Category Archives: Captains & Legends

An in-depth personality profile of the elites and leaders across various industries from all over the world

Captains & Legends, EZ 42, EZ 42, EZ 61 (2)

TOUR DE FORCE OF MALAYSIAN TOURISM 马来西亚旅游业的精心杰作

March 23, 2016 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Dato’ Mirza Mohammad Taiyab

Director General of Tourism Malaysia

Dato’ Mirza Mohammad Taiyab is a driving force behind the country’s rapidly growing tourism industry today, and it all stemmed from a youthful penchant for visiting new places, seeing amazing sights and experiencing different cultures.

The current Director General of Tourism Malaysia has spent most of his professional career promoting the Malaysia brand and enticing people all over the world to visit this vibrant multi-cultural nation. It was a path chosen long ago.

Growing up in the small town of Bagan Serai in Perak’s northern Kerian district, he was a member of the scout movement and would often go for camping trips and cycling excursions. His parents also frequently travelled around the country, and took him along.

“I developed an interest for travelling and nature, and that gave me an idea of what kind of profession I would choose after finishing school. I wanted something to do with travel,” he recalls.

Upon completion of his Senior Cambridge, he pursued his tertiary studies at UiTM, earning a Diploma in Tourism Administration, followed by a Degree then Masters in Business Administration.

He started off with a short stint as a contract manager of a motor trading company, before joining the then Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) in 1982 as an assistant director in its develoment and project management division.

Mirza then served as Director of the corporation’s Frankfurt office in Germany, overseeing promotional activities in Europe, followed by a similar posting as director of the Tokyo office in Japan. After 14 years in these posts, he was elevated to Director of the International Promotion Division.

He became Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia in 2004, and finally Director General in 2006. In all, he has served under 7 Tourism Ministers, and seen a paradigm shift in global travel and hospitality trends.

“When I started, the industry was very Euro-centric, and most tourists came from Europe or Australia. Back then, China, India or ASEAN countries weren’t regarded as a major source of tourism.”

“Things have since changed, and tourism today is very regional, with ASEAN now the focus. And Malaysia, being centrally located, gets a lot of interest from Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand and also China. “

“The brand is everything. We have added value to the name by adding ‘Truly Asia’ 15 years ago, to tell the world they can find a little sample of the continent, in Malaysia – a place where diverse peoples practice their own cultures and lifestyles, all living together in harmony and building the country.”

The country on track to achieve its target of 36 million tourists by 2020 under the Malaysia Tourism Transformation Programme, and hopes to generate RM168billion in revenue, more than double the current figure.

“When it comes to value of services, from hotels to shopping and food and beverage, Malaysia is one of the most attractive places in the world for that,” Mirza notes.

With tourism being an industry that deals with good times, his ascent through the ranks at Tourism Malaysia has been memorable. In particular, he fondly remembers the Visit Malaysia years in 1990, 1994, 2007 and 2014.

But there has also been frustration, like when tragedies happen. All it takes is one untoward incident, often beyond their control, to dissuade people from visiting.

“In 2014 for example, we were geared up to achieve a target of 28 million visitors. But then there were air tragedies, massive flooding, and security incidents. When these happen, you have to double your efforts to overcome it as quickly as possible,” adds Mirza.

He is confident the industry will continue to grow. The country is on track to achieve its target of 36 million tourists by 2020 under the Malaysia Tourism Transformation Programme, and hopes to generate RM168billion in revenue, more than double the current figure.

While he has never thought of quitting tourism and doing other things, he would like to share his knowledge and experience with the younger generations so they can also venture into the industry better prepared to face its challenges in the years to come.

“The young who wish to go into the tourism industry needs to know there is a lot of backend and behind the scenes work going on. One must be ready to operate from the back, before finally enjoying the fruits of being in front.“

“Every holiday period or festive season, one needs to sacrifice their own holidays, to ensure visitors enjoy theirs. Your holiday will have to come later, perhaps when you retire!” quips the father of three, who has been married for 22 years.

“Tourism is an industry of the future, and one of the fastest growing in the world. In years to come, technology, economy and security advancements will bring the world closer, and lead to more people travelling.”

“And that will help bridge peoples. For by appreciating and understanding each other’s cultures, and working together towards a common goal, we can all build society and make the world a better place to live.”

说拿督Mirza Mohammad Taiyab是马来西亚旅游业飞跃发展的原动力一点也不为过，而这一切仅是源于一名爱好四处游览，感受迷人景点与体验不同文化的年轻的心。

这名马来西亚旅游局的现任总监绝大部分重心都在促进推动马来西亚旅游品牌，让全世界的人们能到访这个充满活力的多元文化国家，这是一条其所选择的悠远道路。

在霹雳州北部Kerian区的 Bagan Serai 小镇长大，他是童子军活跃的一员，经常参与露营旅行和骑单车游览，而双亲更是带着他走遍世界许多国家。

“我深陷旅行和大自然，学校毕业后也给予我清晰的发展路向，我想要参与和旅行有关的事务。”完成剑桥高级会考后，他在玛拉工艺大学继续高等教育，获取旅游管理文凭，而接着就是工商管理硕士学位。

1982年，他作为发展和计划管理部助理总监就职于旅游发展机构（TDC）。在这之前，他在一家汽车贸易公司履行短期合约经理的工作。

Mirza当时被委派任职德国公司的法兰克福办事处主管，负责欧洲的策略推广，随后也担任日本东京办事处主管。历经14年的职业生涯，他被提升为国际宣传推广部总监。

随后，2004年升任马来西亚旅游局副总监，最后2006年再晋级总监，他已在7届旅游部长属下服务，并目睹全球旅游和酒店趋势的转变。

“从我开始的那时期，业内人士还是以欧洲游客为中心，大多数游客来自欧洲或澳大利亚，当时，中国，印度和东盟国家并没有被视为旅游业的主要来源。”

如今局势已经转变，现在的旅游业是多元区域，东盟国家目前是工作重点，而马来西亚位于中心点，得到来自新加坡、文莱，印尼，泰国和中国游客的关注。

“品牌就是一切，15年前我们通过主题”真实亚洲”告诉全世界，他们可以找到个好范本，在马来西亚，不同民族可以保留本身文化和生活方式的地方，并且和睦相处，建设国家。”

他说，谈到旅游服务价值，从酒店到购物与餐饮，马来西亚是世界上为最吸引人的地方之一。

旅游业是与好时光挂钩的行业，马来西亚旅游业的排名上升情况令人难忘。他特别怀念1990年，1994年，2007年与2014年的马来西亚旅游年。可是，当发生一些未知的灾祸或悲剧时，也容易造成挫折，这些状况往往阻挡了游客到访。

