of Digital Partnerships and Innovation of Allianz. affordable price.

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Making It Easier For SMEs To Adopt e-payments

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AmBank and Digi partnership to lower barriers that will enable 10,000 terminals to accept Digi’s e-payment solution in the next 12 months. mBank (M) Berhad (AmBank) continues to step up its digital strategy by opening up its wide merchant network to accept Digi’s vcash QR code as an additional payment service.

This ‘e-payment partnership’ with Digi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd (Digi) takes on a two-pronged approach.

AmBank’s merchant point-of-sale terminals will be enabled to accept vcash QR code transactions. Vcash users can pay for their transactions via Digi’s vcash mobile app. vcash users only need to scan the QR code to pay.

Digi will be signing up small and mid-sized enterprise merchants under the Master Merchant programme with AmBank. This will translate to more merchants accepting vcash payments, while growing AmBank’s merchant base.

“This strategic tie-up with Digi complements our efforts in broadening our product offerings to existing merchants as well as new merchants, while staying relevant and competitive in the digital landscape. It is also part

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of our ongoing efforts to support Bank Negara Malaysia’s agenda to accelerate the country’s migration to electronic payments as we move towards becoming a cashless society,” said Dato’ Sulaiman Mohd Tahir, Group CEO of AmBank Group.

He added that in advancing eWallet payment technology, the bank is working on more strategic partnerships to offer wider acceptance to its customers.

AmBank will also be introducing eRemittance promotions for its customers to remit money to their children studying abroad at affordable fees. “As part of AmBank’s digital transformation journey, we are designing and implementing numerous new solutions with our customers in mind – to make their online banking experience with us much more convenient, value-added and seamless,” he said.

Digi’s CEO Albern Murty stated that teaming up with AmBank to roll out seamless payment experiences

on a smartphone via vcash and POS terminals will benefit end users with the convenience of paying with their smartphones, and offer more merchants the security of accepting e-payments.

“Our aim is to continue playing a key role in advocating and educating Malaysians on the ease and safety of going cashless by providing a simple, convenient solution – vcash – that works for everyone.”

The objective of this partnership is to drive growth for SMEs across different industry verticals - it works for any type of business regardless of its size. The partnership aims to enable 10,000 terminals in the next 12 months to accept Digi’s e-payment solution.

By doing so, Digi and AmBank are able to leverage on their respective fields of expertise and iterate upon existing offerings to provide an innovation that makes sense for SMEs from both a cost and growth perspective. Secondly, SMEs adopting these next generation payment terminals are able to future proof their business now, at no additional cost.

L-R: Praveen Rajan, Chief Digital Officer, Digi, Goh Mei Lee, Group Chief Transformation Officer, AmBank Group, Eugene Teh, Chief Business Officer, Digi, Dato’ Sulaiman Mohd Tahir, Group CEO, AmBank Group, Albern Murty, CEO, Digi, Datuk Iswaraan Suppiah, Group Chief Operations Officer, AmBank Group and Lenon Cheong, Head, Cards and Merchant Services, AmBank (M) Berhad.

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Bold Diseno Sdn Bhd

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This Sungai Buloh based company has, within a decade of its existence, earned itself a special place among its customers as a name to be trusted when it comes to custom fit-out of commercial retail units. old Diseno continues to grow within Malaysia and at the same time, spread its wings to other countries in Southeast Asia thanks to its impeccable service and finished products.

Bold Diseno Sdn Bhd was established in 2008 and quickly established itself as a trusted, customer-focused company. It specialises in the design and manufacture of fit-out furniture for the commercial retail segment.

It works closely with clients to create high quality, functional and visually stunning furniture for retail outlets, departmental stores, boutiques, kiosks and the like. The company has a full complement of specialists, which makes its team fully equipped to handle anything ranging from the manufacture of key pieces of furniture, right up to the complete conception and fit-out of an entire unit.

Its superior workmanship, attention to details and ability to finish a job on time and on budget has seen the company quickly win clients from all over Malaysia and across Southeast Asia as well.

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BOLD DISENO’S USP Bold Diseno has always put its customers front and centre. One of the company’s ethos is not to stop working until its client is satisfied. It ensures that it delivers everything that was promised, on prompt delivery and on budget to the client. Experienced in-house designers

can propose new ideas to clients in case clients don’t know what they want.

The company is able to precision manufacture and install everything according to final design thanks to its use of advance and precision machinery for its woodworks. Bold Diseno is very professionally run: it uses the Good Manufacturing Practises 5S and the Lean Management approach. The company also has the distinction of completing the Toyota Production System (TPS) in the Hirayama Kaizen Training Course.

Bold Diseno is also a member of the Malaysia Furniture Council (MFC), it’s a CIBD registered company and has a furniture export license under the Malaysia Timber Industry Board (MTIB).

With all these good practices in place, it isn’t surprising to learn that the company’s growth rate has exceeded 40 percent yearly since its inception. It is also able to retain a very large and loyal customer base and add new ones

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every time. Most of its clients come via personal recommendation from others.

The clients also stay on for years as they are very happy with the service and come back repeatedly to the company because the clients trust the company to deliver above and beyond what they expect. For example, the company has completed over 100 jobs just for one client alone!

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES It spent heavily on expanding the manpower in the company and finding new talent and investing in new technology which would make work faster, more accurate and efficient. Tried and tested management practices such as Good Manufacturing Practices 5S and Lean Management were introduced in order to create a healthy company culture.

The company has embraced e-commerce which allowed it to expand to cross-border business by publicising its achievements on its website and in the process opened up to new businesses from the Southeast Asian region.

THE SECRET OF ITS SUCCESS MFC

Bold Diseno

CIDB

Lean

MTiB Export License

Bold Diseno is able to carve out its unique position in the market because it puts its customers first with its professional service. The mantra in the company with regards to clients is, “Always think from the point of view of a client.”

It understands that the sustainable growth of the company is vital for its future. It has invested heavily in terms of strengthening the skills of its workers and with its continuous efforts to always learn new ways of doing things and improving itself.

Bold Diseno Sdn Bhd Lot 2735, AL130C, Jalan Baru, Kg Baru Sungai Buloh, 47000 Selangor.

Email: sales@bolddiseno.com Website: www.bolddiseno.com Contact: 012-501 8468

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*Updated on February 2018

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Boost Partners with UnionPay International to Expand Footprint Globally Tie-up with global payment brand UnionPay International is in line with Boost’s expansion plans to expand its footprint nationwide as well as overseas. hristopher Tiffin, Chief Executive Officer of Boost, said that the partnership allows the company to create relevance to merchants and customers both inside and outside Malaysia. “This is another milestone in broadening Boost’s functionality and usability to provide a more rewarding experience for our partners and customers,” he said at the official signing ceremony recently of Boost and UnionPay International partnership.

Boost is a leading e-wallet application with over 2.7 million users with online and offline merchants located in over 30,000 touchpoints.

Acting as a virtual replacement for the physical wallet, Boost is designed to simplify the transactional process, ensuring an easy, fast and convenient payment process and overall more rewarding experience.

Christopher Tiffin added that as

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part of the partnership, the long term plans are to enable users to use the app to leverage on UnionPay’s offerings to transact globally and likewise, for tourists to transact in Malaysia.

Wenhui Yang, General Manager, UnionPay International Southeast Asia said the partnership with Boost will provide its customers a more convenient, secure and seamless way of paying.

“With our core values centred on sharing growth and win-win cooperation with partners and bringing fresh perspectives to the global payment industry, joining forces with Boost signifies a natural progression in our business as we shift towards digitising the worldwide nation.

This is also in line with our strategy to localise our business to better cater to the payment needs of Malaysian businesses and consumers,” he said.

As one of the fastest growing global payment brand in the world, UnionPay serves the world’s largest card

base of over 7 billion. Having formed partnerships with more than 1,800 institutions worldwide, UnionPay has enabled card acceptance in 170 countries and regions globally with issuance in 48 countries and regions.

Providing high quality, cost effective and secure cross-border payment services to the world’s largest cardholder base, UnionPay ensures convenient local services to a growing number of global UnionPay Cardholders and merchants.

Currently, there are over 7.5 million UnionPay QR Code (QRC) merchants globally, with UnionPay International announcing in May 2018 a massive roll out of EMV-compliant QRC terminals across different industries all over Malaysia.

