Tag Archives: FEATURED

EZ 75 - Cover Story

Lifelong Commitment to Improving Lives

Dato’ Lau Beng Long

President, Sunway Healthcare Group

“To serve society through healthcare is not just a career;
it is a calling that demands commitment and heart.”

For Dato’ Lau Beng Long, President of Sunway Healthcare Group (SHG), healthcare was never simply a career choice. It was a calling — one that evolved into a four-decade journey of building institutions, shaping cultures, and contributing to the nation’s healthcare landscape.

Witnessing his parents’ struggle with illness, he understood from a young age just how deeply quality healthcare shapes lives. “That belief stayed with me and guided every career decision I made,” he reflects.

Dato’ Lau began with a degree in Biology — a foundation that gave him insight into disease, prevention and treatment. His career path would later span public service, for-profit healthcare, and not-for-profit institutions in Malaysia and Singapore, exposing him to diverse operating models and leadership philosophies.

Dato’ Lau sharing insights with stakeholders as he reviews a scale model of Sunway Healthcare Group’s developments — translating long-term vision into carefully planned healthcare infrastructure.

That breadth of experience proved critical when he joined Sunway Healthcare Group to plan and commission its first hospital, the flagship Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC), in 1997. Since then, he has played a central role in expanding SMC from 200 beds to five towers with 848 beds today, becoming Malaysia’s largest private hospital that has recently been named No.1 in Malaysia and ranked 138th globally, according to Newsweek World’s Best Hospitals 2026 rankings. Dato’ Lau is also the first Malaysian healthcare leader to be inducted into Newsweek’s exclusive CEO Circle, a recognition that celebrates 100 of the top healthcare CEOs globally.

Under Dato’ Lau’s leadership, SHG has evolved into an integrated healthcare network with comprehensive offerings, from quaternary and tertiary hospitals in Damansara, Cheras, Penang and Ipoh, to ambulatory and complementary care centres such as Sunway TCM Centre, Sunway Home Healthcare, Sunway Fertility Centre and Sunway Sanctuary, a senior living residence. Further expansions are in the pipeline, as SHG works towards having a network of ten hospitals and hence increasing its total bed count to over 3400 by 2032.

Dato’ Lau working closely with management and project teams to shape and guide Sunway Healthcare Group’s hospital expansions.

For Dato’ Lau, however, sustainable healthcare excellence is built on leadership, standards and trust. As SHG scales, his priority has been to ensure that the organisation’s mission, values and culture of clinical expectations remain consistent across every facility.

“Health professionals and leaders must strive to uphold the “soul” or spirit of a traditional hospital – with a focus on not just treating the body, but the whole person.”

Dato’ Lau addressing the audience with conviction, articulating Sunway Healthcare Group’s vision for excellence, trust and patient-centred care.

He believes clinicians must be supported by a strong ecosystem — one grounded in the adoption of latest medical diagnostic and treatment systems, clear clinical protocols, robust governance and a culture of integrity and accountability. His collaborative approach and foresight has enabled the Group to lead the way for medical innovation, automation and robotics.

“When you are responsible for patients’ safety and significant investments, trust and integrity become non-negotiable,” he says.

“Excellence in healthcare starts with getting these fundamentals right.”

A symbolic moment of unity as Dato’ Lau and the Sunway Healthcare Group leadership team mark a key milestone together.
Dato’ Lau and its joint principal advisers, coordinators and underwriters at the signing of the underwriting agreement for the IPO of Sunway Healthcare Holdings Berhad, marking a key milestone ahead of its listing on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad.

Dato’ Lau is also deeply committed to mentoring leaders, recognising that the future of healthcare depends on capable, values-driven professionals and leaders.

“Healthcare must always be guided by purpose because every decision ultimately affects a life.”

(From left) AmBank group CEO Jamie Ling, Sunway Healthcare Holdings Bhd president Dato’ Lau Beng Long, Sunway group founder and chairman Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, Maybank group president and group CEO Datuk Seri Khairussaleh Ramli; and UBS MD and head of global banking SEA, Nicolo Magni.

“My personal value is to be passionate in whatever you pursue, and to have a sense of purpose beyond yourself,” he says. “Healthcare requires that level of commitment.”

Four decades on, Dato’ Lau views his journey not in terms of personal achievement, but contribution.

“I feel very blessed to have been able to serve through healthcare,” he reflects. “To build something meaningful, and to make a difference for patients, doctor and staff — that has always been my dream.”