以2014年为例，他们作好万全准备，以实现2800万到访人次的目标。随着发生空气霾害，大规模的洪水天灾和治安事故，都让一切付诸流水。他说，当出现这些状况，只能尽快加倍努力去克服。
他相信这个行业持续增长，到了2020年实现3600万游客到访目标，而在旅游转型计划下，希望有1680亿令吉的总收益，超过目前的两倍。

而他从未想过抽离旅游行业或转行，非常愿意与年轻一代分享知识和经验，使他们也能在迈入这个行业更充分准备面对未来几年的挑战。

“那些踏入旅游行业的年轻一代需要更了解幕后工作与后台操作的策划准备，在享受成果之前，必须打好幕后基础。”

这名已历经22年婚姻生活，拥有3名孩子的父亲说，每到节假日期间，他们需要牺牲自己的休息时间，确保游客拥有美好的旅程，因此他估计休闲的日子可能要等到退休那一天。

“旅游是未来前进的产业，也是全世界不断增长的领域。在未来几年，技术，经济和治安的进步将缩短世界的距离，让更多人出行。”

他认为，这将有助于连接人们，通过欣赏与了解彼此的文化，朝着共同目标一起努力，构建和谐社会，让世界变得更美好。

Captains & Legends, EZ 41, EZ 61 (2), Vol 41

Staged for Stardom 璀璨盛开

January 26, 2016 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Joanne Yew
Malaysian Artiste

Locally produced blockbuster “The Journey” released in 2014, whilst having reeled in positive reviews for her lead role as Ah Bee, marks Joanne Yew’s debut into film. The icing to the cake was the eye-opening discovery that blood is indeed thicker than water. Taking on the part taught her plenty on a personal level as well as helped her become more appreciative of her family and the bond shared with those whom she knows care deeply about her.

PICTURE PERFECT

Thanks to the vast exposure gained in conjunction with the aforementioned milestone, she feels exceedingly humbled by the privilege to have starred in a production that went onto to put her on the map. As she prepares for her next project, Yew has set aside some time to pursue a season of leisurely travel with loved ones. Although the opportunity for respite in now within reach, her career is every bit a demanding undertaking.

Naturally, the tremendous success she currently enjoys wasn’t built overnight. Equipped with the determination to attain perfection with every career-inspired endeavour, each take on set regardless of length of shoot, is executed with absolute finesse to the point of faultlessness. On top of being a meticulous doer, Yew relishes acting roles that are the complete opposite of her personality; a good challenge easily gets her motor running.

Funny business

Unsurprisingly, new experiences inspire her, creating room for self-improvement. As much as this is true, Yew’s next desired feat to tackle is venturing into the comedic aspect of television. As easy as the genre might appear, it entails the personification of precise body language and subtle emotions to elevate a character and scene. Clearly it isn’t for everyone, considering the rigorous technique and skill level involved in flawless embodiment.

Believing she has what it takes, the actress intends to expand her portfolio to include comedy. In addition, fascinated by her brave yet elegant style, Yew aspires to someday work with TV giant Jun Ji Hyun, and won’t rest until the dream is realised. Seeing that The Journey has been by far her biggest accomplishment, many doors have since opened, enabling her to explore new territories and un-turn stones previously foreign.

Journeying beyond

Incidentally, her latest movie dubbed ATM added the avenue to rub shoulders with the entertainment industry’s elite of Hong Kong, many of whom she’d had wanted to work with. Although she hasn’t given it much thought, she is open to the idea of taking to Hong Kong should the opportunity arise. However, being a Chinese who is fluent Korean, she is certainly looking to expand her presence into the said Eastern market.

Being a multi-tasking talent is no easy feat—especially since she is both an actress and a model. Juggling the two different yet similar careers comes down to meticulous time management and absolute camera-readiness. Yet, she favours the former over the latter. “I prefer acting as I find playing someone’s life more enticing. It isn’t easy to adapt to a character in an audience-worthy manner, so acting is a very interesting process,” Yew tells Essenze.

“Off the set, Yew takes pleasure in relaxing at home; it is why her abode is a sanctuary that celebrates her favourite music as well as need for sensually-pleasing aromatics and uninterrupted bliss for the ultimate encounter with tranquility.”

Limelight worthy

Despite her widespread success and the glamour associated with her line of work, the film star confesses that had she not ventured into the aforementioned arenas, she would have delved into sales and marketing with a focus on skincare. As to why, she says servicing a client in need and offering helpful advice on good product choices are an appealing proposition. But for the time being, she’s set on taking her acting to even greater heights.

For her, being a public figure literally means having to be in the spotlight all the time, which itself poses its own challenges. In fact, the hardest part she notes is, having to introspectively determine ways to better herself in every aspect of her job and self. The perpetual scrutiny is something she is always mindful of; one misstep and it could signify the end of the road. Therefore, her commitment to positivism helps her maintain a healthy attitude and outlook.

BUILT FOR COMFORT

Off the set, Yew takes pleasure in relaxing at home; it is why her abode is a sanctuary that celebrates her favourite music as well as need for sensually-pleasing aromatics and uninterrupted bliss for the ultimate encounter with tranquility. Busy or not, nothing takes priority over her family; they’re the reward which matters to her the most. Finally, as she is an avid fan of property development, a personal aim is to develop her personal concept of the perfect dwelling place.

2014年上映的马来西亚温馨国产电影“一路有你”，尤凤音演出的“阿美”这个角色引来各方瞩目。在历经五味俱全的探索之旅后，终于发现血浓于水的事实，这段珍贵旅程提升了尤凤音的个人思考层面，更珍惜自己的家庭，懂得与关心她的人分享点滴。

完美影像
在这部堪称她的个人里程碑电影后，尤凤音获得更显著的注目，对此她感到荣幸。下一个计划，除了悠闲旅行与家人相聚，即使现在机会不断，但她对于职业生涯带有苛刻的承诺。

目前成功并非一夜促成，她拥有决心与启发，努力达到完美。而与荧幕上形象反差的是：尤凤音现实中是一丝不苟的人，但挑战与性格完全相反的的角色，会激起她堪称千层浪般的斗志。

全新经历也成就自我提升与创造了空间。她渴望下一次能够参与喜剧或者情景电视制作，类似题材需要精确的身体语言和微妙情感，相当考验应变能力与讲究演技水平。

为了扩大演绎范围，她也希望接拍更多作品包括喜剧。韩国电视剧女王全智贤勇敢而优雅的格调是钦慕所在，期待有天能与后者一起工作，在实现这个梦想之前不会轻易言休。从“一路有你”看到她至今的最好成就，往后她也将探索新领域或海外的邀约挑战。

超越路程
她最新电影“提款机”与香港的资深演员如夏雨、鲍起静等同台共演，虽然她未有提供想法和意见，但保持开放心态，等待机会闪现。作为一名华人，她曾在韩国大学修学，说得流利的韩语，她希望在东方市场可以逐渐扩大知名度。

除了是一名演员，她同时也是模特。在两个不同的时期，工作共同点是细致时间管理和绝对专业的镜头感。然而，她倾向于前者。“我更喜欢演戏，因为“渗透”别人的生活更好玩诱人。演出让观众印象深刻的角色不容易，是有趣的过程。”

聚光灯下
尽管目前的成功与表演的魅力脱不了关系，但如果没从事影视行业，她会选择深入钻研护肤品营销。她说，为客户提供服务和有用的建议，让他们选择适用的产品会带来满足感。可是，暂时目前，她会把重心放在提高演技水平。

作为公众人物，就必须意识时刻处在聚光灯下，这也构成本身挑战。事实上，关于最困难的部分，她指出，勿忘初心，发掘和确定自己更好的一面，尤其是自我审查，因为一失足，意味着这条路已经到头，因此，保持健康的态度和外观是必须的。

建立舒适
在家的时刻是最放松的，她的住家是一个圣地，聆听着自己喜欢的音乐，个人时光拥有不间断的幸福感。忙碌或不忙，没有什么比她的家庭更重要。由于还热衷参与房产业务，个人目标是推展她的个人完美居所概念。

Captains & Legends, EZ 41, EZ 61 (2), Vol 41

Chalking Up Class 飞跃晋级

January 26, 2016 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Dr. Elizabeth Lee Fuh Yen

Senior Executive Director of Sunway Education Group

Born in Singapore, raised in Malaysia, educated in America, and trained in the UK, this recipient of India’s Visionary Women Leadership Award is a history-maker with lessons to teach. Deborah Joy Peter takes notes.

When contemplating the multifarious choreography indicative of Dr. Elizabeth Lee Fuh Yen’s passage through academia, the 1995 hit Ironic comes to mind. Absent ripped jeans, ombre vibe, and beanie on head, she is no Alanis Morissette. Yet, the multi award-winning Sunway Education Group (SEG) senior executive director, having by now tucked about 30 years under her belt, is by every stretch of the imagination, some indelible version of a rockstar.

ABOVE BOARD

Exposed to the field at a time when teaching was considered a white collar job with blue collar pay, she could have steered clear, but didn’t. Told that the profession was befitting of a lady just because the hours were short and its nature family-friendly, the career chaser should have reconsidered; instead she stood her ground. When the offer to practice in the United Kingdom was extended, it made sense to accept only she wouldn’t.

“I wanted to be involved with something rooted in multi-cultural studies, and therefore opted to major in English. It allowed me to return to Malaysia and serve my country by bringing the language home. That much was clear. I wanted to come back although I had something called a DES number and still do, which permits me to teach in the UK,” the SEG veteran explains, adding that infusing passion into teaching has been an endless pursuit.

Honour roll

Is there anything to suggest that the virtuoso described above isn’t every degree of audacious? Whether it was admirable persistence or sheer stubbornness only she knew, but when it came to crucial life decisions, Lee always chose going against the grain. Perhaps, being Singaporean-born had something to do with it, but the Kuala Lumpur raised educationist turned administrator is nothing if not a woman on a mission to revolutionise an entire industry.

Herself a Bukit Bintang Girls School alumnus, the Doctorate of Laws holder-an honorary title granted her by Nottingham University to mark the industry’s highest tribute-has been instrumental to Sunway’s evolution from a college to a full-fledged education group. Having served with the marque since 1992, she has spent more than two decades carving out its niche as one of the most prestigious institutes of higher learning across the world stage.

Top tier

“We have different education institutions now. We have Sunway University and Sunway College. They are very separate. Next, we have Sunway Le Cordon Bleu, our institute

of culinary arts. It is the Le Cordon Bleu of Paris. Then, we have the Sunway International School. Also, recent years have seen truly rewarding partnerships forged with numerous globally-acclaimed institutes like Monash and Cambridge.”

In fact, Sun-U brought the Oxford Symposium to Malaysia in 2015, where for first time the conference was hosted in the heart of Southeast Asia, reeling in the participation of a great multitude of students and teachers. In the same token, the 2014 Asia Leadership Camp aimed at impacting young leaders that rolled out in collaboration with Harvard proved a momentous feat for the brand as well.

“My credo changes every day. It’s never the same thing. You know those Keep calm and … expressions? It’s very fitting, I think. Sometimes, I tell frustrated parents that the children will grow up. They do grow up. So it is this idea of keeping calm and letting the moment pass.”

EASTERN DISTINCTION

While she began as associate director before being named executive director some time later, in her current and latest capacity, her myriad of duties includes looking at strategy in terms SEG’s positioning, direction, and next phase. Sharing in chairman and founder, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah’s vision, Lee opened up about the group’s ultimate goal to emerge as the ‘Harvard of the East.’ But what does that mean exactly?

“It basically means that Sunway University will become a force to be reckoned with in education, so that it is recognisable and internationally renowned. Over here, when Harvard is mentioned, everyone knows. So if we’re over there and Sun-U is mentioned, everyone will know. That’s what we mean by Harvard of the East—that we’re a credible institution marked by our stamp of distinction,” Dr. Lee reveals while gleaming in sheer excitement.

当注视着李馥彦博士陈述着她纵横学术界的各式各样繁琐经历，令人想起1995的流行歌曲“讽刺”，但没有破洞牛仔裤、渲染氛围或有小圆帽在头上，她不是Alanis Morissette。然而，这名获奖无数的双威教育集团高级执行董事，30年来深藏功与名，与摇滚巨星一样具有不可磨灭的代表性。出生于新加坡，马来西亚成长，前往美国接受教育，在英国接受培训，她是印度“远见女性领袖奖”的获奖者，也是历史创造者。

在旧时期，教学被认为是蓝领薪资收入的白领工作，但她没有刻意回避。这个职业适合女性，时间短又是面向家庭。而当英国实习的申请被延后，她才有了接受的意识。

“学校是一个奇妙的地方，无论你是否喜欢，但学生们从错误和测试的边界学习。有时候，他们会走错，但他们必须得到明确的方向。”

“我想扎根于多元文化的研究工作，因此选择英语专业。当我回到马来西亚，也是将语文带回家与报效祖国。我想回来，虽然我有所谓DES number(师资培训)在进行中，这能让我在英国教学。” 她补充说，把热情投入教学一直是她无止境的追求。

无论是因为具备令人钦佩的毅力或纯粹的固执，只有她自己知道。但在人生重大决定关口，李馥彦总是做出背道而驰的选择。出生在新加坡，但她却在吉隆坡教育集团执行管理任务，成为行业中稀有的女性教育家。

她作为吉隆坡武吉免登女校的校友，同时获得诺丁汉大学授予的最高敬意-法学博士学位荣誉称号，而采取针对性的政策，让双威从一家高等学府蜕变为全面的教育集团。自1992年开始的服务与品牌意识，以 20多年积极的创业心态打造双威成为登上世界舞台的高等学府。

“我的信念每天都在改变，
没有重复性，适当的冷静和表达。有时候，我告诉沮丧的学生家长，孩子长大了，他们也必须跟着成长。因此，这也是保持瞬间冷静的方法。”

站上顶层
“我们现在有多元层次的教育机构，设有独立的大学和学院校园。接下来，我们有双威巴黎蓝带厨艺学院，也是来自巴黎的蓝带厨艺。然后，近年来双威国际学校也与具备价值的合作伙伴或全球知名机构合作，如剑桥与莫纳什大学。”

事实上，2015年双威将牛津研讨会带来马来西亚，这是类似研讨会首次在南洋中心举行，这个文教盛典引来众多学生和教师的参与。而在2014年举办的亚洲领导干部训练营，是与国际名校哈佛合作的项目，培育年轻领导人，这是重大壮举。

当她开始任命为执行董事，以本身的能力担任多项职责，包括寻找双威教育集团下一阶段的定位、方向和策略。而她也与董事长兼创始人丹斯里谢富年博士共享愿景，最终目标是成为“东方哈佛”。

“基本上意味着双威大学将成为不可忽视的教育力量，哈佛是家喻户晓的名校，而我们的目标是让每个人都知道双威大学，这就是所谓的东方哈佛，我们是一个可靠的机构，具备与众不同的标志印记。” 说到这里，李馥彦的目光热情闪烁。

Captains & Legends, EZ 41, EZ 61 (2), Vol 41

Fair Businesswoman goes for Italian Flair 美丽女企业家转向意大利风情

January 26, 2016 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Dato’ Dr Wenddi Anne Chong
Owner of Marianis@7
images by Dato’ Kee Hua Chee

At first or even second glance, Dato’ Dr Wenddi Anne Chong looks like an archetypal IT Girl, rich tai-tai or spoiled daughter of millionaire with her 3 supercars. She is neither as she is basically a self-made, self-written success story. Though hailing from a well-off family, she takes great pride in buying the Porsche 911 Turbo S, Ferrari 430 Spyder and Lamborghini Gallardo with her own funds. And entering history as Malaysia’s first and only female restauranteur to own this trio of supercars.

Looking at the fashionably clad, perennial habitant of best-dressed lists, one can scarcely believe Dato’ Dr Wenddi Anne Chong graduated as mechanical engineer! True to form, that did not last long as she preferred visiting clubs and horse races in feathery hats than construction sites in hard hats!

I also modelled as back in the Eighties, you did not need to be 178 cm to model, I wanted to see the world but dad refused to finance a year of nonstop travel and accommodation so I joined Singapore Airlines! ”

Born in Malaysia, her parents moved to Singapore at 8 but she is now Malaysian resident. She joined Singapore’s Ministry of Education as public relations officer after abandoning engineering. While clubbing, she was enamoured with deejaying and with her natural sparkling personality, was swiftly scouted and trained by Juliana’s of London to be Singapore’s first batch of female deejays, spinning tracks at Xanadu in Shangri-la, then Singapore’s hottest joint.

Twelve years later she left as Chief Stewardess and Trainer. “I was Best Trainee of 1996 and my name is still in the honor board of SIA Training Centre.” She decamped to Kuala Lumpur in 1990 to be with her beau and co-founded Damansara Fertility Clinic which evolved into Damansara Women’s Specialist Centre which morphed into TMC Fertility Centre which was public listed in 2005.

Dato’ Dr Wenddi Anne Chong was co-founder, shareholder and executive director of TMC Life Sciences involved in fertility clinics, stem cell therapy, medical storage and laboratories listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia. She implemented training programmes and during her time TMC Life Sciences achieved major milestones of which she is justifiably proud.

She also currently helping to spearhead healthcare tourism with Malaysia’s Ministry of Health, MATRADE, MIDA and Malaysia Tourism Board. She is advisory committee member of Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council, PEMANDU and Negeri Sembilan Chinese Maternity Hospital.

She is a member of International Society for Stem Cell Research, American Society of Reproductive Medicine, European Society of Human Reproduction and Embroyology, Women Institute of Management, Kiwanis Club and Lions Club which awarded her their coveted International Recognition Award by Lion’s International President.

Despite her hectic schedule, she finds time for energetic fund-raising for Yayasan Tuanku Nur Zahirah, Tunku Azizah Fertility Foundation, Rumah HOPE, Ipoh Children’s Home and other deserving causes and charities.

Her list of awards and achievements include ARFF Women Entrepreneur of 2010, Business Excellence Award for Best Company in Science and Technology, ASEAN Technology Business Review CEO Award, L’Oreal Woman of Excellence, Women’s Weekly Woman of Excellence, CHT Entrepreneur Award in Healthcare and Woman of Substance by Malaysia Tatler alongside Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Tan Sri Francis Yeoh, Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong and Tan Sri Tony Fernandes.

She was included in Malaysia’s 10 Most Influential and Stylish Personalities 2010 and accorded Most Stylish Muse 2010.

Now residing in Ipoh, Dato’ Dr Wenddi Anne Chong operates and owns Marianis@7, touted as best value fine dining Italian restaurant in Ipoh.

“I love Italian food, fashion and architecture and my partner Khim used to work for an Italian restaurant chain so opening an Italian restaurant comes naturally. Oh, I also love Italian sports cars!”

如果仅凭第一眼感觉，拿督蔣慧瑩看起来就像一个IT女白领、典型富太太或被宠坏的百万富翁女儿，加上3部超级跑车的衬托。事实上，她是自己谱写成功故事的精英女性。虽然出自富裕家庭，但所拥有的保时捷 911 Turbo S、法拉利 430 Spyder 和兰博基尼 Gallardo 系列是靠自己赚回来，成为马来西亚首名配置超级跑车的餐厅女老板。

外表时髦、常年入驻时尚服装榜内，无人相信蔣慧瑩是机械工程专业。不过，比起工地帽，她更喜欢戴着优雅羽毛帽穿梭俱乐部和赛马活动。出生于马来西亚，父母已定居新加坡，但她至今是大马公民，曾在放弃工程后加入新加坡教育部作为公关部官员。在夜店里，她迷恋担任DJ，由于自然闪耀的特质，在伦敦的Juliana’s训练下成为新加坡第一批女性DJ，参与新加坡夜店节目。

“曾在80年代做过模特儿，其实无需178cm身高。”她回忆表示，虽然想看世界,但父亲拒绝资助她每年不间断的旅行和住宿费，所以她加入新加坡航空。12年后，她带着首席空姐和教员的荣誉离开。“我是1996年最佳学员，名字仍挂在新航培训中心荣誉榜上。”她于1990年移居吉隆坡，与伙伴共创白沙罗助孕诊所，再转为白沙罗妇女专科中心，最终演变为2005年上市的丽阳助孕
中心。

作为创始人之一，她同时担任TMC生命科学(助孕中心)的股东和执行董事，业务范畴涵括人工受孕、干细胞疗法，医学存储和实验室，并在马来西亚股票交易所主板上市。她感到自豪的是在TMC期间实施的培训项目跨越重大里程碑。

目前协助马来西亚卫生部、MATRADE，MIDA和马来西亚旅游局的医疗旅游项目进行推广。她同时是马来西亚医疗旅游委员会、PEMANDU和森美兰州华人接生医院的咨询委员会成员。

她也是国际干细胞研究学会、美国生育医学协会、欧洲人类生育与坯胎学、女性管理学院、Kiwanis Club的会员，而作为国际狮子会成员，她获得梦寐以求的国际认可奖，由国际狮子会总会长颁发。尽管繁忙，她还是为Tuanku Nur Zahirah基金会、Tunku Azizah助孕基金会、希望之家，怡保儿童之家等公益事业与慈善机构出力或筹募基金。

她接受的奖励与成就包括2010年ARFF最佳女性企业家、科技领域最佳公司-商业卓越奖、东盟科技商业评论CEO大奖、欧莱雅卓越女性奖、每周女性卓越女性奖、CHT大奖保健领域企业家奖，《尚流》杂志马来西亚版选为实质女性，并与前首相敦马哈迪医生、丹斯里杨肃斌，丹斯里林梧桐和丹斯里Tony Fernandes等相提并论。

她也曾入围2010年马来西亚十大最具影响和时尚风格榜。蔣慧瑩目前定居在怡保，并经营一家名为Marianis@7，深具口碑的意大利餐厅。“我热爱意大利菜、时尚与建筑，而我的拍档Khim曾在一家意大利餐厅连锁店工作，所以经营一家意大利餐厅好像理所当然。哦，我也喜欢意大利跑车!” 而她固定穿梭于怡保-吉隆坡，家中有6只狗狗，享受着温馨的生活。

“我热爱意大利菜、时尚与建筑，而我的拍档Khim曾在一家意大利餐厅连锁店工作，所以经营一家意大利餐厅好像理所当然。哦，我也喜欢意大利跑车!”

Captains & Legends, EZ 40, EZ 61 (2), Vol 40

Standing the Test of Time

September 29, 2015 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Austen Wong & Kevin Wong

Director & Asst. to Director of Woo Hing Brothers Watch Merchant (PENANG) Sdn. Bhd.

by Jeremy Tan

EVOLVING over the years but staying true to its core expertise, Woo Hing Brothers Penang has forged a truly timeless reputation as a choice purveyor of quality timepieces in the heart of George Town.

First established in 1950 along Campbell Street, one of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city’s oldest commercial precincts, the family business is now in its fourth generation and attracts a loyal yet discerning clientele.

Austen Wong, who now runs the company as director, has been at the helm since 1978. Son Kevin came aboard a year ago, and together, they constantly explore new business avenues and tap into different markets to keep the success going.

According to the elder Wong, the name Woo Hing Brothers has a long heritage in the Malaysian watch-retailing scene. It all started in the early 1920s when his grandfather started a small shop in Johor amidst the booming luxury import industry.

An unfortunate fire accident saw the business relocated to Singapore by the 1930s, which significantly broadened its client base. Two decades later, his father Wong Siong Toon, along with three brothers and a sister, were running the business and capitalised on an expansion opportunity in Penang. The rest was history.

“Our business was primarily wholesale at first, but eventually focused on importing a range of low to high end luxury watches, purpose-built stopwatches and fine writing instruments.”

“We retailed for many Swiss-made watch brands and had the fun experience of selling and tuning imported, ornate grandfather clocks from Germany and Italy.”

“Over the decades there was a gradual transformation of the business and in 2008 were-invented ourselves as a boutique for two of the world’s most coveted luxury watch brands, Rolex and Tudor.”

“This showroom has been our base since day one, even before Malaysia gained her independence. The building, built much earlier, survived the Japanese occupation and has seen at least three renovations. We will continue to build on these foundations well into the future,” Austen says.

When he first took over, Campbell Street was full of family-run retail and wholesale businesses, dealing in medicine, jewellery, textiles, footwear, general merchandise, watches and more. While some of those still remain today, many have since been replaced by cafes and boutique hotels as the lifestyles of Penangites become increasingly sophisticated.

“Concentrating on our primary expertise has been key to our longevity. Diversifying never felt the right tactic. We know what we do best and stick to it”

-Austen Wong

Kevin, who ‘grew up’ surrounded by clocks and their chimes, is delighted to return to his roots and carry on the family legacy. He left for Melbourne, Australia, for studies a decade ago, and subsequently worked in human resources before deciding to take up the mantle here.

“When you’re overseas, you begin to appreciate things you have at home more, and not many have the option of a family business to be involved in. With it being successful for three generations already, you wonder what else you can contribute.

“While I’ve been around clocks and watches all my life, since I entered the business, I’ve developed a deeper passion in their intricacies. Quality timepieces are well crafted works of art that not only help you tell the time, but also reflect your personality.

“Some enjoy the finer things in life and are able to do so, and we take pride in catering to their needs,” notes Kevin, now 28.

“Our lives revolve around meaningful activities – ranging from leisure to family and work. One thing constant across all those is time, and watches remind us of the precious moments we spend on them.”

