2013 Annual Issue
Bi-monthly Magazine | Issue 15
•Anniversary Edition•
Malaco Mining MD,
Sia Hok Kiang
Bullish Predictions for Malaysia’s Mining Future – It’s High Time to Close the Talent Gap
“Now Everyone Can Have Good Skin” Professor Datin Dr Clara Chee Founder/Chairperson, Clara International Beauty Group
Malaysia’s New Hub of Nanocomputing Technology YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin
Business Segment: People Power: Shankar Nagalingam Country Human Resources Director of Dell Malaysia and South Asia Developing Markets
Defining the MODERN CEO
Dato’ Michael Tio
Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director TM PKT Logistics Sdn Bhd One Logistics Hub
ISSN 2232-0342
9772232034009
PP17103/15/2013 (030736) 2013 Issue 15/ 2013 Annual Issue RM7.00
PEOPLE POWER Mr Shankar Nagalingam
Country Human Resources Director of DELL Malaysia and South Asia Developing Markets 1
2
Defining the MODERN CEO Dato’ Michael Tio Chief Executive
Officer & Managing Director PKT Logistics Sdn Bhd One Logistics HubTM 3
4
“Now Everyone Can Have Good Skin” Professor Datin Dr Clara Chee Founder/Chairperson, Clara International Beauty Group
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EDITOR’S CORPORATE Managing Director: Steven Shim Office Manager: Vicky Shim Key Accounts Manager: Wong Finance Manager: Bonnie Bang EDITORIAL TEAM Senior Editor: Janet Tay Contributing Editors: Alexandra Wong Writers: Nurraihana, Mohd Amil Contributors: Dr Tazeeb, Dr Chong, Sia Hok Kiang, Dr Albert, Dr Loannis, Sr Azita, Massuhaella, Chong Meng Kiong, Cheang Wai Leong, Chua Yu Kiat Photographer: Mccain Photography Graphic Designer: Nazir Tay PUBLISHER Penerbit Wawasan Nusa (M) Sdn Bhd (866716-P), Wisma Wawasan, 19-2 Jalan PJS 8/12, Dataran Mentari, Bandar Sunway, 46150 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia Tel: 603-56301802, Fax: 603-6301803, Email: info@pwn.com.my, penerbitwawasan@gmail.com Website: www.pwn.com.my PRINTER BS Print (M) Sdn Bhd No 10 Jalan Indrahana 1, Off Jalan Kuchai Lama, 58200 KL, Malaysia All rights reserved by MBA Edge™ and its publisher. While every care has been taken, the publisher, writers, and editors will not be held liable for errors, inaccuracies or commissions. Unsolicited material is submitted at sender’s risk. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of copyright owner. The scanning, uploading and distribution of this magazine via the internet or any other means without the permission of publisher is illegal by law.
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While editing our 4th anniversary special edition, I was struck by a common quality among our interviewees. Sure, they think big, are risk takers and probably work harder than anybody in their respective fields - the usual traits associated with over-achievers. But reading about their key lessons and experiences, particularly from the formative years, I couldn’t help noticing another recurring theme: they are all passionate advocates of continuous learning and improvement. Sia Hok Kiang, Managing Director of Malaco Mining and one of the mining industry’s most respected thought leaders, believes that being an all-rounder with a keen understanding of negotiation skills and corporate governance, as well as other important aspects of management, was critical to his professional growth. You may be surprised that Dato’ Michael Tio, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of PKT Logistics Sdn Bd and One Logitics HubTM started the traditional way by joining the family business, but has an ultra-modern approach when it comes to
EDITOR’S NOTE
NOTES corporate culture: he encourages his staff to use Facebook as a communication platform because he believes it helps him to give his employees his side of the story. Professor Datin Dr Clara Chee, Founder and Chairperson of Clara International Beauty Group, a pioneer in the beauty industry, did not rest on her laurels once her beauty business began to boom. Instead, she enrolled in the University of De Montfort UK to upgrade her knowledge and skill sets. The key takeaway: getting ahead goes beyond mastering the technical aspects of your field. The good news? It’s achievable, as these trailblazers prove. Happy learning!
The Editor
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CONTENTS
COVER STORY METAL POWER Postgraduate studies speaks to Mr Sia Hok Kiang, Managing Director of Malaco Mining Sdn Bhd and Council Member of the Malaysian Chamber of Mines.
CONTENTS
10
Highlights
Featuring
18
The Challenges Of Supply Chain Talent Management with Dr. Ioannis Lagoudis & Dr. Albert Tan
32
Student Leader And High Achiever Makes Inspiring Speech At Graduation
28
FACON Education Fair
34
Malaysia’s New Hub Of Nanocomputing Technology
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WORLD CLASS INSTITUTIONS AT FACON EDUCATION FAIR!
Minister of Higher Education Launched Malaysia’s First University to Specialise in Computer Science And Engineering
CONTENTS
BUSINESS SEGMENT
46
PEOPLE POWER Mr Shankar Nagalingam Country Human Resources Director of DELL Malaysia and South Asia Developing Markets
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Defining the MODERN CEO Dato’ Michael Tio Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director PKT Logistics Sdn Bhd One Logistics Hub TM
Interviews
BUSINESS SEGMENT
40 41 42 43 44
66
Sr Azita Mohamed Tahir Chong Meng Kiong Massuhaella Binti Mohd Idris Chun Yu Kiat
“Now Everyone Can Have Good Skin” Professor Datin Dr Clara Chee Founder/Chairperson, Clara International Beauty Group
Cheang Wai Leong 9
By Alexandra Wong
MIGHTY METAL
I
t’s high time to address the talent gap in the mining industry. Despite the tin sector’s collapse, Malaysia’s best days in mining are yet
to come, according to Sia Hok Kiang, CEO of Malaco Mining. He speaks about economic opportunities and job prospects in the mining industry, and gives us his frank views on hot topics Lynas and Rare Earth.
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COVER STORY
Postgraduate studies speaks to Mr Sia Hok Kiang, MD of Malaco Mining.
1
Q
Q
2
How did you get involved in your current field? I am an economic geologist specialising in mineral projects. I graduated in Applied Geology from the University of Malaya. I joined Osbourne and Chappell International (a mining company) in 1981 and was lucky to be posted worldwide in mineral exploration and development projects.
For the benefit of the layman, what exactly do you do? And how does your line of work impact the common man? My forte is my hands-on knowledge in the mining industry. That is, a very good understanding of how the various types of mineral deposits are formed; the costs to mine the mineral deposits, the costs of the various types of mineral extraction methods and a good current understanding of the metal prices. With the above knowledge, I am able to study those mining projects that are in distress (such as under foreclosure or abandoned) and evaluate the geology and mine economics to identify viable deposits from distressed projects.
The science of mineral deposits has advanced tremendously over the last 30 years. By keeping abreast of new knowledge in the geology of ore deposits, I am able to identify “blind� deposits which escaped earlier exploration. There is always a higher probability of finding new ore deposits from a mining field that was closed down. You hunt elephants in elephant country. The revival of closed-down mineral projects helps to unearth locked and abandoned mineral resources and provide additional employment.
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COVER STORY
There is always a higher probability of finding new ore deposits from a mining field that was closed down. You hunt elephants in elephant country.
4
Q
3
Q
What keeps you busy on the professional front these days? Through the Malaysian Chamber of Mines and in collaboration with The Mineral and Geoscience Department, I am actively promoting the revival of the mining industry in Malaysia. I attend mining conferences and present relevant papers. I am also actively identifying viable mineral deposits in Malaysia and other countries.
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What are some of the more exciting global developments happening in the mining industry? The fast-paced economic development of highlypopulated nations and the mass production of miniaturised electronic devices have led to increased demand for conventional industrial metals and new technology metals (NTM). The past decades of lull in the mining industry had resulted in the slowing down of supplies in metals. The imbalance in the supply/demand curve thus pushes the prices up, encouraging the exploration and development of new mining projects. This is the most exciting time in the history of the mining industry.
COVER STORY
Q
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What is the outlook for the mining industry in Malaysia?
Q
Malaysia is lucky to be endowed with very favorable geology for the formation of mineral deposits. This is why we were once the World’s largest producer of tin. We still have substantial primary deposits of tin, tungsten, rare earth, copper, base metals, iron, gold, coal and other industrial minerals awaiting development.
A successful geologist who does well in the mining sector has the competitive advantage of understanding the geology of ore deposits. He/she will be able to progress to head the exploration department of mining companies, and ultimately head the corporation.
With the implementation of the New Mineral Development policies the Government is encouraging the development of the mineral sector; coupled with our high geological potential Malaysia’s outlook for the mining industry is bright.
Better still, if he/she is entrepreneurial he/she may be able to identify mineral deposits and start their own businesses.
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Q
Q
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What are the job prospects available in the mining industry? The mining industry will require geologists, mining engineers, metallurgists, safety/ environmental engineers, civil, mechanical and electrical engineers, accountants, human resource officers and other usual industry support personnel.
What are the career path and rewards that await a geology graduate, for example, if he or she does well in the mining sector?
In Australia, mining leaders have raised the concern of the lack of skilled workers. Is Malaysia facing a similar manpower shortage in the mining sector? This problem is even more acute in Malaysia. Since the collapse of the tin industry in 1985 the Malaysian mining industry has practically ceased, save a handful of mines. This lack of job opportunity discouraged students from taking mining geology courses. Those who did graduate in geology were unable to obtain industry training and exposure to gain experience, resulting in a huge talent gap.
What is the root cause of the talent gap?
Q
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Our local universities provide geology as well as mineral engineering courses, so there is no lack of educational opportunity. It is the lack of a viable career path within the country that caused the talent gap.
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10
Q
Should it be an area to reconsider, with the advent of information technology and mining technology, not to mention the fact that mining is on the upswing again? In view of the upswing in the mineral sector in Malaysia, we must endeavor to close this talent gap.
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Q
What is your suggestion to the Ministry of Education to close the gap in this field? We must enhance the practical aspect in the field of mineral science education. In this respect, it would be good if large mining companies could set up specific mining schools in Malaysia; in collaboration with famous mining and geology schools such as Curtin, McGill, Colorado School of Mines, Geology University of Beijing; and to provide mining and geological training to both undergraduates and post graduates. The operating mines can then be used as a practical training ground for the various aspects of the industry from exploration to mining, mineral dressing and metallurgy. Scholarships can be provided by the industryto excellent students.
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Geologist at work Better still, if he/she is entrepreneurial he/she may be able to identify mineral deposits and start their own businesses.
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Q
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What is your personal take on Lynas and Rare Earth? What is fact and what is myth? With so many conflicting views circulating in the media, the layman would appreciate the honest viewpoint from a specialist.
Why did these companies come to Malaysia? Does their presence benefit Malaysia, economically speaking?
Rare Earth is a collective name chemists gave to a group of 17 metallic elements which have specific chemical and physical characteristics. It is not “earth” as perceived by the name, and it is not rare too, the occurrence of rare earth group of elements (REE) is more than tin or copper in the Earth’s crust.
The Lynas rare earth mine located in West Australia is very far from the coast. If Lynas were to set up their extraction plant at the mine site, they have to transport the acid (extraction solvent) from the suppliers in the cities to the mine site, and then transport the finished product back to the coast to be shipped to the end user (Japan). Both overland transport and labor costs are high in Australia.
Q
Rare Earths constitute 17 out of 37 elements in the earth that had been identified as New Technology Metals (NTM). Example of the usage of rare earth elements is in the manufacture of super magnets, which is critical in the manufacture of hybrid cars, smart phones and high speed maglev trains.
Rare earth metals are not radioactive.
I believe Lynas came to Malaysia because of logistic economics.
West Malaysia is strategic in that the industrial zone is next to the port, we are near to the end user, and we have an acid plant right there in the same industrial park! For Lynas it would cost far much less to ship the ore concentrate amounting to about just 30,000 tons per year from West Australia to Malaysia than to process the ore on site.
Rare earth metals do not occur naturally in the earth’s crust, but come in the form of compound in minerals such as monazite, xenotime. Rare earth elements are extracted from these minerals through a leaching process which is what Lynas is doing in Malaysia. The mineral that carries rare earth element contains thorium (Th) which is mildly radioactive. After the extraction of the rare earth elements, the residue of thorium oxide could be contained in concrete containers. The residual radiation is very mild as compared to radiation from uranium in the nuclear reactor cells; and can be easily contained. 15
COVER STORY
With the successful operation of Lynas, Malaysia will join 6 other nations (China, USA, Japan, India, France and Germany) as producer of rare earth elements. With the presence of a refining plant right within our country, our own rare earth resources may be developed as an upstream industry to rival China, which currently controls almost 92% of the rare earth supply in the World. Since rare earth elements are the New Technology Metals of the future, the development of our very own rare earth resources will benefit our economy tremendously.
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Q
What is your advice for graduates and post-graduates who are interested in joining the mining sector? What do you need to do well? Be knowledgeable. Mining is an exact science so there is no guess work. Keep learning and enhancing your knowledge, not just your specific field, but also related fields. Mining bosses prefer well rounded staff. For example, if you are a geologist, you must have an in-depth knowledge in the geology of ore deposits. At the same time, you must acquire working knowledge about mining engineering (how the ore deposit found by you can be mined) and mineral processing (how the minerals can be extracted from the ore mined).
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...it will be good if large mining companies could set up specific mining schools in Malaysia; in collaboration with famous mining and geology schools such as Curtin, McGill, Colorado School of Mines, Geology University of Beijing; and to provide mining and geological training to both undergraduates and post graduates.
COVER STORY
15
Q
And you clearly walk your talk. Though trained as a subject expert in mining, you’re remarkably well-versed in a diverse range of fields and subjects. Can you share how being an all-rounder has helped you get ahead in your career? My comprehensive knowledge in the field of mining enabled me to translate mineral content grades into dollar and cents. By comparing with the localised unit mining costs and the corresponding processing costs, I was able to identify viable mineral deposits very quickly.
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Q
What would you consider careerchanging milestones in your life? In 1987 I decided to leave employment. Without the technical and financial support of a large mining corporation, I had to handle every aspect of mining on a hands-on basis. The episode taught me that being knowledgeable in geology alone was not sufficient to be a miner! I was then forced to learn to be an all-rounder.
At the same time, I learned the skill of negotiation and corporate governance including the all-important financial analysis and contract laws. All these important aspects of management gained me headway in my career.
On a personal note, do you have any favourite quotes that are your source of inspiration? “Sunrise always follows Sunset” “Be Specific” “ 1 + 1 equals to only 1.7. Be prepared to share your profit”
to contact Mr.Sia: hksia@malaco.com.my 17
HIGHLIGHTS
www.misi.edu.my
THE CHALLENGES OF SUPPLY CHAIN TALENT MANAGEMENT Postgraduate Studies MEB speaks to Dr Ioannis Lagoudis & Dr Albert Tan about the challenges of supply chain talent management (finding and keeping talents for the industry.) Tell us what your profession now is. What do you do? I am Assistant Professor at the Malaysian Institute for Supply Chain Innovation specializing in transportation logistics and supply chain management. I am also the Director of Applied Research.
I am an associate professor in MISI and beside teaching and research; I am also the director for education looking after the graduate program, exchange program with overseas universities, executive program and curriculum development. 18
HIGHLIGHTS
Dr. Albert Tan
Dr. Ioannis Lagoudis
Tell us your brief background. What did you do previously? (research?) I hold a first degree in Economics from the National and Capodistrian University of Athens, M.Sc. and Ph.D. in transport logistics from Cardiff Business School and Post-Doctoral Degree in Port Logistics from the University of the Aegean. Prior to joining the Malaysian Institute for Supply Chain Innovation I worked in industry as a consultant and in academia teaching Shipping Management, Strategic Management and Decision Making and Modeling at the University of Aegean, the Hellenic Open University and U21 Global in Singapore. I was an Associate Director in National University of Singapore managing the Double Master program in Supply Chain Management as well as teaching IT management programs in one of the institute. Previously, I was working as Director in a government agency in Singapore responsible for upgrading the IT capability of the manufacturing and logistics industries. This involved planning and evaluating e-Commerce solutions for the chemical and logistics industries. I have also provided numerous BPR and ERP consulting for both discrete and process environment in Asia to streamline their supply chain while working in Oracle systems.
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HIGHLIGHTS
What is the main thesis of your doctorate paper? My PhD thesis focuses on identifying
A decision model for managing reverse
value in maritime transport operations.
logistics operations in the computer
In the thesis a number of processes
industry – objective is to examine
are identified related to maritime
various economic factors to make
operations and these are assessed in order to identify
reverse logistics operations a profitable business.
their importance and value (not necessarily monetary) for maritime companies.
How did you choose the research topic? The maritime and transportation industry in general even today are considered as a non-value adding activity within the supply chain management concept since no product transformation activity takes place. Back in the mid 90s this idea was prevailing even more and I thought it would be a challenge to prove that transportation is a significant link to the supply chain strategies adopted by companies and thus some value is created. In the late 1990’s, research in reverse logistics is very minimal as compared to the forward distribution and supply chain. Therefore, I work closely with a professor who has keen interest in reverse logistics to build models that can help to deepen the knowledge in this field and identify potential ideas for industry to apply or adopt.
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....I thought it would be a challenge to prove that transportation is a significant link to the supply chain strategies adopted by companies and thus some value is created.
HIGHLIGHTS
for more information contact www.misi.edu.my
SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT What do you find most challenging about Supply chain management? One of the biggest challenges is the fact that one needs to coordinate numerous activities, which span around the globe and are exposed to high variability and uncertainty. Coming from a transportation background I can reassure you that the “simple� process of moving goods globally is exposed to significant variability stemming from adverse weather conditions, breakdowns to strikes etc. Overcoming all these uncertainties is a
How is supply chain relevant to your work today? At research level we have number of supply chain initiatives, which relate to different supply chains. Here in Malaysia and in the wider ASEAN region we have identified a number of problems, which relate to niche supply chains such as Halal, Dangerous Goods, and Cold etc. With the cooperation of our industry partners we try to solve a number of problems that relate to supply chain operations and we try to minimize the level of complexity and uncertainty involved.
great challenge and not always straight forward. Managing suppliers and customers is the most challenging task as compared to managing resources within an organization due to differences in objectives and expectations between them and the organization. Mutual trust takes a long time to build especially in Asia and thus additional controls are built to ensure quality service and products. Additional layers for check and balances are built at the interface between the supply chain members, resulting in additional costs and
Supply chain is not limited to goods only and can be applicable to service supply chain. I am involved in a number of researches on service outsourcing and it helps me to understand the importance of drafting a contract that is able to protect the consumer in the event of dispute. MISI has outsourced a number of services to vendor and these service supply chains are critical to ensure we are able to deliver consistent and reliable services to our students and customers.
unnecessary delays.
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HIGHLIGHTS
What are the supply chain challenges/concerns
What are some strategies to attract new pool
in a multinational corporation?
of talent to supply chain management? (To the company and the industry)
(Supply-demand disruptions? Low profit?) I am not really sure from
My understanding is that apart from
where one should begin. The fact
the financial incentives probably, most
that modern multinational supply
important when attracting new talent
chain strategies practically mean global presence and
is that the job should offer challenges
operations one can understand the level of complexity
and significant opportunities for evolution within the
at all levels from top and bottom. I could list just a
company. Our experience shows that applicants weight
few among the many being cultural, production, FX,
the latter two variables more.
transportation, quality, financial etc. Some organizations have management With economic uncertainty in Europe and
trainee program to attract them into
the USA, it is a key concern for MNC to
their companies with potential for them
ensure business sustainability. These
to accelerate the career development.
MNCs are evaluating various options to
Others have promised new comers exciting roles and
expand their market overseas to increase their revenues
responsibilities to prove their capabilities before sending
and to reduce their supply chain costs to maintain their
them overseas to start new operations.
profit margins. At the industry level, supply chain management should be positioned not as sweatshop job but as a professional Where there is a short supply of talented
job with strong emphasize on analytical and soft skills.
workforce in the country, how does an organization acquire key talent? Are they any strategies in retaining talents? I would start by saying that there is a lack of SCM talent globally with ASIA lagging
Offering new challenges to employees
behind I could say. Acquisition of such
along with showing them that they
talent is one of the biggest challenges
can climb the “ladder of hierarchy”.
that Global HR Heads are facing at the moment. I guess
The offering of continuous education
that one the key sources of finding this talent is via
opportunities to employees is also a
academia. MISI being under the MIT-SCALE network
strategy that works. Financial incentives should not be
offers great opportunities for companies to that extent.
excluded……
Some organizations have sponsored
Supply chain professionals are given
some of their non-supply chain staffs
ample opportunities to work in different
to do a conversion program to become
capacities to understand the entire
supply chain executives while others
supply chain. From sourcing to planning
have offer scholarships for full time students in supply
to distribution and transportation. These scopes will
chain management.
allow them to widen their knowledge and later expand their portfolio or role to manage their internal staffs.
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HIGHLIGHTS
for more information contact www.misi.edu.my
GLOBAL THOUGHT LEADERSHIP Who should apply MSCM? Anyone with high goals and aspirations in solving complex global problems
Offering new challenges to employees along with showing them that they can climb the “ladder of hierarchy�.
regardless of his/her background should apply for such a Program. The reason that ones background should not restrain him/her from attending such a course is that this year we have a lawyer on board and I can reassure you that he excelling. Those who are analytical and have a passion for supply chain or logistics management should be encouraged to apply for MSCM. Those who have a few years of experience will be ideal, as this course would assume some basic background of businesses that are lacking from freshmen.
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HIGHLIGHTS
What are the career prospects of a MSCM holder?
What is the overall outlook for the market in this region?
Probably among the best globally. The importance of the role of the
Asia is the place to be. The prospects
supply chain manager is increasing at
in Asia probably far better compared to
a constant pace. Companies having
the rest of the world today and for many
realized this assign higher executive
years to come. The opening of new
positions to SCM people involving them more and more
markets and political developments such as the ASEAN
at strategic level decision-making stages.
community offer significant opportunities for those who want to stay in the area.
Generally, based on the job profiles from MIT SCM alums, most of the
The outline for job market in supply chain
students will end up working for
management is promising as there is
consulting companies as a consultant,
still a shortage of these professionals in
in manufacturing or logistics companies as a business
Asia. Some of the existing supply chain
analyst or in software companies as an IT consultant.
professionals are not trained in this field while other companies are outsourcing parts of the supply chain due
Do they stand a better chance for Asia/ this
to a lack of expertise in their organizations. In fact, more
region exposure?
organizations are seeing the important role of supply chain management to integrate the different functions in
In a recent round table at MIT where the
order to deliver reliable services to their customers.
discussion was on SCM talent the lack of skilled and qualified personnel in Asia was rather evident. HR VPs from over 30 multinationals who participated in this event shared exactly the same concern on how and where to acquire and retain SCM personnel that will be able to meet the needs in Asia and serve the global strategies they try to implement. Yes, they will stand a better chance with Asia exposure since most of the training will be referring to Asia for discussion as Asia is growing economically. Most of our existing students are from Asia and thus will be able to interact well in class discussions.
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The importance of the role of the supply chain manager is increasing at a constant pace.
HIGHLIGHTS
What is MISI strategy?
What is your advice to students who are
(Academic-industry synergy?)
interested in MSCM?
MISI is committed to reshaping the
Go for it! The future belongs to those
conduct and content of education,
who dare new innovative things!
research and business at global level to create and promote a culture of Value Driven Innovation, which is an integral part of all our processes, practices, methodologies and thinking co-
With a positive job outlook for supply
created with our stakeholders.
chain professionals in Asia, those who are keen to pursue their career in this
In order to achieve the above mission we have three key
field should apply for MSCM and widen
pillars of activities:
their knowledge .The current CEO of Apple was the
i. Education – we offer full-time and part-time MSc
ex-chief Supply Chain Officer before he was appointed
programs on Supply Chain Management following
the CEO. That shows how importance supply chain probably the best curriculum on SCM used by MIT-CTL. management skills are today in an organization. ii. Executive Training – we offer customized in-house
training programs in order executives across different
industries to be educated and become aware on
What is your motto? What inspires
modern supply chain management practices
you?
iii. Research – we partner with industry to conduct
high quality research on supply chain management
problems. The involvement of about 16 companies
today via our thesis program is among the partnering
Innovate! Think Big! Think Supply Chain!
initiatives.
Everyday we are faced with logistics and supply chain issues and it has MISI strategy ensures a win-win
been fortunate for me to apply some of
relationship with industry. MISI conducts
the supply chain management tools to
applied research to solve industry issues
solve these issues. From scheduling, planning events
while industry will learn from MISI to
to negotiating with dealers, I have been able to benefit
improve and streamline their supply chain.
from these tools to achieve my personal goals and satisfaction.
It is a reinforcing loop to gain knowledge from industry and impart new knowledge back to industry to improve their supply chain. for more information contact www.misi.edu.my
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ANNOUNCEMENT
STAR OUTSTANDING BUSINESS AWARDS 2012 PKT Logistics Group Sdn. Bhd.
P
KT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd (PKT Logistics), has excelled in the past years with the vision
Dato’ Michael Tio with all the 5 awards
to be the leading logistics company in the country. From the humble beginnings of
being a custom broker back in 1974 to a total logistics solution company today, PKT Logistics stands strongly on a 17 acre land along KESAS Highway. With their commitment in the industry, it was of no surprise that they were awarded 5 awards at the recent Star Outstanding Business Awards 2012. Recognized as the Grand Winner for the Business of the Year Award,
Dato’ Michael & Datin May with the adopted staff
Best in CSR Award(Silver), Best Employer Award(Silver) & Best Green Initiatives(Gold) has reaffirmed its presence in the industry thus allowing its customers to have total peace of mind with their logistics need. To add to their success, PKT Logistics Chief Executive & MD was also awarded the Grand Winner for the Entrepreneur of the Year Award. He was quoted in The Star by saying, “Communication was a key factor
Best Employer Award
Grand Winner - Business of the Year Award
needed to survive in today’s business environment. A lot of companies bar Facebook at work, which is not the right move. We are a Facebook-compulsory company, meaning the whole organisation uses Facebook. I take pride in saying that the response time between myself and my staff is 30 seconds,” Dato’ Michael philosophy is Dream of It, Talk about It, Plan for It, Work on It and Get It is what keeps us moving forward with success.
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Dato Michael and his Uni mates.
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HIGHLIGHTS
WORLD CLASS INSTITUTIONS AT FACON EDUCATION FAIR!
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T
he ever popular Facon Education Fair is back in March 2013 with more than 500 booths set up by institutions of higher learning. The fair is endorsed by Ministry of Education and Ministry of Higher Education in recognition of its success and contribution to the education industry. The fair also covered 11 cities in Peninsula & East Malaysia where school leavers and working adults have a unique opportunity to meet with 1,000 renowned institutions from Malaysia and overseas.
HIGHLIGHTS
Since its inception in 1990, this prestigious event has been attended by millions of visitors underlining its popularity and public recognition for its success and contributions to human resources development and the education industry. Facon Education Fair will be back in December 2013 and the dates and venues are as follows:
Peninsula Malaysia Kuala Lumpur Alor Setar Penang Ipoh Malacca Johor Bahru
Dec 7 & 8, 2013 (Sat & Sun) Dec 10, 2013 (Tue) Dec 11, 2013 (Wed) Dec 12, 2013 (Thu) Dec 13, 2013 (Fri) Dec 14 & 15, 2013 (Sat & Sun)
Putra World Trade Centre (Hall 3 & 4) Holiday Villa Hotel Traders Hotel Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites Equatorial Hotel Persada Johor Intl’ Convention Centre
Dec 7, 2013 (Sat) Dec 8, 2013 (Sun) Dec 9, 2013 (Mon) Dec 13, 2013 (Fri) Dec 14, 2013 (Sat) Dec 15, 2013 (Sun)
Grand Palace Hotel Riverside Majestic Hotel RH Hotel Sandakan Hotel Promenade Hotel MB Hotel
East Malaysia Miri Kuching Sibu Sandakan Kota Kinabalu Tawau
For more information on Facon Education Fair please visit www.faconex.com or follow us on facebook, www.facebook.com/faconeducationfair. 29
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FEATURING
Press Release: 1 November 2012
STUDENT LEADER AND HIGH ACHIEVER MAKES INSPIRING SPEECH AT GRADUATION
S
unway University’s 517 graduates from the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Science and Technology and the Sunway University Business School received their scrolls in
a ceremony graced by the Chancellor of Lancaster University, Sir Christian Bonington. The graduates each received two scrolls, one from Sunway and one from Lancaster University, a Top 10 UK university that validates Sunway University’s home-grown degrees in Information Systems, Information Technology, Computer Science, Psychology, Business Management, Business Studies and Accounting and Finance. Valedictorian Candy Lee Ker Ching, a first class honours graduate in B.Sc (Hons) Accounting and Finance, spoke candidly how she had initially studied pharmacy but decided to switch to accounting and finance. She said “With plenty of uncertainties, I took the courage to leave and embarked on a journey in accounting. It was challenging in the beginning, but the only thing that carried me through were faith and perseverance”. Lee added “Looking back, following my heart and instincts was the best decision I ever made” she said. She urged her fellow graduates to have the courage to take charge of their own destiny; the path of their own and not others. “Find where your passion lies and strive for what you truly love” she shared.
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Candy Lee received her scroll from Sir Christian Bonington, Chancellor of Lancaster University
FEATURING
Lee thanked Sunway University for providing avenues in which to build critical minds and intellectual abilities. She spoke of her experience when she visited Lancaster University as a student ambassador to discuss the Sunway-Lancaster Summer Programme in 2011 when it was launched for the first time. Lee was President of the Sunway University Accounting Society and was co-founder and advisor of the SIFE Sunway which was entrusted with the mission of providing economic opportunities to societies in need. Lee is currently employed in GE Global Operations in their Financial Management Programme.
Jubilant Bachelor of Science (Hons) Psychology graduates. L to R Rachel Kang Zhi Kone, Ang Ying Fen, June Goh Cui Lynn, Yap Jing Min and Ong Sue May.
This is Sunway University’s 6th graduation ceremony in which it has conferred degrees. Sunway University is part of the Sunway Education Group which is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year. In his speech the Chancellor of Sunway University Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah said “Our commitment to excellence is reaffirmed this year and it stems from our belief that education provides the foundation for an accomplished nation and it is this belief that drives our determination in providing education of the highest quality. He also welcomed Sunway University’s new Vice-Chancellor Professor Graeme Candy Lee receiving her Sunway University scroll from Chancellor Tan Sri Dr Jeffrey Cheah
Wilkinson, an Oxford-trained scientist and added “We will continue to work to lead the way in shaping the educational landscape for future generations”.
Graduating students welcoming the stage party
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FEATURING
Press Release:
MALAYSIA’S NEW HUB OF NANOCOMPUTING TECHNOLOGY
YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, the Minister of Higher Education (“MOHE”).
Minister of Higher Education Launched Malaysia’s First University to Specialise in Computer Science And Engineering
C
yberjaya, 31st January 2013 - Universiti Malaysia of Computer Science and Engineering (“UniMy”), the country’s first boutique university devoted to providing
specialised computer science and engineering education was today launched by YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, the Minister of Higher Education (“MOHE”). UniMy is established in line with the roadmap of the Higher Education Transformation Programme under the New Economic Model, to produce market ready computing professionals and talents as demanded by industry players. According to a study by
“Tasked to bridge the gap between demand and supply
Multimedia Development Corporation, Malaysia’s
for highly skilled IT personnel and professionally trained
demand for IT graduates will experience an annual
graduates in the next 10 years, UniMy takes a new
growth rate of 18.6% between 2010 and 2013 against
approach in higher education by creating a ‘best of breed’
a supply growth of only 2.7%1. Data and projections
ecosystem working in partnership with global technology
show that computing technology will account for
companies including Microsoft, IBM, EC Council,
two-thirds of all job growth in all fields of science
Dell, Huawei and Autodesk”, said Professor
and technology in the future.
Datuk Dr. Halimaton Hamdan, Vice Chancellor of UniMy
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FEATURING
Committed to adopting high quality assurance, UniMy
In a bid to further distinguish itself from other universities
has signed Collaboration Agreement with University of
and IT disciplines, UniMy has a unique faculty to
Melbourne (UNIMELB), Australia’s top university.
student ratio of 1:10 with a maximum capacity to take in 3,000students. Small and personal, focused and
The agreement with the UNIMELB is through its
specialised, UniMy targets the best brains to train in
Melbourne School of Engineering.
computer science, software and hardware development.
UNIMELB is the No.1 University in Australia with a
UniMy offers an integrated 1+3+1 Computer Science
formidable reputation in IT, Computer Science and
and Engineering programme starting from Foundation,
Engineering. According to QS World University Rankings,
Bachelor of Science and Master of Science. The first
UNIMELB ranked fourth in the world for graduate
enrolment for Foundation Studies is expected to begin
employability. UNIMELB’s Bachelor of Science degree
in May while enrolment for Undergraduate Programmes
was the first software engineering degree fully accredited
is scheduled in September 2013. Two undergraduate
by the Institute of Engineers, Australia in 1996, and is one
programmes, namely Bachelor of Science in
of the first professionally accredited software engineering
Computer Science and Bachelor of Science in
degrees at the undergraduate level in the world.
Software Engineering are available and admissions to
The potential area of collaboration includes the adoption
the degree programmes are also open for registration to
of the quality control, academic board processes and
candidates with A-level, STPM, and diploma or equivalent
external examination. The intended collaboration will also
qualifications. The university also offers Professional
be extended to the development of the faculty members,
Certificate for Microsoft, IBM, Autodesk, EC Council
learning space and the Innovation and Commercialisation
and Huawei programmes, to graduates to increase their
Centre.
marketability and employability.
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FEATURING
In helping to shape the world through education, the university will also establish an Innovation and Commercialisation Centre (IC2) that will be modelled after renowned research labs such as XeroxPalo Alto and MIT Media Lab. It will showcase the ‘best of breed’ outputs and aims to be the world’s leader in multidisciplinary and intensive application of Computer Science in National ICT Focus Areas. IC2 will serve as a communication platform to culminate ideas, people and funding, all under one roof. At present, UniMy operates from a temporary campus in Cyberjaya within the Multimedia Super Corridor, while plans are underway for its permanent campus to be built within Cyberjaya City Centre and to be completed by 2016.
Malaysia’s Hub of Nanocomputing Technology In pursuit to be the new hub of Nanocomputing technology, UniMy will form a user-centred environment to assist computational scientist in their research, whereby the challenge is to combine theory, algorithms, simulations, high-performance computing infrastructures, molecular modelling and user interaction into one system that enables exploratory science at the nanoscale. IBM will work with UniMy in this project to define a training programme in computer modelling of nanomaterials and provide training for UniMy post-doctoral researchers at IBM research facilities.
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FEATURING
About Universiti Malaysia of Computer Science and Engineering (www.unimy.edu.my) Prestariang Education Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Main Market listed Prestariang Berhad, established UniMy in 2012. It is a privately run university located in Cyberjaya, Malaysia. The University is classified as a more selective institution by the Ministry of Higher Education in Malaysia, devoted to providing specialised computer science and engineering education in the country. The University is designed towards creating computing professionals and talent in an effort to sustain Malaysia’s economic success to produce market-ready computing professionals and talent which is in line with the New Economic Model and Higher Education Transformation Programme initiated by Malaysian government in 2011.
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38
39
INTERVIEWS
azita@plus.uemnet.com
Sr Azita Mohamed Tahir Head of Works Procurement Department, Projek Lebuhraya Usahasama Berhad (PLUS)
Why made you want to study an MBA?
University : Currently pursuing Victoria
Being in a corporate world and trained as a quantity surveyor
University MBA (VUMBA) at Sunway; I hold
and an arbitrator, I feel like I need to equip myself with better
a BSc (Hons) in Quantity Surveying from
management skills. By doing MBA, I find that I can relate to
Salford University, UK and a Postgraduate
my work better, enhance my working relationship with my staff,
Diploma in Arbitration from the College of
colleague and superiors and more importantly better understand
Estate Management , UK.
what is required of me in my Company. It also feels satisfying, being able to understand and apply the knowledge and skills that I
Brief Job Description : I currently head
have learned.
the Works Procurement Department that looks after all the procurement and contract
What inspires you?
administration needs for all the expressways
Pursuit of knowledge. Learning is a never ending process. I like
under PLUS Berhad such as the PLUS’
to learn new things and skills. The satisfaction comes from being
North-South Expressways, the New Klang
able to apply the knowledge and skills, and to be able to share
Valley Expressways, the Federal Highway
and educate what I have learnt along the way, with friends and
Route 2, the ELITE Expressways, LINKEDUA,
colleagues.
Butterworth-Kulim Expressways (BKE) and the Penang Bridge.
Favorite Quote
When there’s a will, there’s always a way..
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Learning is a never ending process.
INTERVIEWS
Chong Meng Kiong Assistant Vice President, Alliance Bank University : Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
Brief Job Description My role is to help grow the businesses thru’ initiatives such as analyze the information available to develop constructive and structural way to increase sales via series of campaigns launched. Besides that, I constantly involve in project management such as new system development (CRM). Others such as developing and tracking sales achievement via balance scorecard, “stress-test” business model to ensure sales target is achievable, development of sales tools to help business to manage their portfolio and re-engineer existing business processes through segmentation models. On annual basis, I’ll involve in developing sales strategies and segmentation deck for business review.
What do you consider the best take away value from your MBA? The course covers are pretty comprehensive, where it can be used in any line of industry. It covers areas such as operation process, research methodology, project management skills, entrepreneurship and managing organization behaviour. It is a very practical mode of study, where we hope these are able to add value to our current job and also possible future career.
What is your advice to prospective MBA student to prepare them for the MBA? I would strongly recommend to anyone who wishes for career development or for self-interest such as setting up own business to pursue higher qualifications i.e MBA. It is a good exposure and with additional knowledge, it will definitely help you in various ways.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Basically, this MBA course will help me in terms of managing the work and managing expectations of people in the company. With the knowledge, we can even help the company in achieving its mission in different views, ie the forecasting methodology used in the company may not be suitable. With the understanding through MBA, options of forecasting methodology are taught and research/literature review done. This will help the company as well as individual for the efforts and contribution. After MBA course, the next thing I would plan is, to fully utilize the knowledge into my work expertise. There is no need to change job if the company recognize the effort of the individual that has put in and recognize the real usage of MBA.
What is your motto in life? I personally have 3 principles in life. First, always do things the right way, the easiest way, the efficient way and the simplest way of all. Secondly, always try doing things differently and learning most out of it. Thirdly, never restrict to own boundary. Always be helpful, diversified work to continuously improve own self. Like Gandhi say before “Almost anything good you do will seem insignificant, but it is very important that you do it”
41
INTERVIEWS
Massuhaella Binti Mohd Idris
Senior Financial Executive (BancAssurance), Public Bank Berhad
What do you consider the best take away value from your postgraduate programme? This course is all about communication and it is really interesting where we learnt communication more deepen and broadly. This course was under Faculty of Creative Industry (FCI). The class was lively and we are free to giving our opinions and sharing thoughts. The educators are so experienced.
What is your advice to prospective postgraduate student to prepare them for this programme? My advice to those who are wishing to further master, once you have think of it, you must go for it. The choice is in your hands. Especially to those who want to further in Master of Communication, I just want to congratulate you that you just made a brilliant decisions. Some people might say that there is no point to further Master if you don’t have any working experience. For me, people are made with different kind of luck and fortune, don’t bother about what people said, just think of what you aim and need that is the most important.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I wish to further my PhD after I’m completed my Master. My hope is I wish that I would get a bright future in my career and whatever things that I do. In future, I also hope that I can contribute what I had learnt now to my beloved country, Malaysia.
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Current University: Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (Master of Communication) Brief Job Description : My responsibilities are: • To sell and promote Bancassurance
products (One Solution Product).
• Provide personal financial advisory services. • Identify customer segments for new sales. • Build customer relationship to up-sell and
cross-selling banking products.
What is your motto in life?
Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. Herman Cain
INTERVIEWS
12064192@imail.sunway.edu.my
Chua Yu Kiat Business Development Manager University :
What made you want to study an MBA?
Victoria University MBA (VUMBA) at Sunway;
My current business development role requires me to have sound
University of Sheffield Bachelors in Engineering
comprehension on the overall business operations. I felt that I lacked the insights of the bigger picture from my past working
Brief Job Description I work for a South African engineering company with proprietary technology in the manufacturing of insulation oil process equipment. My responsibility is to help the company set up an assembly operation in Malaysia. I work closely with both the technical manager and operations manager to oversee the whole assembly process, from production planning to logistics and supply chain management. On the marketing aspect, my key role includes liaising with government authorities for licenses and trade incentives, planning for marketing activities, organizing
experiences having much focused on the daily operations and
exhibitions and growing channel sales.
are a large number of students with diverse background and
little on business processes and strategies. From this I hope to acquire in-depth business knowledge such as accounting, financial analysis, marketing, supply chain, human resources and strategic management. This would help me in advising the management when it comes to identifying market demand, assessing opportunity costs and applying best practices in the business. I also wanted to study an MBA to network with other like-minded people. All the students have one common objective which is to improve themselves by earning an MBA qualification. There experiences to network with in the course, not to mention past alumni students. It is just interesting to make some new friends
Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal. ~ Henry Ford
and exchange ideas.
What inspires you? People who overcome adversity with a positive attitude inspire me. I admire people who have the courage to continue pursuing what they believe in in spite of all the obstacles along the way.
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INTERVIEWS
cheangwaileong@hotmail.com
Cheang Wai Leong Fund Transfer Pricing Analyst, Alliance Bank Malaysia Berhad
Throughout my experience in VUMBA, I have enhanced my
Current University: Victoria University
personal values mainly to be a good team player, to be more
MBA (VUMBA) at Sunway
self-discipline and to apply what I had learnt in my current job as a Fund Transfer Pricing (FTP) Analyst. As an FTP analyst, I am the
Graduated from: Monash University
key coordinator with treasury, information system and business department for various projects involving FTP rates (internal interest rates or cost of funding) within the bank itself. The major motivation for me to further my studies in MBA is to enhance my knowledge in other area (eg. ERP SAP system, Business Economics, Financial Analysis, Project Management, Supply Chain and Logistic, etc) apart from my current work experience so as to provide ample opportunity in enhancing my career to the next level. Furthermore, VUMBA covers both technical and analytical assignments and research papers which further enhance my reading and research skills in other area of studies. With most of the classes being held in the weekends, I can rest assure my enrolment to VUMBA will not affect my usual work in any manner. Moreover, both Australian lecturers and local tutors are helpful and can be reached easily, thus, I am able to get consultation and to solve my problems with them easily. Apart from study, I am impressed with the activities organized by the VUMBA Club catered to all VUMBA students as well. Through this club, I am able to enhance my network and to learn to be an event organizer. 44
All in all, I am proud to be a student of VUMBA and my favourite quote for VUMBA is “Let’s Grow Together With VUMBA”.
BUSINESS SEGMENT Profiles of Extraordinary People
SUBSTANCE, RELEVANCE, SIGNIFICANCE
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
By Alexandra Wong
PEOPLE POWER F
rom an unconventional PC startup founded on $1,000 and a game-changing vision for how technology should be designed, Dell, Inc. has transformed into a global end-to-end solutions
partner driven by innovation and customer focus. In Malaysia, where its presence is felt in three sites - Dell Global Business Center (Cyberjaya), Simon Wong Technology Centre (Penang) and Asia Pacific Customer Center 2 (Bukit Tengah) - the multinational corporation regularly ranks as one of the region’s most desirable employers. In this issue of MBA Postgraduate, we speak to Shankar
Postgraduate Studies MEB speaks to Mr Shankar Nagalingam about the challenges of finding and keeping talents for IT industry.
46
Nagalingam, Dell Malaysia’s Country Human Resources Director for Malaysia and South Asia Developing Markets, on a range of HR issues, including what it takes to secure a coveted job in the company.
BUSINESS SEGMENT
Mr Shankar Nagalingam Country Human Resources Director of DELL Malaysia and South Asia Developing Markets Currently the Country Human Resources Director for Malaysia and South Asia Developing Markets, Shankar Nagalingam has served more than 19 years in the Multinational Corporations within the Human Resources profession. During his nine-year tenure in Dell, Shankar has held key HR positions e.g. Director of Talent Acquisition for South Asia/ANZ and HR Business Partner leading Malaysia Services and Technical Support
Contact Center Operation, Asia Sales Organization and Global Business Operations and Marketing, where he strategized effective and efficient implementation of HR policies and procedures across the organization, played mentor to organization leaders and built strategic alliance with key business leaders across the globe. Prior to Dell, Shankar was attached to Komag USA (Malaysia) for 10 years leading the Staffing organization.
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
1
Q
Your tertiary degree was in Education, but you made a switch to the manufacturing sector 1 1/2 years after your first posting. Why did you switch careers and how did you adapt to a radically different environment? During my first posting as a secondary school teacher in Kulim, I witnessed some friends growth in the corporate world. The manufacturing sector was becoming very robust then, and I longed to be part of that exciting growth. As this was during the economic crisis and jobs were extremely limited, I sent more than a hundred applications before being accepted by Komag as an entry level staffing executive. I chose HR because I believe this is one area you can make a difference to people. Going from a structured environment into a manufacturing environment was a huge change. The speed is much faster. You have to be always on your toes. You need to be versatile. Even though I was in Staffing, I was expected to get involved in every aspect of the organization whether it’s employee relations, market intelligence, salary preparation etc. You could say I was a Jack of all trades in HR. It was a very tough environment but it was an invaluable learning environment. I had very good support and coaching from my manager, Ismail Abdul Rahim.
Q
2
You had zero manufacturing or HR experience, yet your employer hired you for a challenging position. What did he see in you? My manager, Ismail told me he wanted somebody who was hungry to work and to learn. If I was open to learning, he was willing to invest his effort and energy to guide and coach me. I learnt that experience was good-to-have but not compulsory.
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
Even though I was in HR, I was expected to get involved in every aspect of the organization whether it’s employee relations, market intelligence, salary preparation etc.
Q
3
How has the employment scenario changed today? To put it bluntly, what would it take to land a job in Dell? With rapid globalization, the whole platform has changed. One of the key things we look for is the ability to think global. It’s so important for even fresh graduates to know what’s happening in US, Europe, APJ and your ability to communicate and influence your team members in different parts of the world. In Dell Cyberjaya, most of the roles are global in nature, reflecting the transformation the company has undergone. You have fresh graduates communicating with customers in US, Australia, etc. In this globalized new world, having self-confidence and boldness in articulating your thought processes is going to be very important because our job value chain has moved up from manufacturing-centric to services-oriented. Adaptability is also critical because in any robust organization like Dell, there’s going to be change. Today, you may do something and believe that this is the best decision you can make. One week down the road, something may change, and while that was the best decision then and you made the right decision then, now everything has to change, and you need to get accustomed to it. You cannot feel frustrated or go into a victim mentality. You need to have that level of ambiguity to survive in the globalized world. You need to be intuitive to navigate your way in the corporate world – yes, it’s getting extremely competitive out there. As part of our CSR, we actively collaborate with academic institutions in Southeast Asia to share real-world industry knowledge.
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
One thing hasn’t changed, though. You still need that hunger for continuous improvement. Regard every day as a learning opportunity. In everything that you do, how can you look at things differently? Always do that to add value not only to yourself but to the processes and organizations that you support.
4
Q
In your two decades of industry experience, what are the biggest challenges within the HR profession? In my opinion, recruiting and hiring the best talent for the organization, followed closely by developing and retaining key talents would be an ongoing cycle for most organizations. Globalization - where you manage a diversified background of team members - is another key factor.
5
Q
IT is an intensely competitive industry with a fierce war for talent. What are Dell’s strategies to acquire the cream of the crop?
to contribute to the country’s talent pool by helping graduates to be more employable. When the students
With the changing environment, we have to go
interact with our acquisition team, they have very good
beyond the traditional way of hiring. For example,
customer experience and their time comes to apply for
we hardly advertise in newspapers anymore.
jobs, Dell naturally comes to mind. Ultimately, we want
Instead, we leverage social media tools like
the Dell Malaysia brand to be perceived as a Cool Place
Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter to reach out to
to Work and a Center of Excellence.
potential employees. LinkedIn is a goldmine of talent particularly in niche areas. Many “passive
That said, leaders in the most successful companies
candidates” – those who are employed but don’t
believe building their talent pool is a huge part of their
apply for a position - are open to changing jobs
job. This talent mindset cannot be relegated to HR; every
for the right opportunity.
employee must be involved in hiring and retaining the best and brightest talents possible. One strategy that
50
For any organization to attract top talent, you
has worked very well is our Employee Referral Program.
need to build a brand as the employer of choice.
We work through our brand ambassadors i.e. our own
As part of our university relations with South
employees, people who know and represent the best
East Asian academic institutes, we regularly give
values of the organization. Now if each of our 4500
talks and participate in career events. It’s not
employees brings at least 5 resumes, can you imagine
about talent hunting for Dell per se; we also want
the size of our talent bank?
BUSINESS SEGMENT
6
Q
Does an MBA candidate stand a better chance for getting into the IT industry, or Dell, for that matter? An MBA degree is always desirable to organizations be it IT or other industries. More so, if a candidate holds an MBA from an accredited University. Opportunities are varied in Dell and they can always choose their respective career pathways. Be it in HR, Accounting, Marketing, IT or Sales. A good MBA equips you with the theoretical
confidence, especially when they deal with global team
and experiential learning based on real-life
members. It makes sense. When you upgrade the skills
consulting experiences. In Dell, we offer
of the individuals, they invariably translate back to the
our people advanced learning courses -
organization.
people managers can pursue a graduateship programme with the internationally recognized Society of Business Practitioners in United Kingdom, and we also sponsor masters programmes for selected employees. When we drive these programs, we obviously want to know whether they’re effective. Based on survey outcomes, the students have definitely benefited. Their managers are happy to report that their team members have demonstrated positive changes and grown tremendously in
51
BUSINESS SEGMENT
That said, leaders in the most successful companies believe building their talent pool is a huge part of their job.
7
Q
Dell Malaysia has won a number of HR awards, including Malaysia HR Innovations Award 2012, MIHRM; Employer of Choice Grand Gold Award 2011, MIHRM and Malaysia HR Development Award 2012. In your opinion, what makes Dell such a great place to work?
Q
8
There is a close correlation between productivity and company success. What approach do you use to boost workplace productivity?
At Dell, we believe people are our greatest asset, so we pour a lot of time and effort into creating
Different employees would require different
a diverse workforce and creating a positive,
approach in encouraging productivity.
collaborative environment where everyone is valued
In Dell, we focus on empowering team
and included. From a competitive benefits package
members so that they feel more confident,
and a professional environment that fosters
capable and in control of the outcome
personal development to recreational facilities
of their work. When a team member’s
and flexi-hours, you can really have it all at Dell -
performance positively impacts the
benefits, rewards, balance.
organization, we reward and recognize that person. We encourage a culture of excellence by setting SMART i.e. Specific, Measurable, Accountable, Realistic & Timely goals that ultimately improve productivity, effectiveness and efficiency of our team members.
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
9
Q
the people managers who can foster an
How do you help your team members to achieve those goals?
environment of trust and engagement that helps
This is where the leadership component comes
all about bringing out the best in our talents so that
their team members excel. Career development is at the end of the day, customers can benefit from
in. As a leader, your role is to ask, what are
better solutions and the company can achieve
the resources a person needs to become
better results.
successful? What coaching plan do you need? Dell fosters a 70/20/10 model of development, whereby we create targeted development solutions containing tools and resources dedicated to development occurring on-the-job, learning through others, and recommended formal training to maximize your potential
10
Q
Lastly, what is your personal formula for success?
and facilitate meaningful learning. In Dell we
Let me answer by quoting an incident on my first
look at both current and future contributions.
day at work in DELL. My manager, Edmund Chew
For bottom performers, we ask how we can
asked me, “What’s your next role going to be?” I was
transform them and accelerate them in their
stunned as it was not something I was expecting to
areas of development? At the end of the day,
hear on Day 1! This experience gave me a great lesson
an employee wants to know: what is it in for
that drove me in my career, and nearly 20 years later,
me and what can you do to help me meet my
this is exactly the same kind of conversation we have
career aspiration?
at Dell. Always work on a Continuous Improvement mindset. Have the hunger to look at a problem
That was why we created the Caring Leader
differently, how to be better. When you have the
tenet in the early days of my career at Dell.
energy and passion to energize and rejuvenate people
We want to create HR professionals within
around you to excel, it will, in turn, create the aura of success that we want to cultivate in an organization.
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
1
Build a professional online profile. If you haven’t jumped on the social media bandwagon because you feel it’s only for oversharing narcissists, you may have second thoughts after hearing what Dip has to say: “Even Michael Dell is on LinkedIn. You can network and get in touch with anyone globally. LinkedIn is THE place for recruiters to sniff out talent, especially if we want to meet Gen Y candidates who are very active in social media!” Make a list of the top three companies you wanna work with, and start building your network.
2
Treat your resume like a sales tool. “How in one page would you be able to sell yourself?” asks Shankar. “It’s a branding. If I’m going to have five resumes I want to view, what is going to stand out? You need to be clear, simple, crisp, articulate exactly what your accomplishments are and what you can deliver to my organization.”
BOOST YOUR EMPLOYABILITY Dip Kang, Senior Manager Of HR Talent Acquisition & Sourcing, DELL Malaysia Eying that high-profile MNC job? What can you do to be more desirable to your dream employer? Here are some tips from Dip Kang, Senior Manager of Human Resources Talent Acquisition & Sourcing for Dell Malaysia, on how to elevate your employability quotient.
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3
Ask the right questions in a job interview. A successful interview does not just hinge on the correct answers. Dip says, “The questions they ask shows the calibre of the interviewee. Are they relevant to the industry and to the company? The right questions show that the candidate is savvy with what’s happening in the global marketplace.”
4
It’s never too early to start thinking about your ideal career. Dip shares, “We are out there in the market always looking out for new talents through our University Relation, Internship and Apprentice Programmes.” So the next time you attend a career university talk (Dell conducts this regularly), show the speaker you’ve done your homework and fire away. This is your chance to stand out from the silent majority. You can bet the recruiters are taking notes.
COVER STORY
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
DATO’ MICHAEL TIO Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director PKT Logistics Sdn Bhd One Logistics HubTM
Defining the MODERN CEO HOW A SECOND GENERATION CEO TRANSFORMED A TRADING COMPANY INTO A LOGISTIC GIANT WITH VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AND INNOVATIVE IDEAS
P
KT was established by Datuk Tio Sook Keo and was originally called Port Klang Trading in 1974. In 1996, Tio’s son Dato’ Michael Tio (PKT Group Chief Executive and Managing Director)
1
Q
Dato’ Michael Tio, please tell us briefly about the beginning of PKT. PKT Logistics was founded in 1974 by my father. We literally lived inside the office then. The
who was studying and working in Britain returned to
business started from our home in Port Klang, the
Malaysia to take over the reins of the business from
front part is the office and we stayed at the back
his father.
part. It was originally called Port Klang Trading & Holding Agency. Back then we specialised in custom clearance for cars.
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
2
Q
You studied in the UK. Tell us what you did there. In 1986 I went to the UK to study. At the same time, I was in the used car business. Starting from one to two cars a month, I exported cars to Malaysia. After my diploma education, I studied accountancy at the University of Hull. My used car business also picked up. I managed to export one or two units a month during diploma level, then at degree level the number increased. I later pursued a Masters
I usually tell this story because starting a business is tough.
degree in International Accounting from
3
Q
Reading University. things got better and the business grew. I started off What was your experience exporting the
driving the car myself to London and taking the train
first car?
back to Manchester. Later I had friends who drove
I still remember clearly when I bought my first
with me when the business grew. After completing
car. It was the Mercedes-Benz 230E I bought
my degree in Accounting in Hull, I decided to
from an old couple. At that time I didn’t know
study for my Masters degree at Reading University
how to drive a car with automatic transmission.
under Professor Christopher Nobes. I was familiar
They invited me to their house for tea to find
with his works and read his books in university. I
out why I wanted to buy the car. Finally when
completed my Masters in International Accounting.
I got into the car, I wound down the window
My education helped me in my business. I believe
and asked the couple, “Excuse me, how do you
to be a successful businessman you need a fair
drive this car?” We all had a good laugh!
understanding of accounting and finance.
I usually tell this story because starting a
I stayed in Wimbledon for another four years running
business is tough. I had to struggle in the
my used-car business. In 1995, after my wedding,
beginning. I had to drive some 500 miles from
my father asked me to take over the family business.
Manchester to London to the place where
Very quickly, I made up my mind to give up my
they did container stuffing. After my first car,
million-dollar business to come back to Malaysia.
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BUSINESS SEGMENT
4
Q
You decided close down a lucrative business in UK to come back to Malaysia in 1986. Why? At that time I was making around RM50,000 a month exporting between 20 and 30 cars a month. But I felt the used car business in UK had reached a saturation point. There were very stiff price competitions and there were many Asian dealers entering the market. My wife initially suggested that maybe we could scale down the operation. I decided to give
DATO’ MICHAEL and his father, DATO’ TIO SOOK KEO, the founder of PKT Logistics Sdn Bhd
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up the business altogether because I believed that if I wanted to be successful, I needed to be focused. So we came back to Malaysia in 1996 and I joined my father’s company as a director and took over the management of the business.
5
Q
From 1996 to 2012, for 16 years, you were at the helm of PKT. What are the strategic changes that have taken place? Firstly, we did a restructuring from a partnership to private limited company and changed the name from Port Klang Trading & Holdings to PKT Logistics. Secondly, we grew the business massively. We are more than 100 times bigger in terms of revenue than in 1996. I reckon by end of
In 2000, we JV-ed with a Korean counterpart who had a lot of Korean LCL (loose container load). We ended up handling 50 Korean agents and became the largest Korean break-bulk operator in Malaysia. For our second wave of growth, we focused on the automotive business. In 2002, Naza began the KIA CKD (complete knock-down) while Berjaya had the Hyundai CKD almost at the same time. Both their auto parts vendors introduced us to them and we started servicing them. From providing a simple custom clearance service to these vendors, we moved on to providing more and more other services to them. We explained to the vendors that we needed to grow and we moved to other brands like Mazda, Skoda, BMW, Peugeot, Volvo, and others. In total, we have 11 brands now. Today the automotive logistics business is our core competency.
2012 we will be 200 times bigger. Thirdly, we diversify our revenue. For example, we partnered with the Japanese in a JV in 1996 and with the Koreans in a JV in 2000.
6
Q
Tell us more about the diversification plans and the rationale for them. During the first wave of growth, we diversified focusing on Japan and Korea. In 1996 we signed a JV (joint-venture) with a Japanese freight forwarder but soon Malaysia faced the 1997 currency crisis. Malaysia had the assistance of the USD35 billion Miyazawa Plan from Japan instead of borrowing from the IMF and submitting to their regime. We were fortunate to have secured the Rawang to Ipoh double-track project as the subcontractor and that cushioned us throughout the recession.
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Dato’ Michael explaining how he drew the concept of the “The Wave” warehouse on a carton (the fragment now framed and hung on the wall).
7
Q
When did you build your present
retreat if anyone believed RM1billion was possible. Only
headquarters, The Ship? How did it
one lady quickly put up her hand. When asked why, she
come about?
said, “Michael always walks the talk.”
I felt we needed a third wave of growth and I
In 2008, we announced to the media that we would be
told my CFO we needed to diversify again for
spending RM120 million on one logistics hub and we
exponential growth. As a result, since 2006,
built The Ship (our headquarters) and The Wave (our
we decided to venture into warehousing as
warehouse) within three years. We devised three grand
a logical diversification strategy. We bought
visions for the company:
the present 27-acre piece of land to build our headquarters. I was with my architect, deciding
•
Wawasan 60:40 – by 2013,
what to do with the piece of land. My architect
we want to diversify our revenue and focus on
said, “Since you are in the shipping business
achieving 40% from the non-automotive industry
why don’t you build your headquarters like a
• Wawasan Asean 30 –
ship?” I thought that was a fantastic idea and
we built and called our headquarters The Ship.
• Wawasan 1B –
We had a retreat and I told my facilitator that
I wanted to prepare my people for growth. I wanted to aim for RM1billion in revenue by 2015. The facilitator asked the group in our 60
To achieve 30% of our revenue outside of Malaysia To achieve RM1billion revenue by 2015
BUSINESS SEGMENT
•
14% in-house
•
26% domestic logistics companies
•
60% MNC logistics companies
We concluded that to capture the 60% of the market, we need better infrastructures, better ICT investments, and so on. One by one, we tackled each issue and invested in it. We invested RM3 million into a well-known American warehouse management system. We held a big press conference and MOU signing to make sure everyone
8
Q
knows we are serious about our intentions to What is your main focus now?
penetrate the FMCG logistics space. We invested in
Everything we do aims at the three grand
the first FM global compliant green 350,000 square
visions. Personally, I focus a lot of my
feet warehouse.
energy on achieving the 40% revenue from non-automotive industry. My main
FM Global provides comprehensive global
investment is only into areas to achieve
commercial and industrial property insurance,
this 40% target. We identified FMCG as
engineering-driven underwriting and risk
the potential area to achieve this. We spent
management solutions, groundbreaking property
one year conducting research into this area
loss prevention research and prompt, professional
and found that the FMCG annual revenue
claims handling. Being FM Global compliant means
was RM15 billion in 2009, with 20% spent
that we have a very safe and secure warehouse of
on logistics. That’s RM3 billion worth of
international standards. Eversendai constructed our
logistics business. We also discovered the
warehouse in eight months.
breakdown of market share:
...because I believed that if I wanted to be successful, I needed to be focused 61
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9
Q
What’s the outcome from all the investment and initiatives so far? We have seen growth from 2007 to 2009, growth in new clients and business to current clients, growing revenue at 50%, PKT is growing very fast, faster than our expectations. So much that in our recent retreat we felt ready for USD1 billion by 2020. This round, all the 52 members of my management team felt this could be achieved. But why the confidence? This shows that it is very important to walk the talk and make sure you follow through to make it happen. When your people see it happen, they will believe in it and automatically align their mindset towards that idea. I give the direction, they believe in it and make it happen.
10
Q
Tell us how you use Facebook as a
who work around here. You can be an adopted
tool for your business.
staff but staying overseas. It is a borderless world in social media. I confer them the status by
I have what I call the Milo van theory. Before
admitting them in a closed group on Facebook. I
youths join the workforce, I interact with them.
invite these adopted staff to my open house every
When they grow up and go to work, they will
year and give them a golden access card to our
remember us and use our service. I have now
gym and lounge. These are some of the privileges
as many as 10,000 university fans on our
of becoming an adopted staff.
Facebook page. I believe this is a phenomenon, how we use social media for business, how it transforms our workplace. I insist my staff all uses Facebook and communicate with me using Facebook. I created a surname for my staff, PKTian. They will use it as their surname.
11
Q
Do fans ask you for jobs on Facebook?
Yes they do, a lot of them want to work in PKT. We Some of my Facebook contacts really adore
invite them to join close group called “PKT Talent
and like and sell the company. These are not
Hunter”. We discuss career opportunities and
employees and they work harder than my staff
prospect with them there. We have 388 people in
in promoting PKT! So I invite them into a focus
this group on a wait list. Since our vacancies are all
group as “PKT adopted staff”. They say, “But I
filled, our HR people will screen these candidates
am only a student”. I said, it is ok, you can work
and help them find jobs in factories and companies
online. Whoever is close to me and interact with
surrounding us. They will be screened again by
me, most are students and even professionals
the respective companies and be hired if they are found to be suitable. This is a form of CSR as well.
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12
Q
Tell us about your “anak belajar, ibu bekerja” campaign.
I believe in employing locals and we will do our best to ensure we put this as a priority. We embark on
13
Q
Describe your leadership style.
Approachable, show leadership by example, respect others first for others to respect you.
this campaign to hire mothers among the community we are in. Our objective is to hire 60 housewives and
I believe walking the talk is very important. I ask
pay them RM25 cash daily. We reckoned that the
my staff to use Facebook because I believe it is
younger mothers who have children going to school
one of the most power platforms to utilise. I can
in the morning would not mind working after sending
see that in three years or so, Facebook will be the
their children to school from 8.30am to 12.30pm. We
most important communication tool in the world.
felt the more mature mothers with children in Form
As such, I wanted my staff to embrace it.
1 to 3 will be able to work from 1.30pm to 5.30pm before they go home to cook for the family. We hope
At one point, I told people who asked me what I
to achieve three objectives with this campaign:
do, “I Facebook fulltime”! And I told my staff I can only be contacted through Facebook, “Private
1. Cut the cost of labour because we do not need
message me and attach your files there”. My fans
to employ full-time staff to do what can be done
in the Talent Hunter group know my mission and
by part-time staff.
vision because they follow our Facebook page.
2. To enable housewives to bring back RM25 per
When you make Facebook interesting, people will
day to help cover household expenses. Imagine
read and embrace the information.
these mothers using the money to buy food to
feed their growing families!
3. To hire only locals.
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14
Q
Are you worried your competitors will know what you share on social media?
We are providing the critical mass and leadership for change, if I want to move the whole industry we have to lead, we have to share. I am not worried about others copying us and knowing what we are doing because we want to set the example and lead by example. We set the benchmark, we set the standard. We have to always be one step ahead. For example, we built a green warehouse that no one has done before. The electricity is generated from solar panels and we have natural ventilation and translucent sheets for natural light to enter. We recycle rainwater for our toilets and we are Green Building Index certified. We are always pushing the envelope and being a few steps ahead.
15
Q
What is the source of your vision, ideas and innovation?
You must have a basic idea of what you want in life. If you have money, will it guarantee happiness? If you are happy, do you want others surrounding you who help you make that money to be happy too? That’s one of the reasons we have our annual management trips. It is basically an unselfish sharing of the fruits of labour. We take two weeks off every year to travel around the world. No phone calls, no emails, all effectively delegated. I tell my management team, let me take care of all your needs. I want you to take care of PKT. We pay them well and I tell them I will bring them to see the world. I personally plan every detail to make it an experience money cannot buy. Whether they want to go to the Artic or to the Sahara, I will bring them. Money is not an issue as I want to give my team the joy of seeing the
Do you have a role model?
I enjoy reading a book entitled The Leadership Secrets of Colin Powell. I suppose Powell is a role model. I admire how Richard Branson uses social media. I believe in emulating positive attributes from everyone I meet.
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16
Q
world. I want to see the world also. I am fanatical about travelling. I love travelling, I can spend six months planning a trip and provide an in-depth travel guide. I want it to be an experience to be remembered, that money cannot buy. This really builds the morale and motivation of my team. Every year, the staff are excited about the trip and they are proud to be a part of the team.
BUSINESS SEGMENT
17
Q
What do you find most challenging?
For the past 16 years, the most challenging issue is to get my people motivated to work for me. I believe the modern CEO should focus on motivation, give direction, be very clear where you want to the company to go. I tell my staff the past, the present and what is ahead. They all follow me on Facebook. I use Facebook to motivate them to move in the same direction. The human touch in management is important. You must genuinely want to do something good for them. Facebook helps me give them my side of the story because when you are at the top those at the bottom are too far away and may not understand your perspective. I do not like my managers to mistreat their lower level staff. If I treat my staff well, they will not cheat or mismanage the business. Likewise, I want my managers to treat their lower level staff well. In turn, they will take care of our business.
18
Q
What is your advise for fresh graduate entering the workplace?
“Susah susah dahulu, senang senang kemudian”. Work hard first to enjoy success later. Without hard word, your success will not last. You need a foundation that is strong. Always strive higher to achieve more. And always be honest. If you are without integrity, you cannot become an honest person overnight. You have to start being honest and being a person of integrity now. My
Above: Dato’ Michael leads his management team on the much anticipated annual trip “around the world for an experience money cannot buy”
motto is, “Happiness is derived from seeing other people happy.” When people appreciate your kind gesture, you are also motivated and happy at the same time.
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“Now Everyone Can Have Good Skin� Professor Datin Dr Clara Chee Founder/Chairperson, Clara International Beauty Group Prof. Dr. Clara L. Chee is a well-known personality in the beauty industry which she entered as a beauty therapist with a Degree in Science (Chemistry). She started her own beauty business in Petaling Jaya, Selangor in 1977. Her consummate interest in beauty led her to acquire further knowledge and she enrolled in the University of De Montfort UK (formerly known as Leicester Polytechnic) to do research studies in Medicinal and Cosmetic Products Technology. Together with her accountant husband, Woo Ser Chai (also the CEO of Clara group of companies), she has built a company from humble beginnings to becoming the largest group of beauty companies in Southeast Asia. 66
Clara skincare is synergistically formulated with only the finest herbal ingredients using the latest innovative technology to enhance skin penetration and efficacy.
BUSINESS SEGMENT
1
Q
How did you start Clara International? I started my own beauty business in SS2, Petaling Jaya, Selangor in 1977. At that time, we didn’t have enough capital, so my husband and I convinced a bank manager to secure a CGC (Credit Guarantee Loan) of RM20,000. As the pioneer in the beauty industry, I managed to attract clients from as far as Johor Bahru and Singapore, as there was a lack of services or understanding of how to treat problematic skin in those days. My customers came from all age groups. I realised I need to have further improvement on my methods and advancement in case studies and scientific evidence to support the methods of treatment. So I enrolled in the University of De Montfort UK (formerly known as Leicester Polytechnic) to do research studies in Medicinal and Cosmetic Products Technology. In 1979, I set up a beauty academy, realising that more qualified aestheticians were needed for the expansion of my business. My business has mushroomed over the years and I have diversified my path into skincare manufacturing plants, R&D Facilities, beauty equipment distributionship and franchising.
Q
2
Why did you choose the beauty industry? My parents are my greatest inspiration. My father opened a textile and sundry shop, and when I was young I observed particularly how he mixed ingredients to make hair wax. He was vain, which was rare in his era, and the most handsome man in the village. And he was successful with his business. I was in awe at how detailed and meticulous he was with beauty related products and this inspired me to think about the possibilities out there. I had a lot of encouragement from my mother as well. She would say, “Don’t be a homemaker like me. Look at your successful cousins and be a professional like them”. I haven’t looked back since.
3
Q
Why are Clara’s products unique? My greatest pride is in my Clara skincare products. Western creams and remedies in those days did little to treat Asian skin. I have spent the last 35 years on R&D in formulation adjustment and advancement of nanotechnology catering mainly for the tropical and humid climate. We were the first in the world to produce herbal skincare specifically for Asian skin. With my involvement in Chinese herbal studies and other medicinal areas, I incorporate all my herbal knowledge into the skincare products. All our products are free from alcohol and animal byproducts or derivatives. Clara skincare is synergistically formulated with only the finest herbal ingredients using the latest innovative technology to enhance skin penetration and efficacy. Each product is specially formulated to treat different skin conditions effectively. We use natural herbal and botanical extracts in an environmentally friendly process to manufacture our products with a lot of R&D in our GMP and ISO certified manufacturing plants. Our products are certified halal by the relevant authorities. We were recently certified as a Bionexus Status company from Biotechcorp for our involvement in Biotechnology research and a new development of products. 67
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4
Q
How is Asian skin different? It is essential to recognise physical conditions of temperate skin. We live in a tropical region that has mainly a Dry-Cold, Dry-Hot, Humid-Hot climate. We cannot use skincare products that have been produced for a different climate. UV rays, dietary, nutrition, genetic factors and our lifestyle affect our skin conditions. A simple example of our skin condition is explained below:
For Cold Temperate Climate • Caucasian skin types • Adapt to cold, dry winds • Skin extra thick & dry (Tight follicles) • Dryness, wrinkles, fast ageing • Too little sun. Need more exposure to sun for tanning
effect and protection with thick clothing
For Tropical Hot Climate • Asian skin types • Adapt to humid and hot environment • Skin has open follicles due to humidity • Oily, congested with blackheads and open pores • Too much sun. Need less sun exposure to cool down
5
Q
the skin temperature
What are some of the harmful ingredients in beauty products to avoid? Some of the banned ingredients that are harmful on your skin that has bleaching creams containing caustic components are: • Retin A Acid
• Mercury, Lead
• Oxybenzone
• Kojic acid
• Caustic Soda
• Sibutramine
• Benzoic Acid
• Tretinoin
• Polytetrafluoroethylene
• Antihistamine
• Hydroquinone
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6
Q
What about plastic surgery and other intrusive techniques? I am deeply concerned at the rate of the plastic surgeries or claims of quick fixes that is growing in
7
Q
What were your greatest challenges during the start-up years? My greatest challenges during my earlier days were the lack of resources or expertise to
this country. Victims of botched beauty treatment
develop my R&D manufacturing business. For
have been reported regularly in the media. And
example, it was very expensive and you needed
there must be a public awareness of the danger
to order in tonnes to purchase and source for
and side effects of the treatment. The treatment
raw materials and ingredients from other markets
can be very invasive and life threatening.
to develop your skincare range. My constant travelling to meet the suppliers and visiting
I have personally lost a good friend who went
exhibitions opened up new pathways to share
for a rejuvenation treatment many years ago.
ideas, trade materials with the industry players to
Other intrusive techniques that you hear
make our supplies more affordable and also to
frequently in the market are Botox, Placenta,
hold exhibitions booths within Asia as well. On a
Animal Cell Extract, Stem Cell Extract, Steroids,
personal note, I missed spending more time with
Hydrocortisone, Desamethesone, Collagen
my own children as the first few years during the
Injection, Vitamin C injections are hormone and
formation of the business was very hectic.
foreign intervention into the dermis of your skin. The effect of a smooth, shiny and whitening effect on the skin is shown immediately but the process of ageing will begin sooner and it can also be hazardous to your health.
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Q
8
My greatest challenges during my earlier days were the lack of resources or expertise to develop my R&D manufacturing business.
What are your greatest challenges now? The greatest challenges are definitely to put Malaysia on the map in the area of beauty and wellness. There has definitely been a huge leap from where I started in those days but we lack a regulatory body to govern the beauty industry to make the beauty procedures safer for consumers. There is still a lot of improvement to be made and untapped potential here. I
My greatest joy is definitely my children, especially
formed an Association called the Malaysian
when they had enjoyed their professional careers
Beauty Therapy Association many years ago
elsewhere but then decided to join my company
to gather aesthetician professionals to join and
to help me build my company to greater success.
support the framework.
My whole life is about education. Without it, it is impossible to win the hearts of others. Clara’s tagline
My other challenges definitely include looking
is “the trusted name in beauty�. I hope it sums up
into the sustainability of the business. But I do have a very positive outlook on what we can achieve for the next stage. I definitely want to educate and transform the mindset of the public to see the aesthetic industry as a respectable profession. And I hope there can be more funding to improve our level of
what I have achieved in my work.
10
Q
9
more innovative products for our future expansion. I definitely embrace the globalised market and hope
achievements?
that in the near future we can stand strong as one of
My greatest achievement is definitely enjoying from scratch. I am honoured to have received so many awards throughout the years. My greatest sense of achievement came when I was conferred an Honorary PhD from the
plans next?
I plan to invest more in our R&D division to develop
What are some of your greatest
the success of our company that was built
achievement, what are your
I do plan to focus on our market growth overseas.
education in this field.
Q
Having reached this level of
the international key players in the beauty industry.
11
Q
What is your advice to young people entering the beauty industry, whether as beauticians or otherwise?
Pacific Western University, USA in Cosmetic Science & Technology in recognition of
My only key words are passion, and never lose faith
my dedication to and achievements in the
in yourself. I started with nothing and there is no
aesthetic profession, and awarded the Medaille
end to knowledge and education. With that in your
du Merite (CIDESCO Professional Standard
heart, you will be able to find your true calling and
and Status Award), the world renowned
make a success of it. Sharing is caring. Commit
asthetician body in Zurich, Switzerland.
yourself 100% to everything you do and eventually you will see results.
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