Both Boost and UnionPay will also be jointly ramping up their marketing efforts in order to promote their services and further quicken their education and expansion plans.

L-R: UnionPay International Co. Ltd Products Department director Shuan Ghaidan, Wenhui Yang, Christopher Tiffin and Axiata Digital Services Chief Executive Officer Mohd Khairil Abdullah at the MoU signing ceremony.

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Capitalising Your Intangible Value Grow your organization’s value and potential globally through IPO.

stablished in 2013, GreenPro Capital is an integrated corporate advisory service provider involved in crossborder public listing, asset protection and trust services, financial review and wealth management.

In 2014, the company was listed on the OTCQB of OTC Market in the US and this year, it has successfully listed on the US Nasdaq under the ticker symbol of GRNQ. Currently, it was its head office in Hong Kong, and offices in China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and Thailand.

At its core, GreenPro has been assisting and supporting businesses and High-Net-Worth-Individuals (HNWIs) to capitalise their value on a global scale. Backed by strong resources, GreenPro aims to integrate Asia’s high potential companies in becoming a strong magnetic field to attract more professionals worldwide.

GreenPro founders, CK Lee and Gilbert Loke, who are experts in the financial industry, have a great understanding of value, capital and wealth that lead to the “GreenPro Value-Capital Trilogy”.

The trilogy can be briefly explained as: the creation of value by allocating resources efficiently and causing wealth appreciation strategically as a return

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to gain more right in the resources allocation.

One of GreenPro’s independent director, Dato’ Sri Dr How Kok Choong, who is also the global president of health and wellness company AGAPE Superior Living International Group, has been a strong supporter of GreenPro’s ValueCapital Trilogy.

Dato’ Sri Dr How listed AGAPE on the United States OTC market last year through Greenpro Capital. AGAPE’s exceptional performance couple with GreenPro’s professional services have seen AGAPE grow tremendously and will soon be uplifted to mainboard NYSE. Meanwhile, GreenPro has also shown support for China’s Belt and Road Initiative, assisting clients in wealth creation, wealth protection and wealth succession, with long term ambitions in building the “New Finance in New Asia” era.

When it comes to investment and collaboration with new partners, GreenPro has an eye on the asset-light industry, because it possesses numerous intangible values that are highly scalable and has great growth potential.

For those who are interested in crossborder listing, GreenPro has experience operating in the US market. The US has the world’s largest capital market and is

a great platform for companies to reflect their value and potential to the global investors.

So far, GreenPro has assisted more than 30 companies throughout the Asia Pacific region to successfully get listed in Hong Kong and the US. Many business people think that going public is only for companies with decent profits, little do they know that GreenPro managed to get itself listed without any profit on the OTC Market.

Our Comprehensive Range Of Services Include: 1. Corporate Advisory Cross-Border Listing (IPO); Company Formation; Company Secretarial; Accounting; Tax Planning and Compliance; Market Capitalization Management; Merger and Acquisition; Corporate restructuring 2. Venture Capital For Emerging Growth Businesses 3. Trustee Services Trust and Foundation Set Up; Asset Protection Planning; Wealth Management 4. GreenPro Global OBOR Fund Emphasize on Finance, I.T & Health Sectors 5. Credit Services 6. Wealth Network (GSN) Global Investment Community Our Qualification • Hong Kong Trust License • HK Insurance Broker License • HK SFC Type 9 License: Asset Management • HK SFC Type 4 License: Advising on Securities Trust or Company Service Provider License • CPA License • Hong Kong Money Lender’s License • GreenPro Global OBOR Fund SP • GreenPro Pension Retirement Plan To find out more, please contact: 03-2856 0574 / 018-224 2955 (CY or JR)

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KK Super Mart Goes Cashless With WeChat Pay Shoppers can now pay for goods the cashless and cardless way at all 337 KK Super Mart Convenience Chain Stores nationwide.

K Super Mart Convenience Chain Stores is making it easy for its customers to pay for goods the cashless way by being one of the first merchants to accept WeChat Pay in Malaysia. The e-wallet is incorporated into the WeChat app where users can make payments conveniently with their smartphones.

All Malaysian WeChat user wallets have been enabled since August.

WeChat Pay users will now be able to reload via online banking before shopping and paying at KK Super Mart.

Datuk Seri Dr KK Chai, Founder and

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Group Executive Chairman of KK Group of Companies, commended Tencent Holdings for bringing WeChat Pay to Malaysia.

Primary Industries Minister Teresa Kok, at the launch of WeChat Pay at KK Super Mart, said that WeChat Pay, being the largest E-wallet platform in China, now brings more convenience to Malaysians. She pointed out that that Malaysia, as a nation that prioritises technology such as Artificial Intelligence and Big Data, is now in a better position to become the e-commerce and logistics hub of Southeast Asia. E-wallet is

“I encourage Malaysians to use digital payments such as credit card, debit cards and online banking and E-wallets.” ~ Datuk Seri Dr KK Chai, founder and Group Executive Chairman of KK Group of Companies

expected to become one of the main methods of payment in Malaysia by 2021.

Datuk Seri Dr KK Chai hopes Malaysia propels towards a cashless society in order to minimise issues of fake notes, robbery and the hassle of changing coins.

“I encourage Malaysians to use digital payments such as credit card, debit cards and online banking and E-wallets.”

KK Super Mart began incorporating e-wallets into its system a year ago. KK Super Mart is collaborating with e-wallet platforms to provide more rewards and benefits for its customers.

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LazMall Set to Become Largest One-Stop Shopping Destination in Southeast Asia Malaysians can now shop trusted brands and get them delivered within 24 hours or less.

azada Malaysia, the nation’s leading online shopping and selling destination launched LazMall, a curated selection of leading international and local brands, toprated online brands and authorised brand distributors. Products under LazMall are delivered to customers’ doorstep in 24 hours or less, are 100% genuine and include a 15-day easy return policy.

Christophe Lejeune, Chief Executive Officer, Lazada Malaysia, said that LazMall is a one-stop destination with well-known brands under one roof. “Lazada is the first e-commerce platform to offer customers next-day delivery, beginning with the Klang Valley. This is the next step in our mission to continuously achieve best-in-class customer satisfaction by building a holistic end-to-end ecosystem.”

The launch of LazMall is significant as more brands are choosing to partner with e-commerce platforms to extend their reach and build stronger affinity with consumers who are more mobile, unafraid to go cashless, and have made online shopping a part of their lifestyles, added Christophe.

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NEXT-DAY DELIVERY Products from LazMall will be delivered within 24-hours from the time of purchase – a first in Malaysia. Lazada currently has an average delivery time of 1.2 days from the time of purchase.

15-DAY EASY RETURNS Shoppers can return the product, free of charge, within 15 days of purchase if they are not completely satisfied with their items from LazMall, Lazada has over 2,000 return points for customers to drop off items they would like to return.

AUTHENTIC PRODUCTS Every Flagship Store and Certified Store on LazMall goes through stringent selection processes to ensure customers receive genuine products. Stores on LazMall must meet guidelines such as brand trademark documentation, excellent seller rating and good fulfilment scores. LazMall sells only authentic and original branded products.

If shoppers receive non-authentic products, Lazada promises to give shoppers twice their money back.

9.9 ONLINE SALE To get shoppers pumped for the year-end shopping bonanza, Lazada

“Lazada is the first e-commerce platform to offer customers nextday delivery, beginning with the Klang Valley.

This is the next step in our mission to continuously achieve best-in-class customer satisfaction by building a holistic end-to-end ecosystem. ~ Christophe Lejeune, Chief Executive Officer, Lazada Malaysia also introduced a new shopping extravaganza, dubbed 9.9, across six countries – Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Themed “All You Ever Wanted”, shoppers can revel in greater discounts and bargains.

Shoppers can use the Lazada App to enjoy fun activities such as “Crazy Deals” and “Shake It” games, while snagging vouchers and great offers. Look out for the 9.9 icon next to products that will be on sale.

Currently, Lazada Malaysia offers more than 100 million products across various categories, including fashion, baby products, home & living, health & beauty and a wide range of electronic products.

Established in 1985 by Dato’ Stanley Chew, Metroport is one of the nation’s leading logistics providers that offers a full range of domestic and international freight forwarding, warehousing, and third-party logistics solutions.

to grow the business in the age of technology and Internet of Things. His daughter Ye Leng is the Group Executive Director of the company.

The Group makes a conscious effort to retain good customer relations with all their stakeholders including their supply chain in order to build a reputation as the preferred logistics provider in the country.

DIGITAL ROUTE

tarting off as a domestic forwarding and custom brokerage company for local imports and exports, Metroport expanded their business to include warehousing in 1991 as well as domestic and cross border distribution services between 1994 and 1997.

Their services also include shipping, international freight forwarding, marine insurance, project shipments as well as door-to-door delivery service.

Metroport is also an industry leader in Less Container Load (LCL) cargo, which enables shippers without substantial cargo volume to deliver their products to new markets such as East Malaysia.

The logistics company was also the first to embrace computerised warehouse management and inventory control systems that allowed for a more effective stock control and cargo delivery which earned the trust of global brands such as Procter & Gamble, Mitsubishi Electric, F&N Dairies, Tupperware, Daikin, many multinational companies (MNCs) and Malaysian Superbrand companies such as Fonterra, SC Johnson, 7 Eleven and Antah Melco Electric.

One of the largest forwarding agencies in the country as well as the

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largest cargo consolidator for East Malaysia, Metroport now services a global network with over 300 logistics partners over 5 continents covering 750 cities worldwide.

Given their forward-looking innovative culture, use of cutting-edge technology and expansive shipping network, Metroport that we see today empowers businesses worldwide by offering competitive, fast, efficient and reliable logistics solutions.

Metroport is among the pioneers that implemented electronic funds transaction (EFT), electronic data interchange (EDI) and Customs Information System or popularly known as SMK. Their live tracking of shipments links their network to importers and exporters globally.

The younger management team pays close attention to software and applications that will further enhance their business. One of the new software they are currently focusing on is expected to introduce online booking for their logistics services. Besides that, they are looking at joint ventures with e-commerce companies to serve the fast-growing online business segments.

Metroport’s management also has plans to use social media channels to engage with their customers and supply chain so that clients worldwide can enjoy hassle-free door-to-door deliveries and returns.

ENABLING GLOBAL GROWTH

ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD

Dato’ Stanley strategically positioned Metroport as a total logistics provider to local and international MNC clients right from the start.

Dato’ Stanley places high amount of trust and confidence in his people

Indeed, Metroport has paved the way to gain their clients’ trust and confidence and penetrate the overseas market so that they can deliver Anywhere In The World – a tagline that reflects the Group’s vision and mission.

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Metroport, Malaysia’s Preferred Logistics Provider Anywhere in the World

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TEC For Higher Productivity In Retail And F&B Sectors Productivity Nexus for Retail and F&B forms Partnership with University of California, Berkeley, on Technology, Ecosystem & Culture (TEC) Immersion Programme specially designed for business owners and entrepreneurs to embrace the productivity mindset. ne of the challenges in the retail and F&B industry is that business owners and entrepreneurs, especially in SMEs, tend to consider expenditures in technology, innovation, and people development, as costs instead investments.

As such, the retail and F&B industry remain as one of the lowest where productivity is concerned. This industry also sees a low adoption in technology and is highly reliant on low-skilled foreign workers.

In the category of labour productivity the retail and F&B sub-sector only chalked RM38,797 in 2017 compared to other services sub-sectors such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Services (RM305,942), Professional Services (RM79,192), Private Healthcare Services (RM71,879) and Tourism Services (RM50,914).

To address this issue, Productivity Nexus for Retail and F&B organised a TEC study trip in October to the Silicon Valley in California, USA. This three-day program saw the Productivity Nexus for Retail and Food and Beverages working with the University of California,

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Berkeley, to help Malaysian small and medium-sized entrepreneurs up their game in the area of productivity through site visits and lectures.

Led by Dato’ Bruce Lim, Champion of Productivity Nexus for Retail and F&B, the programme, which saw the participation of 36 business owners, was specially designed for business owners and entrepreneurs to take a leap to embrace a mindset focused on productivity.

“This is a flagship programme in line with Productivity Nexus’ third

and fourth productivity initiatives highlighted in its productivity blueprint.

These productivity initiatives aspire to strengthen retail and F&B competencies, and provide assistance to retail and F&B players to grow internationally,” he said.

Productivity Nexus for Retail and F&B is a platform that caters to enterprises to boost productivity while increasing innovation and capturing growth opportunities.

Its initiatives emphasise the development of a holistic ecosystem in order to increase technology adoption

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in the industry. It is led by highly skilled and specialised individuals who are committed to administering the implementation of productivity efforts as governed by the country’s National Productivity Council.

The highlight of the trip was the visit to four organisations in the Silicon Valley and the Bay Area, namely Googleplex, Target Open House, Café X and Ferry Building Marketplace where e-commerce and its ecosystem were founded. These locations are known as hotbeds for technology start-ups and companies that have experienced rapid growth.

“Participants of the trip have opened

Dato’ Mohd Razali Hussain

YB Dr. Ong Kian Ming

themselves to learn the best practices of business and current trends in San Francisco’s Retail and F&B industry.

Hence it is a stepping stone for local business owners to gain knowledge and grow in the retail and F&B industry,” said Dato’ Bruce.

During the trip the participants interacted with faculty members and professors at the University of California, Berkeley. Also key during the trip was the close relationship established with the Managing Director of University of California, Berkeley, Asia, Dana Magenau.

The programme is designed to improve the efficiency of day-to-day operation for SMEs, to nurture a productivity mindset, sustain and witness long-term effects on the bottom line, build a dynamic ecosystem and produce success stories among business leaders and key decision makers.

Through this programme, it is hoped that the

Dato’ Bruce Lim

participants will enhance their learning experience with the world’s best enterprises and adopt constructive tools to expand their businesses.

In September, Dato’ Bruce, together with YB Dr. Ong Kian Ming, Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry and Dato’ Mohd Razali Hussain, Director General of Malaysia Productivity Corporation officially announced the TEC programme designed for business owners and entrepreneurs.

Dr. Ong said that he was very delighted to be a part of the discussion about the future of retail and F&B industry and the initiatives of Productivity Nexus to manoeuvre the expansion of the industry as a whole.

“I believe that we can have a better industry with higher productivity and lower dependence on foreign labours in order to drive our productivity upwards in the near future,” he said.

Dato’ Mohd Razali said he looked forward for Productivity Nexus members to be inspired and working closely with the University of California, Berkeley, which has produced major global entrepreneurs such as Andy Grove of Intel, Steve Wozniak of Apple, Eric Schmidt of Google, Masayoshi Son of Softbank, Marc Tarpenning of Tesla and Donald Fisher of Gap, among others.

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Double Win for Nippon Paint Malaysia Paint company bags Platinum award for Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand Awards 2018 and Gold for Consumer Services at The APPIES 2018. ippon Paint Malaysia recently walked away with two highly-acclaimed industry awards – the Platinum Award in the Household Products Category of the Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand Awards 2018 and the Gold award in the Consumer Services category at THE APPIES 2018.

Nippon’s win marks its 13th year of consecutive win as the consumers’ most trusted brand amongst other industry players.

The Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands Award Malaysia 2018 is judged based on the Trusted Brand Rating and is calculated by combining the average scores from the six criteria and the number of people rating each brand.

The criteria are Trustworthiness & Credibility, Quality, Value, Understanding of Customer Needs, Innovation, and Social Responsibility. For the past 20 years, Readers Digest Awards has selected the most trusted brands and players amongst various industries across Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

THE APPIES award, held annually, showcases the best marketing campaigns and ideas across Asia and rewards the top campaigns across six categories – Consumer Durables, Consumer Services, Food and Beverage, Non-food FMCG, Business Services, and Government, Cultural, Social and Environmental campaigns.

On winning the awards, Head of Retail Marketing of Nippon Paint Malaysia, Siow Shy Teng said that the company will continue to provide the best possible customer experiences that allows it to better engage with customers through the introduction of fresh and innovative products and at the same time, to meet their ever-changing needs and demands.

One of Nippon Paint’s latest additions to its coatings solution

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includes the Child Wellness Range, the first child-friendly coatings in the industry. “The introduction of this range has generated a positive response in across all aspects whilst our campaign enabled us to reach out towards the right target audience.

We are indeed glad that we’ve earned the trust of Malaysian consumers and we will continue to stay true to our innovative spirit both in terms of our products, services and marketing approaches,” she added.

Leveraging on the success of Nippon Paint’s Child Wellness Programme, Nippon Paint continues to jointly work with partner associations such as Persatuan Pengasuh Berdaftar Malaysia,

the Malaysian Paediatric Association, Persatuan Tadika and the Malaysian Society of Allergy & Immunology to educate discerning parents and childcare providers on the health and wellness of young children as well as building upon existing relationships with key stakeholders such as caregivers and parents by providing their expert recommendations on suitable colour schemes and complete coatings solutions.

“Nippon Paint will continue to strive towards further improving our customer experiences and journey while inspiring them to be bolder in creating their desired spaces – be it at home or at the workplace, indoor or outdoor,” said Siow.

Siow Shy Teng, Head of Retail Marketing, Nippon Paint Malaysia, receiving the Platinum award.

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Entrepreneurial Virtuosity Sunrider’s founders, Dr. Tei-Fu Chen, a renowned herbalist and his wife, Dr Oi-Lin Chen, a medical doctor, set up their small company 30 years ago with a mission to “improve the lifestyle and well-being of people around the world”.

The company has since grown to become a worldwide success. unrider was founded by two entrepreneurs, Dr. Tei-Fu Chen, a world renowned herbalist with a degree in pharmacy, and his wife, Dr. Oi-Lin Chen, a licensed medical doctor. They started Sunrider from a small office in Utah in 1982, but their passion for herbs,

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nutrition, and perfection, along with their vocation to not only help others but also to inspire them to live their lives as best as possible, led them to transform that small company into a worldwide success.

More than three decades after founding Sunrider, Drs. Chen’s original mission of “improving the lifestyle and well-being of people around the world” remains as vibrant as ever.

Now, together with their five children, they continue to build upon their tradition of offering the world’s best products, a business opportunity that changes the present, and a legacy that shines a light on the future.

NOURISHING THE WORLD & IMPROVING LIVES Since 1982, Sunrider has been helping people around the world achieve success and financial independence with our rewarding business opportunity. Sunrider is present in 50 countries, and growing. The company takes great pride in offering products of the highest quality that enable people to make exciting changes in the way they look, feel, and live their lives.

HANDLED BY FOOD EXPERTS The art of herbal science means understanding ancient herbal wisdom and modernising it with leading-edge science and technology. Sunrider’s owners know when to harvest the herbs, which parts to use, and how to extract their nutrients in the most precise way. While most companies hire or outsource their research, procurement, and formulation procedures, Sunrider owners’ expertise allows the company to oversee every step of the manufacturing process, from product conception to packaging. With backgrounds and degrees in Western medicine, herbology, pharmacology and organic chemistry, they are able to combine the best of Eastern and Western science to create the most innovative, effective products.

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Top Glove Corporation Bhd

World’s Largest Manufacturer of Gloves Home grown Top Glove Corporation stays ahead of competition by practising employee-centric culture, prioritising good health, discipline, and good business ethics.

op Glove Corporation Bhd is the world’s largest manufacturer of gloves.

It owns 40 factories with a total of 648 production lines and production capacity of 60.5 billion gloves per annum as at September 2018. With operations spanning Malaysia, Thailand, China, US, and Europe, it serves a growing network of 2,000 customers across 195 countries.

Listed on the Malaysian Bourse in March 2001 and on the Mainboard of the Singapore Exchange in June 2016, it has demonstrated steady growth with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR)

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of 22.1% for revenue and 20.8% for profit after tax over the past 17 years.

Top Glove Corporation Berhad has a market capitalization of RM13.5 billion as on 26th September 2018. It is also a component stock of the MSCI Global Standard Index, FTSE Bursa Malaysia (“FBM”) Mid 70 Index, FBM Top 100 Index, FBM Emas Index, FBM Emas Syariah Index, FTSE Bursa Malaysia Hijrah Shariah Index and FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index.

The Top Glove success story began in 1991, as a local business enterprise with a single factory and one glove production line. Today, it has captured 26% of the world market share and offers a comprehensive product range, fulfilling demand in both the healthcare and non-healthcare segment.

Its outstanding achievements and international recognition are credited to its dynamic founder Tan Sri Dr Lim Wee Chai. Guided by Top Glove’s Vision to be the world’s leading manufacturer with excellent quality glove products and services, and a time-tested Business Direction to produce consistently high quality gloves at efficient low cost, he has grown the company into the resounding success it is today. To ensure it continues to deliver a strong performance and customer satisfaction, Top Glove invests extensively in R&D to drive product innovation and improve process efficiency. Tan Sri Dr Lim has also instilled a unique employeecentric culture prioritising good health, discipline and the upholding of good Business Ethics, which have contributed to the Top Glove success story.

Tan Sri Dr Lim constantly emphasises that it is the people that form the foundation of the company.

In his words, “Building a successful

company is much like building a tower.

We must first have a strong foundation.

This will ensure it lasts for many years.”

To this end, Top Glove has established a robust health program which includes enforcing strictly “no smoking” policy which prohibits smoking amongst all employees, complimentary dental kits for all staff to encourage the brushing of teeth thrice daily, and quarterly BMI measurement for employees to keep their weight in check. Health talks and events are also organized by a dedicated Corporate Health Team and employees also have free access to the company’s gymnasium. This is also in line with Top Glove’s 5 Wells (Clean Well, Eat Well, Work Well, Exercise Well and Sleep Well), which the employees practise in order to live and work healthily till 120 years of age.

A true leader by example, Tan Sri Dr Lim credits the success of Top Glove to having set the correct direction and adopting a set of good values. His personal motto: ‘Work is my hobby, Exercise is my duty and Health is my wealth’ is one such philosophy which he lives out daily.

Not content to rest on its laurels, Top Glove aspires to attain a 30% world market share by 2020 and become a Fortune Global 500 company by 2040.

It is also aggressively expanding its business scope and on the lookout for M&A opportunities in other businesses which will create synergy and add value to Top Glove current business operation.

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UMR Strategic Gets You The Right People One of the nation’s leading foreign manpower agency, UMR Strategic Sdn Bhd empowers businesses via a reliable network, transparent operating procedures and value-added services which explains their impressive range of clients. unning people’s business is never a walk in the park. From sourcing the right talent right up to sorting documentation and placement, manpower agencies generally face complex sets of challenges that could hamper their business progress.

However with due diligence, excellent management and efficient communication, even challenging industries like theirs are poised for great growth – as exemplified by UMR Strategic Sdn Bhd, one of the nation’s biggest foreign manpower recruitment consultancy.

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THE BEGINNING Alvin Lee, the founder and Managing Director of UMR Strategic is a jack of all trades, running various types of businesses before opening the agency.

He was moved at the thought of businesses struggling to source and employ reliable manpower that forms the crux of many businesses.

After all, people are often described to be an organisation’s greatest asset and without the right people, the organisation is likely to face stagnated growth and earnings as a result of high overhead and low productivity.

Alvin knew that if he steered his business in a sincere and committed way, he’d be a darling

of big brands that require a large workforce to operate. He set up UMR Strategic in 2002 for this purpose and true enough, his wide clientele speaks volume of his business’ reputation.

With its headquarters at USJ, Subang Business Centre (near CIMB), UMR’s 45-strong staff handles the sourcing and placement of foreign workers for small, medium and large corporations nationwide.

ONE-STOP SOLUTIONS PROVIDER Alvin “envisioned the idea” of matching talent with the right industry, sourcing them out and providing end-to-end solutions right up to the point of orientation and acculturation before making his move into the industry.

“At least 65% of the clientele are public listed and MNCs, earning us the name as preferred manpower supplier among global brands based in Malaysia.” ~ Alvin Lee, Founder and Managing Director of UMR Strategic

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What others saw as a problem, Lee saw them as a profitable solution.

That was why he made it his business’ vision and mission to take care of everything for his clients. As a trusted agent, UMR Strategic provides a full range of services including managing the administrative aspects of securing approvals and obtaining immigration clearance for their workers.

Workers are briefed and oriented prior to their interview to ensure that they understand at least the basic needs and operating environment of the industry they are about to enter.

These workers also undergo health screenings prior to their Malaysianbound trip.

Having been in the business for 16 years, UMR Strategic has established excellent connectivity and network with manpower source countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam, Phillippines and more.

Their reputation have even earned them international recognition so much so that they are ranked 7th Best Foreign Manpower Consultancy out of 1,000 listed suppliers in Nepal.

Besides a branch office in Nepal, they also have nine Nepalese and Bangladeshi consultants who make

frequent visits to job sites afterbeing based in Malaysia together with local operations support team during the recruitment process to troubleshoot for clients, as and when necessary.

To cut themselves a competitive edge, UMR uses a zero-cost strategy that does not entail any expenses for clients if UMR were to use the respective company’s hiring permit when outsourcing their manpower.

If clients opt for a direct supply method, UMR reimburses clients with pro-rated levy charges should any untoward incidences such as abscondment or repatriation take place within the first year of employment.

They even pay for the workers’ return to the source country should such situations occur.

Apart from securing approvals from the relevant bodies such as Home Affairs Ministry and Department of Labour, UMR Strategic also makes it a point to assist with FOMEMA checkups and provide counselling services to workers. UMR’s services also come with a cost-benefit analysis and industry updates for their clients.

Besides the stringent recruitment process which saves time and cost for their clients’ Human Resource divisions,

UMR’s intervention addresses issues such as delays and disruptions which advertently helps keep productivity high at all times.

IMPRESSIVE CLIENTELE From giants such as Carlsberg and Top Glove to popular retailers like Caring Pharmacy, Popular, Mr D.I.Y and Grand Hyatt hotel, UMR Strategic services over 30 brands across five industries.

85% of repeat business is a sure sign of customer satisfaction.Of that number 65% of the clientele are corporate companies, earning them the name as prefered manpower supplier among global brands based in Malaysia.

To date, UMR Strategic has successfully recruited and placed over 30,000 foreign workers in the retail, F&B, hospitality, manufacturing and security industries, among others.

With such comprehensive services, the leading manpower consultancy is looking at achieving an annual growth rate of 20 per cent. Whilst their present focus remains within national boundaries, UMR is committed to providing exceptional value-added services that will eventually earn them greater prominence and prestige in the industry.

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unifi’s SME Community Connects To The Heart Of Your Business SMEs are the backbone of the Malaysian economy as they form over 98% of businesses across all sectors. Therein lies the need for a network that will keep them thriving. icture a one-point platform that does not only provide access to relevant news and information but also keeps you connected to a significant support network and presents a host of end-to-end business solutions. This is exactly what the SME Community portal, a special business package by TM unifi does for you, for free.

Hundreds of thousands of start-ups, micro as well as small and mediumscale businesses are ramping up their game locally and globally. With every other business falling in the SME category, competitions abound, making Malaysia the perfect hot spot for new and innovative commerce to bloom.

Whether you’re thinking of expanding your business, increasing

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your order book, upskilling your people or simply revising your playbook, there is always a need for information and with the age of digitalisation, there is no limit to digital data.

The challenge with this scenario is that business leaders will often find themselves with an information overload which may lead to gaps such as delayed decision making and mismatch of business solutions.

The SME Community business portal aims to close that gap by serving as a one-stop platform that keeps SMEs on top of their game with relevant and informative resources.

This means that as a member of the SME Community portal, you gain valuable access to government agencies, business associations and

other support networks that can upscale your business.

ENGAGING THE SME COMMUNITY The portal is designed to engage local entrepreneurs, giving them quick access to industry insights and keeping them abreast of latest news and happenings.

Its SME Events section offers

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MAKING YOUR BUSINESS STAND OUT

exclusive engagements, programmes and workshops organised by unifi and its strategic SME partners such as MDEC, SME Corp and various other entrepreneurial agencies.

Among the regular programmes the entrepreneurs should not miss include the SME BizNet and unifi’s Go Digital Business Class programmes.

The SME BizNet is an exciting engagement programme with industry innovators. Here, participants are given an opportunity to learn about the latest trends in their respective industries to be applied in their business.

They will also learn about business financial tips, an aspect that could make or break businesses. With guidance from industry experts, entrepreneurs learn to be business and finance-savvy. unifi’s Go Digital Business Class is a must-go for every entrepreneur who is embracing e-commerce as today’s business landscape is never complete without it.

Here, participants learn to form their own websites according to their business needs and master digital

marketing techniques to expand their market reach and grow their sales.

EN ROUTE TO DISCOVERY The route to entrepreneurship can be a lonely one and it is easy to lose the inspiration that kickstarted the journey.

Use the portal to reignite the fire within you by reading tips and success stories of other businesses in the fraternity.

Its Biz Tips section is chock-a-block with inspiring reads, true stories and motivational journeys, business tips and success stories of distinguished brands and establishments.

Meanwhile, find the right business solutions that will springboard both the business and your motivation with their Biz Solutions platform.

Find what works best for your business and shop for solutions that can enhance its growth, be it business planning solutions, financing advice, branding exercise or suitable marketing strategies.

Biz Deals is yet another exciting channel where members will find the latest offers and promotions from the

Why stop at surfing the digital marketplace for insights and business solutions?

Members who join the SME Community also stand a chance to enjoy exclusive privileges such as invitations to exclusive SME events and opportunities to optimise their business connection through strong networking.

Apart from meeting business leaders and icons, members can also take advantage of the periodical deals and offers such as free delivery services and free admissions into business workshops and programmes that will further add value to their business. It is a perfect channel for budding and SME entrepreneurs to market their business and bring it to greater heights. unifi Head of SME Sales Shahril Effendi Jaafar said that it is important for businesses to go digital in order to stay relevant.

In the wake of Industry 4.0, businesses that snooze, lose the game overnight. To him, SMEs must catch up with the fast-paced digital environment and jump at every opportunity that will help generate bigger and better prospects to stay relevant and add value to their endeavours.

How to join the SME Community: Register for free at https:// smecommunity.unifi.com.my or email queries to smecommunity@ unifi.com.my

SME Community strategic partners as well as unifi.

Enjoy special offers, discounts, rates and savings when you subscribe to their commercial features. For instance, Lapasar. com is one of their most comprehensive B2B marketplaces. Businesses can easily source for supplies or fulfil their needs by procuring over 16,000 products at special corporate rates, directly from the platform.

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ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub Asia’s Premier One-stop Rejuvenation Centre ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub is a leading rejuvenation centre strategically located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. It is within 5 minutes walking distance to Mid Valley Megamall and 10 minutes walking distance to KL Sentral. wner and founder of ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub Dato’ Sharon Foong, has been enhancing lives with ZÉLL-V Cellular Therapy for over 10 years, helping tens of thousands of people achieve better health, vitality, beauty, and quality of life through cellular rejuvenation and regeneration.

Her quest for optimum health has taken her to countries like Germany, Switzerland and New Zealand, where upon discussing with research teams there, she realised that optimum health cannot be achieved by one product, one technology or one medical technique alone. With this, Dato’ Sharon Foong has established ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub, with the aim of helping people planned their health thoroughly, and offering them solutions that would ensure lifelong health and vitality.

Comprising 15 floors, ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub provides a series of comprehensive services with the aim of blending cuttingedge western medicine with eastern healing therapies to

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answer the timeless desire for your overall wellness – body, mind and soul balance. These services include health screenings, cellular therapies, innovative holistic therapies, meditation, scalp and hair treatment, postnatal rejuvenation, talent development, child care and fine dining restaurant, among others.

STRONG MEDICAL SUPPORT A medical advisory board consisting of international and local medical doctors as well as scientists forms a strong core of support for ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub. The in-house specialists include ZÉLL-V Head of Medical Unit Prof Dr

Owner and founder of ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub Dato’ Sharon Foong.

H.K. Yeo who is an immune-oncologist cum scientist, and V-Wellness Medical Director Dato’ Dr Nor Shahidah Khairullah.

Globally, ZELL-V is supported by medical specialists such as Dr Helmut Brammer, president of the German Society for Thymus Therapy and founder of the German Medical Society for Chelation Therapy, orthopaedic specialists Dr Harald Lehmann and Dr Yaroslav Vasilcisin, among others. It also has the support of medical specialists from Switzerland, USA, Indonesia and the Middle East.

Every year, ZELL-V holds a number of symposiums on current health issues and cellular therapy where internationally renowned doctors are invited to share their views and experience with the public.

Through positive word-of-mouth, ZÉLL-V Wellness Hub has drawn in a large number of customers from all over the world including Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Indonesia, China, Vietnam, and Singapore. These people have enjoyed ZELL-V’s top-notch facilities and services provided by its highly knowledgeable and experienced medical teams which consist of medical doctors, research scientists, integrative consultants, chiropractors, nutritionists, medical aesthetics, international chefs, hypnotherapists, yogis, pharmacists, masseuses and medical staff nurses.

Your unique ZÉLL-V Wellness experience starts with selecting a Retreat – Cancer Management, Heart Health, Comprehensive Detox, Diabetic Management, Anti- Ageing and Weight Management, among others.

Begin your journey today by contacting us at +603-2273 6699, +6012-528 8513 enquiry@ ruyiholdings.com or www. zellvwellness.com.

With sustainable business practices and mindful strategies, Coca Cola Malaysia continues to remain as the country’s chosen soft drink brand. oca Cola, the world’s leading beverage company – ranked top in Fortune 500’s list of companies – which began in 1886 in the United States, is now operating in over 20 countries and has over 3,800 products. Coca Cola started its operations in Malaysia in 1936 and today, it owns about 14 brands that carry about 200 products besides its entire Coke range.

These products include sparkling, non-sparkling and drinking water beverages such as Fanta, Sprite, A&W, Schweppes, zero-calorie Coca-Cola Light, Zero Sugar, Stevia and Sprite Zero range, Minute Maid Pulpy juice, Heaven and Earth & Authentic Tea House range of teas, Aquarius isotonic drink, and Dasani bottled water.

With over RM1 billion investment, Coca Cola was relaunched in Malaysia in 2010. Additional investments of RM500 million are also continuously made to keep their operating model in line with the changing consumers’ taste and buying patterns.

Having created over 10,000 jobs nationwide – through its plant, supply and distribution links – Coca Cola Bottlers Malaysia boasts a customer reach of over 200,000.

With over 90% of its products sourced locally, Coca Cola’s manufacturing plant in Malaysia not only produces for Malaysia but also for the Singapore and Brunei markets.

delivers exciting news on our products and events through social media medium,” says McGeown.

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A GOOD RECIPE Chief executive officer for Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei Gareth McGeown is not only tasked with building a strong portfolio of “consumer-centric brands”, he also leads Coca Cola on a path of transformation, to become a ‘Total Beverage Company’.

“We are rethinking some of the company’s beverage recipes to reduce sugar, and investing to make the next generation of zero-calorie sweeteners,” he says.

Three of 5 Coca-Cola™ products in Malaysia are certified with the Healthier

SUSTAINABILITY, ITS HEART AND SOUL

“We ensure that our products are available to buy through every on-line shopping platform and delivers exciting news on our products and events through social media medium.” ~ Gareth McGeown, Chief Executive Officer for Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei

Choice Logo (HCL) include Coca-Cola Stevia, recognised by the Ministry of Health (MOH) as lower sugar options for consumers within the sparkling beverages category.

Coke also adopts the right practices to win customers. This includes launching of new innovations, embracing digitalisation that includes e-shopping and fuelling the company’s growth via various sustainable practices.

“We have a group of young dedicated digital team that is focusing on the digitization of the business. We have a retailer app that enables the retailer to order our products at the tip of their finger, we ensure that our products are available to buy through every on-line shopping platform and

Coca Cola takes a mature stand on sustainability which positions the brand high up the value chain of responsible businesses. Its sustainable business practices take the product, policy, environment, business and social compliance into consideration.

This includes hiring the right people, employing the right technology and initiating the right practices that will not only comply with standards set in the respective matrixes but also raise the bar for the FMCG industry as whole.

Through its “World Without Waste” campaign, the company is committed to ensuring that all their packaging is 100% recyclable and aim to use at least 25% recycled plastic to produce their bottles by 2030.

The company also works with organisations like SWCorp., CENVIRO, Global Environment Centre, Raleigh International and Reef Check Malaysia, among others, on various programmes such as the Eco Youth Challenge involving 200 schools in the south of Malaysia; waste management; recycling; peat swamp preservation and coral protection.

Their Water Stewardship programme is aimed at returning the same amount water used in their manufacturing facilities to the local communities and environment.

Their LEED Gold Certified plant has some of the most advanced features which includes rainwater harvesting system for their toilets and cleaning and an automation system that reduces electricity usage. The automation system also operates their forklifts.

With their business sustainability secured, Coca Cola continues to be involved in thorough R&D to drive growth through newer innovations that will keep the global brand competitive, attractive and relevant.

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Inculcating A Positive Attitude At The Workplace Companies can make a big difference in their performance if they inculcate the five most desired attitudes in employees.

By Dr Victor SL Tan

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remember a few years ago, when I was delivering a talk in a room packed with CEOs from different countries in Asia, I posed a simple but powerful question: what kind of work attitudes would you like your staff to have?

While the answers regarding the desired work attitudes may be said in different ways, most of the responses can be grouped into five categories which I believe comprise the attitude of success in the workplace.

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IT IS POSSIBLE

In the midst of facing a great challenge where many become negative, it is always very encouraging to hear an employee who states that it is possible to solve the problem.

Such people believe that anything is possible if one has the mindset, the will and persistence to pursue the goal until it is achieved. These employees subscribe to the philosophy of “whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve”. They do what’s needed, then they do what’s possible and then they attempt what was thought impossible. With their effort, perseverance and grit, they soon overcome the odds – stretching themselves from “impossible” to “possible.”

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I AM RESPONSIBLE

Many employees are trapped by circumstances, excuses and blame. They become victims due to their attitude of not taking responsibility.

However, the moment one takes full responsibility for what happens, one escapes the clutch of being a victim. As the saying goes, “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to what happens.”

When employees accept the personal responsibility of their circumstances, they are a step closer to becoming winners.

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TAKING INITIATIVE

There is one thing that most leaders value highly about their subordinates – doing the right thing at the right time without being told.

There are many employees who are too dependent on instructions to do things. Some need to be monitored and pressured into doing things. CEOs need employees who are independent in their

thinking and who take the initiative to do things and create productive change. In this are one company which is spending time developing its team of people is Matterhorn Lin Foong. Its CEO, Han Fook Chew, created a conducive environment to encourage his staff to take initiatives to make positive and productive changes in his company. He agrees with former US President Barack Obama who said, “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

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DO WHATEVER IT TAKES

One CEO confided in me that he gets very upset each time his staff tells him he will try his best to get something done. He pointed out that trying at something come across as lacking in self-belief and commitment. When he selects a leader to do something of significance, he does not want them to try to do. He wants them to do whatever it takes to achieve success. That’s the kind of passion and determination he wants his top leaders to have to do their work. An employee who does whatever it takes to succeed is certainly an asset in any organisation.

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SOLUTION-DRIVEN

In the workplace and marketplace, all of us are paid to solve problems. Bosses are always on a lookout for employees who have the right attitude towards a problem.

Good employees diagnose the problem,

ascertain the root causes and seek possible solutions. They then weigh the pros and cons, select a practical and cost-effective solution and implement it. The solution-driven employee is one who has the courage and perseverance to continue to seek solutions to complex or challenging problems.

In essence, work attitude arises from beliefs and feelings of the employees about various aspects of work and the workplace. According to a Gallup study, negativity in the workplace costs the U.S. economy between $250 billion to $300 billion a year. The best education, skills and talent cannot substitute for good work attitude. It is time leaders in organisations spent time to mould the work attitude of their staff to improve their organisation’s performance.

“Attitude,” said Winston Churchill, “is a little thing that makes a big difference.”

Companies can make a big difference in their performance if they start inculcating the above five most desired attitudes in employees.

Dr Victor SL Tan is the CEO of KL Strategic Change Consulting Group. He undertakes change management consulting and training and is also the author of 10 management books. If your organisation is keen to inculcate such work attitudes in your staff, please contact him for a customised program at victorsltan@klscc.com or 012-3903168.

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entrepreneurs worldwide, particularly in US and Europe. The Lee siblings have also gone on to achieve a strong online platform which sells over 500 certified organic and natural products online.

Having come this far, the Malaysian Book of Record holder for the Largest Organic Retail Chain is far from resting on its laurel.

Besides establishing themselves as a renowned international eco-friendly brand, BMS Organics has set its target high to have 200 outlets in at least three countries within the next five years.

NICHE MARKET

Terry Lee

Clean & Green Route to Success BMS Organics is a prime mover in the niche organic products market. reen is fast becoming the new black, globally. The rise of green building, green lifestyle and vegetarianism are no longer passing trends but are fast becoming conscious lifestyle choices as awareness on green living rises tremendously.

Similarly, green retailers are mushrooming nationwide with BMS Organics leading comfortably in the ring, while driving this niche market forward.

Founded in 1997 at the height of the Asian economic crisis, BMS Organics is an entity under FMC Greenland Sdn Bhd, a leading manufacturer, distributor, wholesaler and exporter of organic natural food and health products.

Dr. K.B. Lee, along with his two siblings had the vision of setting up an outlet that promoted holistic living through the right food and products devoid of preservatives, colouring and

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flavouring. Starting out as a small outlet that raised awareness on healthy food intake, BMS Organics quickly grew in size and following, establishing seven outlets within five years.

It wasn’t until 2002 that the youngest of the Lee siblings, Terry, who started pushing the business beyond its boundaries, with aggressive marketing and promotion. Terry, who has a degree in Business in Network Computing, helped leapfrog the business’ growth.

BMS Organics quickly grew to include 44 outlets and 26 vegetarian cafes that serve fresh and healthy dishes that are MSG and GMO-free under his visionary guidance. By 2017, the green product retailer opened up their first international outlet in China.

There are now two stores in China while early 2018 saw them implementing the idea of franchising their well-established brand to

The Lee brothers attributed their success factor to the company’s flexibility to adapt to market needs and excellence in attitude, planning and organisational skills in line with their vision, mission and organisational values of Perseverance, Politeness and Sincerity. Above all, it was their sincere intention to protect the environment and the health of future generation that kept them going.

They not only built strong bridges between organic farmers, manufacturers and suppliers, they also shaped sustainable business practices and raised industry standards along the way.

BMS Organics’ 2-in-1 business model plays a huge role in sustaining their business.

As an advocate of natural products, BMS Organics strongly believes a sound body and mind is a result of lifestyle choices, which includes responsible food intake hence, why they are particular about the source of their products.

Eighty per cent of their products are imported from US, UK, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, China and India among other countries and a majority of their products are certified organic

by National Association for Sustainable Agriculture, Australia (NASAA), USDA Organic, BCS, JAS and other organic certification bodies.

Overall, BMS Organics goes beyond profit-making. It is a business that upholds its mission to promote a holistic, healthy and an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Sunway Malls Wins Best in Asia Award

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HR Asia bestows regional recognition to Sunway Malls.

unway Malls has been recognised as one of Malaysia’s best companies to work for in Asia. HR Asia, Asia’s most authoritative publication for senior HR professionals, created the HR Asia “Best Companies to Work for in Asia” platform, where best practices and inner workings of companies are investigated to understand what distinguishes them from the rest. The Awards covered 12 markets across the region and culminated with an award ceremony recently to celebrate the winners.

“This award is massive and will propel us forward in our journey to be the preferred employer with highly engaged staff in the shopping mall industry,” said Kevin Tan, Chief

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Operating Officer of Sunway Malls. “This would not have been possible without the diligence of the staff, especially leaders of the respective malls, the engagement champions, and HR staff.”

Sunway Malls’ vision is “to create experiences that enrich lives” and this vision is extended to its external stakeholders and employees. “We have four core values as the guiding factors to our vision – Integrity, Humility, Excellence and Togetherness. Through constant innovation and brainstorming sessions, we take into account our employees’ needs and aim to provide to our best of ability,” added Kevin Tan. As the main retail arm of Sunway Group, Sunway Malls takes in Sunway’s policies and practices, and create new engagement programmes that are

relevant to its employees in a more lifestyle arena instead of corporate.

“With five operating malls and two more opening this year and next year, our contribution to the economic vitality of those communities is substantial, as we provide jobs with good wages and benefits to our ever-increasing employee population in addition to a mall with plenty of shops offering job prospects.”

Sunway Malls is geared to become Malaysia’s largest mall operator, with 10 malls in the next 5 years or so.

Sunway Pyramid is 21 years old this year. Sunway Carnival, opened in 2007, is undergoing expansion while Sunway Giza is a friendly community mall which opened in 2009. The newer malls are Sunway Putra Mall and Sunway Velocity Mall.

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Datuk Seri Raymond Liew, A Man with A Charitable Heart There is an endearing quality to McMillan Woods Founder and President, Datuk Seri Raymond Liew, as behind the seriousness of advisory, auditing and taxes, is a man with a big charitable heart.

McM Charity Golf @ TPCC.

like to think I have a charitable heart,” said the visionary chartered accountant who wants to impart an invaluable lesson to the younger generation, and among his peers on the importance of giving back to society.

“The more you earn, the more you should give because in life, you can never be poor by giving. I’m a great believer of this principle. If you can give more, God has his own way to reward you, not necessarily in monetary terms but with inner happiness, friendships and anything else that comes along.”

“I

LEANING TO SERVE SOCIETY The McM Cares programme is testament of Datuk Seri Raymond’s vision to have corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the heart of McMillan Woods and its employees worldwide.

The advisory firm’s benevolent charity arm has championed various social and environmental causes

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including planting 201 trees at the Forest Research Institute Malaysia as a gesture of giving back to Mother Earth; donating over RM100,000 to a build a lodge and refurbish a monastery in Hat Yai, Thailand; constructing pipe connections for villagers in Sabah together with “Impian” to harvest water and numerous other charity projects since McM Cares programme was established.

“Villagers in Sabah used to collect water from zinc rooftops and it was a pitiful sight. The day the water pipes were ready, there was so much joy among them, it was unbelievable,” he said. Another feather in his charitable cap is the McMillan Woods Charity Golf Tourney.

On a global scale, the advisory firm is keen to set up the McMillan Woods Foundation to extend its charity reach to a wider audience. “We are great believers in not just donating fund to charities, we are there to see the situation and understand what is going on and lend our efforts,” he said.

The McMillan Woods Global Awards is the biggest social event on the advisory firm’s calendar.

The awards platform is unlike any other because there are no winners.

“We recognise award recipients for their success so there are no winners.

You cannot say someone is a winner because that means they are the best in the industry. That is wrong. So, we recognise people for their success,” said Datuk Seri Raymond, adding that award recipients also lend a hand to raise money for charity.

Some of the notable award recipients include Georgina Hope Rinehart, Dr Binod Chaudhary, Jackie Chan and many other successful entrepreneurs and celebrities, both local and foreign.

“Our awards ceremony also attracts many Hong Kong stars and celebrities as well as successful people worldwide,” he said adding that a minister adviser from Japan was also recognised for his involvement in charity in his country. “McMillan Global Awards was

McM Charity – Penang flood victims.

McM Cares – Planting 201 trees in FRIM.

McM Charity Golf - Trophy presentation.

McM & MRCA Charity Run.

established to nourish and nurture the younger generation.”

Looking ahead, Datuk Seri Raymond said he would like to see the advisory firm getting involved in more CSR projects in Malaysia and worldwide to play a more pivotal role in helping the underprivileged. “Charity is close to our hearts, we believe that we should give a share to help society,” he added.

REFLECTING ON THE YEARS Having lived in London for 20 years, his decision to return to Kuala Lumpur in 1998 was spurred by his desire to be close to his mother. “To me a person’s success is not measured by material wealth, it is measured by family values, how much dedication one has given to the family, especially to the parents.

“A man who is successful but has no respect for his parents is a rich man but without dignity,” said Datuk Seri Raymond without mincing his words.

One could describe as a risk taker who enjoys overcoming obstacles in his path. When he packed his things to move back home, Malaysia was in an economic gloom as it was in the thick of the 1997 recession. He said many of his friends decided to return to UK when the recession hit but he saw the period as a golden opportunity.

“I saw a pot that was leaking and someone had to be there to collect the leakages. Many people don’t see that.

When there is a recession, they move on to a better environment.

I went against the tide because I believed there are more opportunities to tap when the economy is weak.

That has always been my way of doing things, being the odd one out, walking a different path,” said Datuk Seri Raymond as he reflected on his move which eventually led to the birth of McMillan Woods.

After observing a two-year sabbatical, he returned to practice as he was still young and the economy was ripe for the picking and that was when I started my advisory firm known as Raymond Liew and Associates. In Hong Kong, the accountancy firm I was dealing with asked who Raymond Liew was and I replied, ‘It is me’. They replied, ‘Why would we join you if it is only you?’ That served as an invaluable experience on the importance of branding,” he said.

He liked the word McMillan and then incorporated “Woods” as he got the idea from a fellow UK practitioner who was playing golf and the word “wood” came up. And McMillan Woods was born. The advisory firm was incorporated in London, UK, on 10 January 2010 with him as the founding president and three other partners.

“After the experience in Hong Kong, I believe in building a strong foundation and that’s the reason why we have blossomed to have many more offices.

In Japan, they associated McMillan Woods with Tiger Woods. In Hong Kong, they pronounced McMillan to sound like

“make millions” which was good too,” said Datuk Seri Raymond with a laugh.

With an apt name in hand, all the captain had to do was steer the ship in the right direction.

Today, McMillan Woods has an impressive number of offices in Asia and Australia as well as 16 offices in Malaysia. “In a recent visit to London, we tied up with Adam Global in a jointventure agreement and now have a presence in Europe. To me, Asia is the place to be as China is the awakening dragon.”

MAN ON A MISSION Datuk Seri Raymond is also busy looking into setting up the Awards Accreditation Association (AAA) to recognise bodies that give out awards. “By creating the AAA, I hope to give credential to the kind of awards that are being presented in Malaysia to show credibility. So, when people receive awards, they can check if they are members of AAA to show the awards’ credibility,” he said.

He is also keen to be elected into the ACCA Global Council so he can share his invaluable lessons in life with others.

“I want to impart my experience and knowledge in creating the McMillan Woods network with the younger generation, younger ACCA members with the objective of sharing with them that everyone can be an entrepreneur and everyone has the ability to be successful in their own right,” he said on the many projects he has up his sleeve.

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The Young and Sassy Fashion World of YFS A home grown fashion line, YFSCorp offers affordable, stylish, trendy, high-quality clothes via multiple in-house labels that are crafted from scratch through its own fashion retail chain. alaysia may be a thriving hot spot for self-made entrepreneurs of today but the 80s presented a different ballgame altogether with limited opportunities, funding and, more importantly, mass following for the local SME industry. It wasn’t until the 90s that SMEs begin gaining massive reputation before becoming the backbone of the Malaysian economy.

To build a local fashion line back then would have been an uphill battle but one man had a kingly vision of not only starting his own local apparel line, but also positioning it as local fashion powerhouse with a global touch.

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THE BEGINNING Nicholas Chong founded YFS Corporate (M) Sdn Bhd or YFSCorp in 1979 to produce a local fashion line that was both trendy and affordable. As he built his reputation, the local fashion scene was quickly waking up to global fashion

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icons and labels, posing a threat to local businesses. This did not deter Chong from producing high-quality clothing and designs that will impress the Malaysian fashion sense and cents.

More importantly, Nicholas created his own brand to complement the Young, Fabulous and Sassy (YFS) fashion segment as more and more Malaysians began watching out for global fashions trend and settings to follow.

His first YFS Concept Store in Johor designed and manufactured its own apparels and marketed them via its sole retail outlet in the city. His early start helped YFS gain a great mileage as there were not many local companies that were producing their own garments in his first few years in business.

Those existing were either contract or independent manufacturers who were supplying to an external market.

It was all the more reason for Nicholas, who is fashion connoisseur, to explore and excite the local market with

his own ideas and designs before the market started bursting at the seams.

Today, although the local fashion scene is inundated with global fashion brands and countless other local and Asian labels, YFS is enjoying sweet success via 50 over outlets across Malaysia.

With a strong vision to provide fashion-conscious customers with superior quality products, YFS doesn’t just look into fashion trends and behaviours to grow their business. They also put in an effort to ensure that all their labels are manufactured according to good manufacturing practices, which includes an ethical work environment.

The clothing line promotes environmental sustainability by using natural resources and reducing waste in raw materials like cotton.

Apart from generating ample job opportunities, they also invest in social and environmental initiatives as means of contributing back to the local community.

Nicholas was purpose-driven in setting his own standards right from the start. Not only did YFS produce and manufacture its own retail-ready fashion, it also catered to growing fads like Korean fashion and Japanese fashion.

Whether it is Western or Asian, demure or relaxed, YFS has everything under its radar. The clothing line holds its own place among international labels and is continuously seeking ways to build excitement among shoppers, especially during high fashion season and festivals, as those are the times when fashion labels generally introduce new themes and designs to generate some buzz.

The store has many labels manufactured exclusively by YFSCorp including the mother label, Ad Jeans (collection of jeans); Ad Connexion; Ad Exchange; Ad.One; Ad Kids;

Sara Women’s collection; Touch Up Jeansmith; Vimi; MGS Ming Shu; and Mikayla by Sara.

BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE LINE Besides its own retail chain, YFS also created an extensive network to distribute its clothing line via licensing agreements and other viable business models. All of its outlets are consistently brewing with thrilling themes and deals suited for the occasion. For instance, their popular 5 Days Special kick in great amount of excitement as it offers generous discounts, annually.

The store environment also evolves with chic looks, innovative display of products and stylish accessories and prices that shoppers cannot refuse. To make it more appealing, the concept stores also helps personalise shopping experiences with personal shoppers advising customers on fashion and

styling tips that will suit their body shape, complexion and personality.

In its recent expansion plan, YFS opened its doors to international collaborations with popular Japanese label, COCO Concept Stores. Via this collaboration which materialised in 2017, YFS’ COCO label blends Japan street art with creative fabric mix. Within a year, COCO had eight stores nationwide with six other flagship stores waiting in the pipeline.

Since COCO’s popularity superseded the mother brand, YFS has even planned for a new concept store that would eventually mark a rebranding exercise, led by COCO and Mikayla labels.

Even so, as a leading name in the local fashion strata, the fashion retail chain store remains competitive and high-spirited with its stylish and reasonably-priced clothing and accessory range and designs.

“I explore and excite the local market with my own ideas and designs before the market started bursting at the seams.”

– Nicholas Chong founded YFS Corporate (M) Sdn Bhd

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FINGER ON THE FASHION PULSE

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Sharing Deepavali Festive Cheer with Residents of Rumah Ozanam Batu Arang In conjunction with the Deepavali festival, the MRCA Branding Education Charity Foundation organised a charity visit to Rumah Ozanam Batu Arang in Rawang to bring some festive joy to its residents. atuk Albert Chiang, Founder Chairman of MRCA Branding Education Charity Foundation and Datuk Seri Garry Chua, MRCA President, together with Organising Chairlady Datin Flora Tan, MRCA Deputy President Dato Vincent Choo and MRCA Council members, MRCA Youth, and members, visited the home and donated cash and goods to the residents.

MRCA donated a total of RM15,000 worth of cash, groceries, electrical items, medical supplies, ang pow, and goodie bags. These include RM1,000 from Perbadanan Nasional Berhad, RM500 from Datuk Albert Chiang, a pair of spectacles from Focus Point Holdings Berhad, packet drinks, sweets and Tupperware from Transtel Technology and refreshments from Marrybrown Sdn Bhd. “We hope that with this donation, we can help promote awareness amongst our community about the existence of the less fortunate and be grateful

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Group photo with residents of Rumah Ozanam.

for our blessings. With the blessings we receive, we should all give back to the community from time to time to show our love and support towards our society,” said Datuk Seri Garry Chua.

The President of Rumah Ozanam Batu Arang, Mr Sinnappan, said that the home offers a place of rehabilitation and rest for women and children who have been affected by HIV/AIDS, without distinction of their social status, religion and ethnic origin. To date, Rumah Ozanam has assisted more than 170 residents by helping them to recover healthwise, live with dignity, and reintegrating them with their families and society.

During the visit, the MRCA team was also entertained to a violin performance by one of the residents of the home.

Contribution from MRCA Branding Education Charity Foundation.

Second from left-right: Datin Flora, Datuk Albert Chiang, Datuk Seri Garry Chua, Datuk Vincent Choo, Mr Sinnappan and Mr Seak Thean Pow, MRCA Council member.

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Violin performance by one of the residents.

Groceries and electrical items were among the items donated to Rumah Ozanam.

Presenting a pair of spectacles to Mrs Lim, a resident of Rumah Ozanam.

L-R: Datin Flora, Datuk Albert Chiang, Mrs Lim, Datuk Seri Garry Chua, Dato’ Vincent Choo and Mr Seak Thean Pow, MRCA Council member.

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Malaysia Retailer Vol 6 No 4

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