– Kevin Wong

Though larger watch outlets and chains are prevalent across shopping centres nowadays, he finds the more personalised experience accorded to customers that comes with being a standalone entity, highly rewarding.

“We seek to build long-term relationships with our clientele. We are able to engage with them personally, address their points of view, and help them make the right choices. Most importantly, they walk away happy.

“Even if they do not purchase anything during their visit, we try to ensure they leave getting something, even if it is as simple as a better understanding or appreciation of their favourite timepieces,” Kevin adds.

Woo Hing Brothers Penang’s offerings encompass a vast range of the two brands’ luxury pieces, and cater to various preferences.

Visit their boutique at No. 96 Campbell Street, George Town, 10100 Penang, Malaysia, anytime between 10.30am and 6.30pm from Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays and Public Holidays). For more information, you may call 04-2615287.

Captains & Legends, EZ 40, EZ 61 (2), Vol 40

Head over Heels

September 29, 2015 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Dr. Ryan Cheong & Stefanie Chua
BSc(Hons) MBBS(Imperial) AICSM & Professional Model

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to measure a woman’s worth. Sometimes, a surgeon operates just as well in such an instance. Deborah Joy Peter learns how one physician and beauty queen become joined at the hip to celebrate a love that is more than merely skin-deep.

While a proud son of the famed Pearl of the Orient, 2005 saw Penang native Ryan Cheong leave an entire childhood behind, only to exit his home country in pursuit of what was to become a vastly decorated career in the field of professional medicine. Bound for the United Kingdom, the then healthcare novice, with his sights set on England, travelled westward to kick-start the next chapter of his existence and has since spent the past decade building a career dedicated to treating the ailed.

BUSINESS AND PLEASURE
As well as being the first ever Malaysian elected president of Imperial College London’s Surgical Society, the two-time Royal Society of Medicine (London) national award recipient was once even sponsored by British Petroleum to participate in an expedition to Antarctica to hold forums centred round climate change and sustainability. In addition to the above, Cheong has also in the past spoken at multiple internationally-held medical conferences, covering territories such as Milan, Hawaii, London and across the UK.

His steady string of vocational exploits aside, at the time of his arrival in his brand new surroundings, little did the licensed healer realise that five years into the journey, life would take an unanticipated turn to unveil the pleasant surprise which fate had in store. In 2010, during a scheduled visit to Malaysia to reconnect with family, the practising surgeon, through an introduction by a mutual friend, became acquainted with a feminine sensation with legs that stretched all the way to China and quickly succumbed to her lady-like charms.

PERFECT CHEMISTRY
By then, Stefanie Chua, a pageantry enthusiast turned high-fashion model, was already a personality positioned at the top of her trade. “I started off by joining beauty pageants at the national level and soon after hit the international stage. My career took off after I won a title at the 2009 Miss World Malaysia installation,” she tells Essenze. Geographically-speaking, her choice of profession serves as an opportunity of a lifetime and has thus far taken the luscious lass to Istanbul, Bali, Ghana, London, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Interestingly, the booming beauty takes after her mother-in-law, Erlinna Tan, who herself was an unforgettable presence in the modelling industry back in the day. Therefore, it made absolute sense when Cheong and Chua went from being good friends to an item; an exclusive courtship that lasted five years before wedding bells rang for the two. A union celebrated in celestial affair at Penang’s Eastern & Oriental Hotel, the newlyweds enjoyed an evening that interwove accents of classical Rome with that of ancient Italy.

AISLE TO CHILD
Admittedly, Cheong has constantly felt drawn to the workings of the human body. “As a kid, I always ended up in the anatomy section during library excursions. The pursuit of knowledge and skill combined, I find, pierce the veil between life and death and therefore, its theory and practical applications are something I am only too glad to lend my passion to,” he shares. Only now, the husband-and-wife team has taken the said fascination a step further by venturing into parenthood.

Together, they have a teeny tot named Reia; the firstborn daughter who remains a precious marker of the couple’s matrimonial bliss, while trust, tolerance, and gratitude continue to serve as pillars of fortitude within their cheery home. On the matter of family, the new mum finds solace in the embrace of familial support. “Living abroad and being far away from home is a challenge. Mother would fly to London for months at the time when our child was first born to take care of her and that made a significant difference.”

FAMILY RECIPE
Today, the tenacious threesome have built a life for themselves in London, where the bustling careers and homey household of the good doctor and his mesmerising missus continue to thrive. Busy or not, both individuals remain true to each other as two halves make a whole. Their secret? “We love trying new cuisines and catching up on the latest movies and musicals. We also enjoy exploring the world together and have so far explored Santorini, Rome, Paris, Windermere, Hawaii and Zermatt as a twosome,” Chua offers.

Being a doctor calls for an entire career of learning and developing. A key feat for me was being pitted against the best and brightest of the British healthcare population at every level of progression. It’s been a challenging yet formative experience.”– Ryan Cheong

“As a model, one has the opportunity to embody various brands and we often become the first image the public associated with. There is a lot of hard work involved. Yet, the creative process and success that originates from every effort makes it worth it.” – Stefanie Chua

Captains & Legends, EZ 39, EZ 39, EZ 61 (2), Vol 39

Creative Mind with Heart

September 25, 2015 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Melisa Wong

Octagon Creative Founder & Managing Director

“As a student, I found that the way of the heart mattered; one follows the heart when taking decisions and action.”

BORN BOOMER

Perhaps, it was a wildly vivid imagination which dared her to dream or an insatiable artistic streak bubbling on the inside that challenged her to innovate, but in having kept an unwavering eye on the prize, the notable entrepreneur lives to tell her tale, now that the fat lady has sung. That which countless others would have dubbed a wearisome plot, she has braved and overcome with absolute poise.

Raising a self-made business from the ground up, conceptualising cutting-edge client solutions, and leading the charge on ingenuity combined, is no walk in the park. Nonetheless, at her hands, these milestones speak to a celestial path upon which work has often felt like play. A design virtuoso with a remarkable background in advertising, the former Ogilvy & Mather (O&M) apprentice has been a loyal visitor of creativity’s lair.

MASTER PAINTER

Retracing her steps up the corporate ladder, Wong’s recollections instantly return to the start of the trail. “In the 80s, upon graduating from art school in the UK, I completed a one-and-a-half-year spell in the US whereupon I worked first at a summer camp teaching art and photography in Maine (North America), and later moved on to a ceramics and design company in San Francisco,” she shares with Essenze.

The aforementioned professional engagements were followed up with a five-year stint at Johan Advertising (1983) and subsequently two years at international creative house, O&M (1988). Finally in 1990, in rising as the captain of her own ship, she unveiled a promising start-up which the industry recognises to this day as Octagon Creative Group. Since its launch into the open waters, the brand has steered Wong across the seven seas and back.

DREAM BUILDER

Speaking of going the distance, her journey has taken the award-winning team to multiple international exhibitions, key locations among them, Korea and Paris, with prominent works displayed at several major expos such as the Malaysia Pavilion and Venice Biennale both in 2012 and 2014. Essentially, Octagon’s success is rooted in a philosophy which insists that design be used as a vehicle to preserve heritage and build a healthy creative economy.

The past Graphic Design Association Malaysia president further elucidates: “As a student, I found that the way of the heart mattered; one follows the heart when taking decisions and action. After some experience has been gained, the head takes over, allowing one to visualise things and put matters into context. It is a time when one begins to understand that form follows function; the functional aspect is when forming client solutions becomes essential.”

“After some experience has been gained, the head takes over, allowing one to visualise things and put matters into context. It is a time when one begins to understand that form follows function; the functional aspect is when forming client solutions becomes essential.”

INSPIRED TROTTER

A subscriber of unity, love, and divinity, the mother of three, with the ultimate companion and business partner for a husband as well as truly nurturing parents for support, attributes a key portion of her personal and professional conquests to her loved ones. “When my children were growing up, my parents were instrumental in their progress and provided each with a healthy, happy environment.”

Leisure-wise, Wong finds solace in the embrace of photography, reading, writing, drawing, and even a bit of cooking. But her obsession with adventure doesn’t end there; she also enjoys architectural trips with the family. “For the next five years, I see myself at the forefront of graphic design, producing corporate branding, publication, visiting interesting installations, and moving into more digital and interactive media,” Wong enlightens.

Captains & Legends, EZ 39, EZ 39, EZ 61 (2), Vol 39

Taking the Lead in Banking

September 25, 2015 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Jenny Xu Zanjun

Deputy Chief Executive of Bank of China

“I do not want to disappoint those who placed their trust in me so I will always look to the future and do my best to earn and deserve their trust.”

The year 2011 is a turning point in Jenny Xu Zanjun’s career in banking, after having worked in the industry for more than 14 years. That was the year that she was thrust into a position most in the industry coveted, that is, to lead the Bank of China in Malaysia as its Deputy Chief Executive. Being chosen to lead the bank in a foreign land far from home is no easy task, especially when very few others get this chance, particularly women. However, for this determined 43-year-old, being given this position is a challenge that she took in her stride.

Xu admits that though the banking industry is not exactly male-dominated as compared to other more masculine-inclined industries, it is no walk in the park for women to climb the corporate ladder within the industry. The fact that very few women of high ranking positions are posted overseas in the Bank of China is proof that it takes sheer determination to make it to the top. “If a woman wants to climb to the top in the banking industry, she must perform exceptionally and she must also put in a lot of effort, hard work and determination, even more than her male counterpart,” she shares.

Naturally, for most women, many would have to divide their time between their family, marriage and their career which makes it even more challenging for them to succeed in the career. Sometimes, sacrifices are required for one to succeed and unfornately for Xu, it meant losing out on marriage and family life as she is now single. Nonetheless, the career woman did not regret choosing to concentrate more on her career. Instead of dwelling on what she doesn’t have, this strong-willed woman always looks towards the future. “I do not want to disappoint those who placed their trust in me so I will always look to the future, do my best to earn and deserve their trust and in turn, this gave me the strength to push on for the bank and for my career,” she said.

Bank of China opened its very first branch in Malaysia back in 1939 but it ceased operations about 20 years later. However, that is not the last of the Chinese bank in Malaysia as it reopened as a full-fledged commercial bank here in 2001. In all these years, the Bank of China has always emphasized on a customer-centric approach so when Xu took over the helm more than 4 years ago, she was faced with the challenge of ensuring that the bank is able to meet the expectations of its loyal clientele. “Many of our loyal clients look towards our bank as a symbol of China so they have very high expectations of first-class service and utmost professionalism,” she said.

Today, the challenges the bank faced is much more diverse than merely meeting customer expectations. Xu said leading a bank back in China where its services and systems have been perfected over the years is vastly different from leading the very same bank far away from China, in a land where banking systems are different and its services have to be changed to suit the locality. “The banking system in Malaysia are different from what is practised in China,” she explained. This is a challenge that she has to overcome when she first arrived here and even now, her focus has always been improving the bank’s system to provide exemplary services to its clients.

“We need to continuously improve our systems, the quality of our products and services because we are not only looking at the end profit but also working towards our goal of becoming a first-class sustainable international bank,”she said. The Bank of China has indeed left its mark in Malaysia as it played a pivotal role in promoting stronger bilateral trade between China and Malaysia. The bank has also spread its presence here with branches in Kuala Lumpur, Muar, Penang, Klang, Johor Bahru and Puchong. Furthermore, Bank of China was also the authorised bank to offer real-time gross settlement services in Renminbi through the Real-time Electronic Transfer of Funds and Settlement System (RENTAS).

Xu said the banking industry in Malaysia is a mature one now, which is why Bank of China has the confidence in setting up roots here while encouraging bilateral trades between China and Malaysia. She believed that through constant communication with the Malaysian government, it could play an important role to continue building closer trade connections between both countries. “The financial prospects in Malaysia is still bright because despite the devaluation of the ringgit in recent times, I think it is strong enough to overcome and rise above it,” she said. She noted that with Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz leading Bank Negara Malaysia as its governor, she is certain that Malaysia’s banking industry will stay stable and strong in years to come.

Captains & Legends, EZ 38, EZ 38, EZ 61 (2), Vol 38

POWERHOUSE with PANACHE

April 21, 2015 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Malaysia’s Pocket Dynamite, Prema Yin, is an entertainer with more passion and punch than a Flaming Lamborghini on New Year’s Eve. Deborah Joy Peter activates her all-access backstage pass for an exclusive tell-all with the spectacularly seasoned singing sensation.

At a time when her peers were either out chasing butterflies, having tea with Barbie or building towering sandcastles by the sea, then four-year-old songbird, Prema Yin, remembers laughing in the face of stage fright while belting out notes from a set of pipes whose origins often eluded many. Over two decades in, the wondering has stopped and the applause continues on in uproarious aplomb.

SELF-MADE SONGSTRESS

Then chasing the dream professionally at sixteen, the indie instrumentalist describes her immersion as an avenue for creative expression. Yin shares: “When I pour my emotions into the songs I sing, it feels like a weight is lifted off my shoulder, and more so when the lyrics hit home.” On a less sentimental note, her sense of fulfilment isn’t yet complete since career-wise, she insists the journey is only half-travelled. Still, she’s grateful to have been afforded the opportunity to develop as a musician.

DECORATED DIVA

One to keep the show going, as an artiste, she enjoys setting out in search of new landmarks to attain. It’s the very attitude which saw her go from snagging four prestigious nominations at the 17th Anugerah Industri Muzik showcase in 2010 to another at LA’s Hollywood Music in Media Awards under the Best Pop Song category only a year later. Following that, the rock diva was commissioned to perform at the 2013 Guinness Arthur’s Day Festival at the Sepang International Circuit.

Here, she opened for All American Rejects, The Wanted, and Five for Fighting. She’s also shared the stage with R&B icon Taio Cruz and done backup for soul sensation Colbie Caillat at least once. More than that, the effervescent entertainer made her mark taking on international tours across multiple countries including the US, Germany, China, Indonesia, Japan, and Singapore. Just as impressive are her vast airtime exposures on local and Indonesian radio as well as stellar chart successes across a period dating back to 2009.

EVOLVED EXECUTANT

“Besides luminaries like Sarah McLachlan, Aerosmith, and Janis Joplin, my inspiration comes from those who’ve left a mark on my life—past lovers, family, and friends.” Triumphs aside, Yin is constantly reminded of the debilitating hardships once endured. One such challenge was finance. “I invested my savings into my first EP hoping the investment would prove worthwhile. That pocket-emptying sacrifice coupled with not knowing where to start and what to do back then didn’t help.”

Rubbing salt into the wound, there were many who mocked her efforts and when put-downs were done in bad taste, the bitter pill became extremely hard to swallow. Luckily, with guidance and strength from a nurturing handful, her single Eyo Eyo went on to bag several noteworthy nominations and a feature in Hollywood film, A Novel Romance. Other originals such as Bleed, Superstar, and Prove It To Me, to name a few, still today serve as unforgettable markers of her mastery.

FUN-LOVING FEMME

Two years ago, in taking her crooning chronicles further, the star refined her stage identity from rolling rocker to cultural troubadour. The transformation allowed her to regain full autonomy of her creations and incorporate variety into her act by tapping into her Chinese and Indian cultural heritage. “It has helped me be me. I no longer feel the compulsion to fall into step with any particular persona or become someone I’m not, never mind turning into a mirror image of the symbol others want to see.”

The long-time singer-songwriter recently added to her repertoire video-making using stop motion animation and vocal coaching; she sees students weekly and makes house calls. Her first self-made lyric video was released in 2014 for Ring My Bell. More importantly, the 28-year-old visited Santorini in Greece last June—her dream destination. But when she isn’t away travelling, she has the age-old Chinese art of Wing Chun and the classical comfort of the veena to keep her occupied, both of which are her current top interests.

Captains & Legends, EZ 38, EZ 61 (2), EZ38, Vol 38

Fully Invested in Art

April 21, 2015 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

A successful artist …..”must be passionate about art, have some friends with the same interest, be familiar with the backgrounds of other artists and with the market value of their works.”

INTEREST in artworks as a form of investment is growing throughout the region, thanks to the wealth of indigenous talent, and the burgeoning ranks of eager collectors. But though many see it as having relatively low risk, it still helps to be knowledgeable about the industry.

Masterpiece Auction House Managing Director Dato’ Oon Pheng Khoon believes it is vital that one is passionate about art, have some friends with the same interest, be familiar with the backgrounds of various artists, as well as the market value of their works.

Those eager to start collecting should also regularly attend art exhibitions, previews and auctions – as they provide ample lessons about the buying and selling of art, and which artists or artworks, are in demand or otherwise. And best of all, they are mostly free to attend.

“Prices of art are always fluctuating, so it helps to be familiar with the bidding process, and understand the value behind each piece. Serious collectors track artists’ backgrounds, career progression and standing within the art scene, as it influences the value of their works,” said Oon in a recent interview.

Senior artists tend to be in favour, as are those with positions in art-related fields and institutions, as they often end up painting for life. Some collectors also favour works done in certain mediums, for they last longer and degrade less over time, hence representing a more solid investment.

“Good works may be pricey, but its value appreciates. Artists who are regularly featured in auctions are a good bet, as it shows their works are constantly in demand. If you buy a piece today, and there’s someone else willing to acquire it from you immediately, then you know you’ve got a gem.

“Collecting art is as good a investment compared to traditional options like stocks, properties or commodities. It is mobile, and you can buy or sell it anywhere. Art is also a finite thing, each piece is truly one-of-a-kind, and their availability gets less and less over time.

“You hardly see the best works from prominent names on the market, because they have all been snapped up by collectors once they become available. But besides the monetary value, collecting art also means you have excellent treasures to look at everyday,” he added.

Oon, who was born in Alor Setar, Kedah, fell into art almost by chance. Educated at Keat Hwa Secondary School, he worked in the construction, shipping and transportation industries during the 1980s, followed by real estate in the 1990s.

Around that time, many in Kedah started collecting Chinese ink paintings as a hobby. Oon followed suit and never looked back. After China opened its doors to the world in 1993, he would regularly venture there to meet renowned artists, and buy their works.

“We would read a lot of art magazines and find out who the good artists were, and then approach them. At that time it was hard for them to sell their works, so they very receptive towards our interest,” he recalled of the time when he developed a passion in buying and selling art.

Also in the 1990s, art auctions started in Singapore, and he would regularly attend to broaden his knowledge. Indonesian artists were all the rage back then, but once art auctions started in Malaysia in the 2000s, local artists soon found a great platform to promote their works and excel.

In 2005, Oon relinquished all his directorial positions at his former companies, to concentrate on the buying and selling of art. He was roped in by Masterpiece Auction House when it established its Kuala Lumpur branch in 2012, with the company holding its first auction a year later.

Five auctions later and the company had sold over 800 pieces of art worth approximately RM15million, with a take-up rate averaging close to 90%. Other auction houses are enjoying similar results, and Oon believes the industry can only get better and better.

“It has grown steadily, and the number of art collectors today has increased four or five-fold, compared to a decade ago. Many lesser known Malaysian artists have now become prominent names, as the buying power and interest amongst collectors increase.

“I feel it is my responsibility to help promote Malaysian artists, and I’m now enjoying my life doing just that,” he sums it up succinctly.