EZ 75 - Captains & Legends

Chaptering My Life

by Dato’ Dr Ooi Kee Beng

Dato’ Dr Ooi Kee Beng

Executive Director of Penang Institute
Founding Editor of Penang Monthly
Festival Director for George Town Literary Festival

“When is the hardest time to be positive? When you are in a personal crisis, of course. But that is also the time when you can learn things that are the most life-changing for you. So, don’t waste your crises, crises don’t come every day.”

My self-image is that of a writer. That had always been the case. More precisely, I love to learn, and then digest facts into exciting big pictures that I can then put into words. I realised, however, that truths come in layers and in different shades, and you have to peel, peel and peel, and view, view, view, to experience successive epiphanies.

I began working life in Penang as a reporter, and then a sub-editor, a giver of newspaper headings. That was Chapter 1 of my adult life.

Chapter 2 was when I left Malaysia for Sweden, where I worked as a restaurant janitor, floor sweeper, bus-boy and dish washer for a couple of years before entering Stockholm University. My deepest interests were in language philosophy, history, Chinese culture in various forms, and modern geopolitics including Asian post-colonial studies. Big pictures subjects. Meanwhile, I supported myself working three-day weekends at Ericsson Electronics, and raising a daughter.

“Life is simply the period between Birth and Death; it is not the opposite of Death. Birth and Death are bookends, precise points in time. Meaning is found in the space between them”

With Prof Wang Gungwu at Singapore’s National Library

Chapter 3 involved raising a second family—a son and another daughter—and moving to Singapore to work at the think tank which we now know as ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute. I blossomed with this switch from academic lecturing to think tank work. I learned to think through writing. The more I wrote, the more I realised that A-Ha moments can be a frequent experience. Writing is the best way to weave together “the big picture”, about all things, really. That intense period made me an award-winning author. Doors opened even more, and in many directions. Biographies about leaders became my thing, alongside commentaries in regional newspapers. I helped to found the Penang Monthly in 2009, for which I have always written the editorial. That has been a fruitful column for me, along with my regular column in The Edge, “Picking on the Present”.

It is true that you make your own luck; but it takes a lot of hard work to get lucky. Singapore offered me much, and I was smart enough to make full use of it.

With Penang State EXCO Member Zairil Khor Johari, at E&O Hotel

In 2017, Chapter 4 began. I was now ready to return to Penang. By then, I must have written 20 books. There is so much left undone in Malaysia, so much to do, so much to be exasperated about. My return synced nicely with the Reformasi Movement. Undeniably, change is generational. What my generation couldn’t do, this new one was trying hard to do. And in that sense, they became my muse.

“The phenomenon of international trade has been costly to build,
and we should now make full use of it to help humanity accept its diversity and recognise the need for peoples and governments to be tolerant, mutualistic and humble.”

Collage of book covers by Ooi Kee Beng
At Guangzhou Forum with Prof Zheng Yongnian of Guangzhou Institute of the Greater Bay Area (GIG) and GIG researcher Ms He Yian

Running Penang Institute is the best job possible for a returning son of the island. I believe I have made some lasting impact—on Penang’s public discourse and its policymaking ecosystem, and on the young.

Chapter 5, The Epilogue, remains to be lived—and to be written about. I look forward to it.

EZ 75 - Captains & Legends

Traditional Roots, Modern Leadership

Chef Whan Srintip Ruangraigomen

Head Chef of as i am by chef ton

“Authenticity in Thai cuisine has no shortcuts. Respect begins with the ingredients”

Chef Whan Srintip Ruangraigomen’s culinary journey is a masterclass in discipline, evolution, and the pursuit of authentic flavor. Her foundation was built at Suan Dusit University, Thailand’s premier culinary school, where she balanced her degree with a role as a Teacher Assistant, a precursor to her future as a leader.

In 2017, Whan joined the kitchen of the renowned Bo.lan. For two and a half years, she immersed herself in the rigors of Thai fine dining. It was here she learned the “no shortcuts” philosophy, mastering the art of crafting traditional Thai ingredients entirely from scratch. Seeking to broaden her technical horizon, she moved to Gaa in 2019. Immersed in a multicultural environment (60% international staff), she refined her European techniques and emerged as a confident communicator.

“I left David Thompson’s kitchen not just as a cook, but as a student of gastronomy ready to find my own direction.”

Whan’s perspective on Thai cuisine reached new heights at Aksorn, under the mentorship of David Thompson. She regards Thompson as her greatest influence, credited with teaching her the scientific precision and “heart” behind Thai gastronomy. Under his guidance, she moved beyond recipes to master the troubleshooting of complex flavour profiles.

Driven by a desire for career growth, Whan’s path led her to Chef Ton. Connected through Chef Nhat of Sood Penang, Whan recognised an opportunity to master the PR and management skills that define world-class restaurateurs.

In April 2025, Chef Whan took a bold leap, moving from Bangkok to Malaysia to become the Head Chef of as i am by chef ton, which officially opened in February 2026. Transitioning to a new country has been her greatest challenge yet. While she admits she wasn’t “born a leader,” she is proving her mettle by navigating cultural nuances and managing a diverse team with grace. Her mission is clear: to bring uncompromising, authentic Thai soul to the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

“I wasn’t born a leader, but I am becoming one through the challenges in
as i am by chef ton“

EZ 74 - Cover Story

The Woman Who Walks with Destiny

Master Suyen Lim

Founder and Principal of Supreme Divinity Sdn Bhd and Supreme Fortunity Sdn Bhd

“The kingdom is yours and that you are the sovereign masters of your own destiny.”

Some leaders influence with knowledge; a rarer few inspire with presence. Master Suyen Lim belongs to the latter — a metaphysics master whose wisdom carries the clarity of intellect and the quiet warmth of deep compassion.

Before she became known across ASEAN for her mastery in Qi Men Dun Jia, Feng Shui, I Ching, and Bazi, Master Suyen Lim thrived in the corporate world, managing banking software quality and performance. Yet beneath her professional success lived an intuition too strong to ignore — a knowing that her true work was not in managing systems, but in guiding people.

Leaving the corporate path was not a dramatic leap, but an honest homecoming. She surrendered to her calling and spent more than two decades mastering the ancient sciences she now translates into modern, practical guidance. Her signature gift is unmistakable: she doesn’t merely interpret charts; she sees people — their fears, their potential, and the path they cannot yet see for themselves, leading them toward clarity and success.

As Founder and Principal of Supreme Divinity Sdn Bhd and Supreme Fortunity Sdn Bhd, and the author of the highly regarded 2021–2026 Divination Guide, Master Suyen Lim has built a respected reputation across ASEAN. She turns complex metaphysical systems into grounded wisdom that empowers decision-making and inspires purposeful, aligned living.

In the business world, the difference between success and stagnation often lies in timing, strategy, and alignment — the core pillars of Qi Men Dun Jia. As companies contend with shifting markets, global uncertainties, financial blocks, and intense competition, Master Suyen Lim’s insights become a vital compass. She helps organisations understand energetic trends, align their teams, identify favourable timing, and position themselves strategically rather than resist natural cycles.

For individuals, her guidance is equally transformative — whether navigating a career transition, improving relationships, stabilising finances, or seeking personal growth. She maps out energetic blueprints that reveal strengths, challenges, and the most supportive directions forward.

Beyond private consultations, she has taught thousands through her classes, seminars, and large-scale strategy conferences. During the pandemic, she brought her teachings online and launched charity-based learning programmes — including the 99 Days Qi Men Energy Recharge Programme — helping more than 3,000 families regain balance, resilience, and financial grounding during uncertain times.

In her sessions, people often rediscover not only clarity, but courage. She reminds them that the universe is not working against them — it is simply waiting for them to realign. This ability to restore belief, calm, and inner steadiness has become her quiet, enduring hallmark.

For many, she is not only a guide but an anchor. She has also been appointed by several listed companies as a dedicated Qi Men business strategist. One notable success story involved helping a near-bankrupt company turn around its cash flow — ultimately safeguarding the livelihoods of 600 families.

Today, her work spans boardrooms, communities, and global stages. She has been invited to speak at numerous corporate events, including programmes by Allianz Insurance Malaysia, EcoWorld, IOI Properties, NEC, and the ASEAN Investment & Trade Forum. Her insights continue to be featured across major media platforms, and she appears regularly on 8TV Living Delight, China Press Online, iLifePost, Oriental Daily, and more.

Her accolades — among them the Top 100 Most Influential Young Entrepreneurs, the AITF Award 2023, and a royal recognition from the Negeri Sembilan Royal Family — are achievements she carries with gentle humility and a quiet understanding that her purpose is bigger than any title.

At its heart, Master Suyen Lim’s work is about helping people understand themselves more deeply and move through life with intention. Her approach is gentle, practical, and grounded in real-world results. Her guidance is precise, empowering, and genuinely transformative.

Together with her dedicated team, her motto says it best: “Your Success, Our Pride.” And for the thousands who have walked from uncertainty into clarity and achieved success with her guidance, that promise continues to ring true.

What is Chinese Metaphysics?

A quick conversation with Master Suyen Lim

Q1: How would you explain metaphysics in simple terms?
It’s the study of unseen forces—like energy, patterns, and timing—that shape daily life. Think of it as a navigation system guiding you toward clearer, wiser choices.

Q2: Common misconceptions?
It is not superstition or fortune-telling. