All posts by EZ Malaysia

Captains & Legends, EZ 37, EZ 61 (2), Vol 37

MOBILE MATADOR WITH MILEAGE

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Gary Xu

Country Director, Huawei Consumer Business Group, Malaysia

True to his Chinaman roots, country director for Huawei’s consumer business group, Gary Xu, has business built into his DNA. Deborah Joy Peter dials in for a chat with the Malaysian-based head, to talk tech and discuss the brand’s direction.

Slightly over a decade ago, sometime in 2004, China-based multi-national networking and telecommunications equipment and services behemoth, Huawei Technologies, braved the unknown when it went ahead and appointed Nanjing-hailing Gary Xu to oversee global sales of the brand’s niche offerings across multiple regions. Fast-forward to 2014, the decision has proven to be one of the most prudent hires in the history of the company by far. Fresh out of Shanghai at the time, the only tools under his belt were two years’ worth of field experience and a glorified degree from the prestigious Tongji University.

TECHNOLOGY TYCOON

However, a marketing maverick in his own right, the Jiangsu native although positioned at the peak of his youth, did nothing to shy away from the demands attached to such a commanding title. Instead, in an effort to showcase the full effect of the stock from which he was bred, he took the bull by the horns, only to trot far and wide, to pave the way for a name which would go on to become a world-renowned trademark across the smartphone arena. Today, he remains seated at the helm of the mobile giant’s Malaysian operations as country director of Huawei’s consumer business group.

A corporate-inspired commission afforded upon request by the man himself, the aforementioned re-assignment marks Xu’s second call of duty to the bustling yet exotic industrial district of Kuala Lumpur. Part of a dedicated South Pacific tour to manage sales for the home devices segment worldwide, his initial stint served back in 2007, albeit brief, rendered him an instant fan of the urban scape’s beyond-touristic trappings. Back then, Malaysia hadn’t yet become part of China’s open retail market but he made that happen. Hence, the enthusiastic envoy’s desire to return in 2013 to continue what he had started six years prior.

‘Lah’-vingly Asian

Essentially, what could have alternatively played out as a maiden European (Germany) or North American (USA) expedition, ended up being a deliberate but well thought-out re-journey instead, to the tropics. In his own words, he says while reminiscent of his previous visit, “It is possible that my comeback is skewed towards personal reasons. Admittedly, I understand the market, know the country well, appreciate Malaysia’s immensely international business potential, and fancy her vast education opportunities as well as multi-lingual (specifically English and Chinese) landscape for my son.”

Elaborating further, he notes: “Had it been Europe, it would’ve taken the family much longer to adapt. Other options were available to me but we really like it here; a nation with mixed cultures, fantastic food, and heart-warming weather.” Incidentally, throughout his tenure with the company, the duly driven trend-setter has clocked time not just in Asia—to include China, Malaysia, and Singapore before spending two years in Mumbai promoting various Huawei products under the branding of Tata Indicom and subsequently, Vodafone—but also the Middle East where he led business dealings out of Bahrain, the birthplace of his now four-year-old boy.

Influential enforcer

The core functions of Xu’s current capacity dictate that the mobile marketer engage in the strengthening of Huawei’s products and branding in a manner which translates to support of its recent re-alignment from a business-to-business to business-to-consumer focus. The said transition is indicative of a redefinition of the manufacturer’s long-term strategic goals. “Huawei is a technology-based company specialised in networking but since three years ago, we’ve started sinking our teeth into the consumer market. Although we’ve been involved with consumer devices for more than a decade now, we have begun actively beefing up our B2C segment.”

Since its inception in 1988, Huawei has over a 26-year period, expanded its offerings so that its three main extensions encompass networking, enterprise, and consumer. While networking is still the brand’s leading channel, the need arose to develop technology which was compatible with the products it rolled out. “As such, we improved our business model in 2011 to include the open market strategy and began leveraging our own branding. With the advent of the smartphone, the move in this direction hasn’t been in vain. Advancements in technology and economic growth have contributed to our success.”

Mover and shaker

Literally speaking, ‘success’ is an over-simplification of what the multi-billion dollar empire truly represents. Xu recalls how founder Ren Zhengfei started the company with only 20,000 RMB back in the day. Presently, Huawei not only enjoys a global revenue share in the region of USD 39.2 billion but also a global market share of 6.9 per cent and 5.2 per cent in Malaysia, making it the third largest smartphone manufacturer in the world, just behind Samsung and Apple. Ranked 94th, the Chinese brand is one of five new entrants to make it into Interbrand’s Best Global Brands ranking this year.

Meanwhile, 65 per cent of its revenue comes from outside of China while its earnings continue to climb both domestically and across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. At the Malaysian level, Huawei went from 11 to 13 new smartphone models since 2013 and from zero Huawei-branded store identity outlets two years ago to a staggering 72 retail shops and 400 device touch-points by 2014. Despite its stellar performance amidst an exceedingly competitive arena, Xu’s work isn’t yet done as his dream is to increase Huawei’s market share even further, improve on product quality, and make the brand even more ‘international’.

Huawei patrol

Speaking to the challenges which remain, he confesses: “Even with these milestones, the need to explain how Huawei is different still persists. Although we have achieved widespread acclaim, in people’s minds, we are still Chinese. Consumer confidence, brand value, and media exposure must be enhanced if we are to showcase that our product is good. Technology-wise, Huawei is the best. Therefore, driving awareness is pivotal to ensure longevity.” To achieve all of the above, the technology provider plans on leveraging its speciality branches and using fully-integrated marketing campaigns to refine product introduction in the marketplace.

Evidently, he has his work cut out for him. Fortunately, he is one to welcome a good challenge and thrive in an ever-evolving and fast-paced environment. For exactly this reason, the larger popularity of Western brands does little to rattle his cage. The fact that all phones are manufactured in its backyard—that is China—has caused Huawei to subscribe to even more stringent protocols where its offerings are concerned, giving the brand an edge when it comes to quality control and assurance. That coupled with its extensive 4G-patented capabilities (dual SIM being one) and latest Huawei Mate 7 invention, places the juggernaut at the forefront of this added advantage.

MASTER JUGGLER

So how does this one gung-ho gentleman who is the Gary Xu whom the world has come to know, get it all done with precision intact and still manage to retain his very distinct sense of humour? It’s simple; he is in every sense of the word, ‘married’ to his job and quite literally in more ways than one. He is wedded to the once-upon-a-time secretary of his superior whom he met at Huawei in 2006, dated discreetly, and walked down the aisle with two years later.

But much has changed on that front, because six years in and one child later, her title has been upgraded from colleague to boss—not an unnatural progression for most wives. “I like to joke that at Huawei, I have the wife, the fun, the car, the money, and the house,” Xu kids without holding back tiny laughter. Interestingly enough, although the missus had resigned from the company directly after the awesome-twosome tied the knot, in 2010 she re-joined her husband as his leading lady to grow the business in India and the Middle East.

Following the birth of their son in Bahrain, the couple returned to China to prepare their teeny tot for kindergarten. Says the industrial mogul to Essenze when queried on his secret to triumph: “My family always comes first and to me, to flourish is to live by honesty, integrity, and sincerity. Treating people with respect is something I take seriously as I expect the same from others.” Plainly, being family-man and fierce frontrunner is how Xu stays productive.

Captains & Legends, EZ 37, EZ 61 (2), Vol 37

THE DIRECTOR

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Joe Sidek

George Town Festival Director

Text by Jeremy Tan

CONCEIVED as a celebration of a city and its UNESCO World Heritage listing, the George Town Festival has since gone on to garner acclaim and repute across the region. And the man behind it all, believes it can only get better.

Festival director Joe Sidek hopes the annual month-long extravaganza will make its mark on the international scene in the coming years, and be on par with the many renowned arts and culture events hosted by various cities across the world.

He never envisaged such a rapid, upward trajectory when he first took on the post in 2010 when the Penang state government wanted to start a festival, and had an open call. Several groups came forward with proposals, but due to the short lead time there were ultimately no takers.

Enter the 56-year-old, who was roped in by George Town World Heritage Incorporated’s (GTWHI) then general manager Dato’ Maimunah Mohd. Sharif. Having been involved in the creative arena throughout his life – with spells in landscape gardening, running a modelling agency and owning a restaurant and revue club – he was the perfect candidate.

“My initial reaction was of fear and excitement, but it was a challenge that I am very glad I undertook. It turned out to be the most difficult, but enjoyable journey of my life.”

“Starting the Festival, I did a little homework about other existing arts and culture events in Malaysia, like in Kuala Lumpur, Johor and Malacca, and set about creating our own unique identity that highlighted all that was special about Penang,” he recalled.

Despite being born in Johor Bahru, the son of a former Northern Region Director of Customs has the Pearl of the Orient very much flowing through his veins, having spent most of his life on the island.

He was educated in Francis Light Primary School and then Penang Free School, before jetting off to London for his A-Levels, and subsequently the University of Manchester to study Town and Country Planning.

“My fondest memories of growing up was associated with my late father, whose career took him, me and my six siblings, travelling to all parts of Malaysia. We were constantly exposed to different cultures and traditions,” he noted.

But naturally, George Town inspires him the most. The sights, the sounds, the communities and their energy constantly fascinate him and spark ideas of how to use, promote, enjoy, showcase and be proud of what the city has to offer.

“It’s a journey that involves being creative, and sharing it with many different people – from my staff to participants and audiences at the festival, in particular school children who are an integral part of our programme as we want to make the arts accessible to anyone and everyone.”

“For the first three years, my focus was to brand the festival, so I set about curating its content with that in mind. After that, I felt comfortable to look into an ASEAN direction and roadmap, and strategise accordingly.

“In the coming years, I feel the festival should build further upon its local flavour, to sell to the international market. That would be my goalpost if I am retained as festival director,” adds Sidek, whose contract to run the festival expires after the 2015 edition.

Through the years, funding was and still is, the biggest challenge. He hopes more individuals and corporations would come forward and support the festival, as it a great platform to reach out to the masses.

Nonetheless, it has been an extremely meaningful journey that still continues to inspire him, and open up many cross-border opportunities. Since the festival started, he has been invited to cities like Yokohama, Seoul, Taipei, Edinburgh, Brisbane, Cebu, Chiang Mai and Yangon, some multiple times, to share his experiences and engage with like-minded parties.

“I never imagined that it would be that well-received,” quipped Sidek, who unbeknownst to many, is also an industrialist, having run a factory that has been producing and marketing textile chemicals since 2001.

In the midst of all the attention and accolades, he also sounds a note of caution about what’s happening with the city, and what the future holds. There has to be long-term planning and strategising, otherwise it risks being rail-roaded into a commercial product bereft of soul and character.

“George Town is a beautiful and delicate city, that belongs to the people. We need to continue looking after it.”

Cover Story, EZ 37, EZ 61 (2), Vol 37

THE MAN BEHIND THE SCENES… of the McMillan Woods Global Awards

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Dato’ Raymond Liew

President of McMillan Woods

A man so engrossed with his 24/7 work routine and for what he is today, one may think that this gentleman would have no time for his family and loved ones. On the contrary, this gentleman who is none other than Dato’ Raymond Liew, leads a simple life, shying away from high society where he was there, saw it all, and enjoyed it; now, he spends most of his leisure with cherished family and friends.

In a world beset by strife, vulgarity and the inequities of human existence, it becomes almost inevitable that one develops a sense of cynicism – a kind of intellectual flak jacket, against the countless bits of inspirational fiction and half-truths that bombard our consciousness.  It is an unfortunate corollary of a post-Facebook society that every other tale of triumph over adversity and circumstances is either one of pure fiction or otherwise heavily exaggerated.

At first glance, Dato’ Raymond Liew mightn’t appear as someone who would normally associate with the blue collar way of life. To his peers, it would seem like he is just another well-heeled man amidst a vast and bountiful sea of excess and capitalism. Dig deeper however, and you will find that Raymond – yes, that’s how he wishes to be addressed, is the product of an environment as unforgiving as it was unfair. Raymond stands tall as a self-made man despite or perhaps even because of the circumstances of his early life.

Of roaring heights and spectacular falls

“I attribute what I have today to the upbringing provided to me by my parents,” he enthuses. “My late father may not have been educated in the academic sense but as far as business and family ‘values were’ concerned, he was a giant in my eyes.” Raymond went on to elaborate: “My father inculcated in me a strong sense of integrity and accountability – where integrity comes from the heart! What you practise in front of others, you must also practise behind closed doors – that’s integrity!”

Raymond continued, “When I was very young, my father was rich – in my early years we lacked for almost nothing but because my father was by nature a very trusting person, his once thriving business collapsed around him. People owed him a lot of money but they never paid. In traditional Chinese culture, my father valued their friendship far more than he valued pieces of printed paper.” Raymond, being the third youngest of eleven siblings grew wispy as he trudged on with his father’s tale of roaring heights and spectacular fall from grace.  Lesson learned. “Certainly, it is one thing to rise up from difficult circumstances but it is something else entirely to witness the good things you once had disappear.”

Family values

“Which is worse? To be born blind, never having seen the blue ocean? Or to behold the majesty of a cloudless night sky, the sight of a perfectly tailored suit on one’s frame – the vision of beauty that is one’s lover, only to have one’s eyesight taken away in a horrible accident? Believe you me – the latter is far more difficult to handle.” Raymond went on to expound, “But what choice did I have? My family and I had to go on living – we had to eat, so my father did the only thing he could at the time – run a small coffee shop in Jalan Ipoh. We would wake up at 5.00am to prepare for the breakfast crowd. Initially, it was difficult to come to terms with, especially with memories of what we used to have in the back of our minds.”

Nonetheless, Raymond knew that the good things in life had to wait – and wait he did. “All of us, brothers and sisters made a pledge that we would never be poor again so long as we could do it with a clear conscious.”

To this end, Raymond’s father insisted that all his children receive formal and extended tertiary education. “Unlike him, my father wanted each of his children to be qualified professionals. That way, no matter what happened in the future his, children would have their education to fall back on.”

Raymond has an almost innocent, childlike adoration for his mother, who is still going strong at 88 years young. “My father was the one who held the rod, who disciplined us whenever we needed it but mum was the one we would always run to for help – even today! She never lost her temper with us. I believe she knew there was a need for a softer, gentler touch to compensate for my father’s stricter ways.”

Raymond’s mother was the backbone of the family. “She was always there to comfort us and listen to our to our error-riddled adolescent stories. All of us brothers and sisters now take great care to ensure our mother is comfortable. After all, with the sacrifices that our father made for us, one of the small ways in which we try to honour him is to honour our mother.”

When asked about his wife and nearly two-year-old daughter, not forgetting his grown-up son, Michael Liew who is pursuing his own dreams, Raymond can’t help but light up about two of his three favourite women. “My wife and I always yearned for a little girl and God blessed us with our beautiful little Jenna. Having our daughter at home – it makes everything else seem so trivial now,” he shares. “The wealth, the career, and the material possessions – all of that does not matter to me anymore!”

Raymond became very philosophical when talking about what the future holds for his daughter. “I want my daughter to have a better life than I did when I was young. She will live differently than I – she will have all the love that my parents showered on me but I also want her to be comfortable.”

McMillan Woods – The global network

After completing his professional degree and post graduate studies in London, Raymond spent the better part of 20 years living and working in England, he decided to make the bold move to return home to Malaysia to set up the global advisory firm with a group of highly powered individuals on 9th January 2010 with its global Head Office in London, United Kingdom – McMillan Woods.

Raymond opines, “The McMillan Woods network is very different from others – we do not believe in making money off our stakeholders. We collect no royalties beyond a cursory annual fee for the upkeep and maintenance of the global network.”

One of the key factors behind the network’s explosion in size in such a short span of time is the sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that member firms and individual members feel. “When they join us, they are no longer alone – they become part of the global community of firms.”

McM Care programme – CRS drive!

Raymond is also very proud of the McMillan Woods’ signature ‘McM Care’ programme, which is primarily a corporate social responsibility drive. Over the years, McM Care has donated hundreds of thousands to charity to include nurturing Mother Earth by planting 201 trees at the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia, thus lending the McM name to conservation and eco-sustaining efforts. “At the end of the day, we need to bear in mind that this world belongs to our future generations as well – we need to work for their well-being too.”

McMillan Woods Global Awards

When asked of the McMillan Woods Global Awards, Raymond explains, “The Global Awards recognise recipients who do what they do with the sort of integrity, accountability, responsibility and professionalism not seen anywhere else.”

His motto is “Nothing is insurmountable if you put your mind, body and soul into attaining the intended goal.”

EZ 37, EZ 61 (2), People Culture, Vol 37

PIAGET LIGHTS UP GOLDEN HORSE

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The 51st Golden Horse Awards Ceremony was yet another success story in the entertainment industry that saw some of the biggest names in attendance film fraternity in Greater China up to celebrate and support this prominent film event. Piaget, the renowned Swiss watchmaker and jeweller, has again supported this prestigious film awards in Chinese-Language cinema as the Premier Sponsor.

Host Ella Chen looked chic in her Piaget Altiplano watch which perfectly complemented her Possession earrings. Meanwhile, Mickey Huang opted for a timeless Piaget Altiplano Ultra-Thin watch to accentuate his scintillating glamour. Pink Yang, another one of the three red carpet event’s hosts, was spotted wearing a pair of Piaget Rose Passion earrings and Piaget Rose ring for the special occasion. Piaget Brand Ambassador Gong Li waltzed in with a Piaget Rose Passion high-jewellery necklace and matching earrings while donning a Couture Précieuse diamond watch as well as Piaget Rose and Possession rings to complete her graceful yet elegant red carpet look.

Other key notables included Chen Jian Bin, Masatoshi Nagase, Ng Man Tat, Sylvia Chang, and Midi Z, who like numerous other celebrities who were in attendance that night, were clad in timeless Piaget pieces for the grand affair held in Taiwan. During the Golden Horse Farewell Party, Piaget paid tribute to the winners of the Best Director (Ann Hui), Best Leading Actor (Chen Jian Bin), and Actress (Chen Shiang Chyi) awards, by presenting each with Piaget Altiplano watch to recognise and honour their outstanding performances and contributions to the film industry.

EZ 37, EZ 61 (2), People Culture, Vol 37

PIPA HONORS 13 WINNERS FOR YEAR 2014

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The first edition of the PENANG INTERNATIONAL PHOTO AWARDS (PIPA) attracted exceptional works comprising over 800 entries from about 350 photographers worldwide. PIPA is another new award event proudly organised by CHTNETWORK. The jurors this year were Paul Ho (Senior Executive Director, Fujifilm (M) Sdn Bhd), Ch’ng Huck Theng (Founder, CHTNETWORK) and special guest Kim Teoh (Editor-in-chief, Photo Creator Magazine). PIPA is an international platform for both professional and amateur photographers to compete in capturing what Penang has to offer. Both local and international photo enthusiasts, from photographers, journalists to tourists were invited to participate. A total of RM20,000 worth of Fujifilm cameras and cash prizes were up for grabs. Sponsors for this year included Fujifilm, Penang State Government, One East Museum and Emico Marketing. Y.B. Danny Law Hen Kiang, Penang State Exco for Tourism Development, and Hiroyuki Sakai, MD Fujifilm Asia Pacific were among the VIPs.

WINNERS

GOLD AWARD
  • Yang Zhen Siang
SILVER AWARD
  • Kevin Ooi Wey Hun
BRONZE AWARD
  • Ho Cheng Woh
10 MERIT AWARDS
  • Chong Jin Nee
  • Chua Boon Keat (2 Entries)
  • Khor Sek Min
  • Lim Boon Seang
  • Lim Lean Eng (2 Entries)
  • Song Jin Tek
  • Steven Tan Eng Hong
  • Muhammad Firdaus
  • Bin Mohd Hadzri
EZ 36, EZ 61 (2), People Culture, Vol 36

PIE AWARDS 2014 – WHERE EXCELLENCE IS HONOURED

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The inaugural Pinnacle International Excellence (PIE) Awards 2014 marked a bold step forward in making Malaysia another venue on the world map presenting international awards.

It was an evening to remember. Making an impressive debut, the PIE Awards 2014 ceremony which took place on 9 August 2014 had it all. A five-star venue, a dinner fit for a king (or a crown prince on this occasion), stirring performances, a congenial host and not least of all, the gold statuette. As for the guests, when it comes to honouring the best, one can only expect the best – industry magnates, corporate movers and shakers, echelons of society and a few celebrities for measure.

With camera crews on standby, guests from as far as Europe began to trickle through the Eastern & Oriental Hotel’s marbled lobby. Dressed to reflect the evening’s black tie theme “The Good Ol’ Days”, there was no shortage of well-fitted tuxedos, elegant gowns and retro inspired headdresses.

POMP & CEREMONY
Established to confer honour and recognition to organisations, be it local, national or international, the inaugural ceremony rewarded 18 organisations from various industries with the prestigious acclaim as being leaders within their respective categories.

Nominated via a stringent selection process, the winners represented the best of those who have reached the pinnacle of their achievements within three main categories – Emerging Class, National Order and International League.

The evening kicked off with the arrival of His Royal Highness DYTM Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail who as Guest of Honour presented the awards in the National and International Categories.

Guests were serenaded by singing duo Chakora Group, as they took their seats in the tastefully decorated Heritage Ballroom. It was then time for host and man behind the awards to say his piece. Beginning his speech, Ch’ng Huck Theng, President of CHTNetwork, took the opportunity to observe a minute’s silence in remembrance of the victims of the recent airline disasters before expounding on the inspiration behind the awards ceremony. “We believe that the world is too small to be divided, and we should be addressing the fact that all human beings should come together, work together, for the sake of the survival of the planet and better the living conditions of generations to come. This is the reason why CHTNetwork has gone beyond presenting local and national awards to being the first in Malaysia to invite international organisations to participate and celebrate this occasion of success and friendship.”

As the wine flowed and dinner service commenced, 24 Season Drum from Chung Ling (Private) High School took to the stage with a heart-thumping and energetic performance by the youngsters. The presentation is part of CHTNetwork’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote local culture.

IN MINT FORM
Following the presentation of the final set of awards, Ch’ng joined His Royal Highness and Dato Louis Ng Founder & MD of Public Gold, to unveil the Anak Malaysia Limited Edition Silver Coins which were minted to commemorate the country’s 57th year of independence.

The Anak Malaysia Limited Edition Coins are replicas of Ch’ng’s internationally acclaimed bronze sculptures which are a true representation of multi-cultural, multi-racial identity that defines Malaysian society. The minting of the coins also mark a first of its kind collaboration between Public Gold Group (Malaysia) and Royal East Pty Ltd (Australia).

The evening came to a close with an auction of luxury items sponsored by Rado and Fujifilm. Guests threw in their bids for the chance of owning the limited edition items and it was Winson Loh of PINKGUY Gallery and Erlina Tan who walked away with the limited edition Rado True Thinline Si3N4 and a Rado Diastar Chronograph, whilst Dato’ Dr Wenddi Anne Chong was the proud new owner of the latest edition of the FUJIFILM X-T1.

 

EZ 61 (2)

FRENCH OPULENCE AT DIOR

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The flagship boutique is modelled after Dior’s legendary store on Avenue Montaigne

Emulating the design concept of Dior’s legendary boutique on 30 Avenue Montaigne in Paris by Peter Marino, the newly opened flagship store combines 18th century details blended with modern elements to achieve a feminine and glamorous aesthetic.

This blend creates an intimately lavish ambience of a contemporary apartment displaying their lush collection of women’s ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes, accessories and timepieces.

Upon entering, clients are greeted by the sight of Dior’s “World of Bags” where they will find the complete range of seasonal handbags under a constellation of “StarLED” lights made with Swarovski Elements. Leading towards the VIP Salon is an area dedicated to the top of the line fragrance by Dior “Collection Privée”. The luxurious marble flooring inspired by Dior’s signature “Cannage” quilting pattern is in line with the quintessence of French aesthetics.

Featuring a dedicated space for Timepieces, exquisite details are meticulously incorporated to create a luxurious environment for customers to admire the stunning wristbands manufactured in the Swiss watch-making cradle La Chaux-de-Fonds. The ready-to-wear salon features a beautiful Swarovski crystal chandelier and art furniture by Laurent Chauvat and Vincent Corbiere.

Several contemporary artists were appointed to design works of art for the boutique that reflect the codes of the house, one of which is the traditional French marble fireplace surrounded by a line-up of extravagant evening dresses.

EZ 36, EZ 61 (2), People Culture, Vol 36

Everyone loves dior

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Christian Dior, the luxury fashion retailer celebrated the reopening of its flagship boutique in Malaysia.

More than 400 guests made up of Kuala Lumpur’s socialites, celebrities as well as fashionistas attended the gala reopening of Dior at Starhill Gallery, Kuala Lumpur. Amidst a sumptuous spread of canapés and chilled beverages, guests most of them decked out in the label, had the privilege of being among the first in Malaysia to admire the newly arrived fall and winter collection.

Attitude & Style, EZ 36, EZ 61 (2), Vol 36

TIME TO TREASURE

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Piaget presents Limelight Diamonds, a collection of captivating fine jewellery watches that pairs the charm of solitaires with the art of fine watchmaking. Designed for the independent woman who lives for the present, the Limelight Diamonds is a stylish way to mark her own milestones. The refined radiance of the precious stones are enhanced with a subtle and feminine strap in black satin with white gold ardillon buckle set with a single diamond. With the intense fire and lasting beauty of a solitaire diamond scintillating around her wrist, Limelight Diamonds are destined to become lifelong treasures.

EZ 61 (2)

GEM SPECTACULAR

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The September Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair 2014 displays the brightest and most exquisite jewellery collections.

The September Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair 2014 organised by UBM Asia was the largest showcase of pearls, diamonds, gemstones, equipment and services. Held from 17th to 21st at the famous Hong Kong convention and exhibition centre, it is one of the most important jewellery marketplaces that no connoisseur could afford to miss.

The fair featured up to 3694 exhibitors from 49 countries with up to 435 diamond companies and 754 gemstone companies, making it the world’s largest Diamond Pavilion and Asia’s biggest gemstone marketplace. To ease the buyers shopping experience, the fair’s Mobile App was updated with the latest information including the exhibitors list and interactive floor plans.

The fair also provided a great opportunity for effective networking as participants and visitors forged personal contacts in an exclusive business atmosphere where they could exchange ideas while discussing latest developments and trends in jewellery markets across the globe.

A series of special events were held throughout the week including a press conference where the latest developments in the jewellery trade were shared, auctions and a number of educational seminars on gems and jewellery. Exclusive jewellery brand HODEL Switzerland unveiled the latest addition to their exquisite pearl collection.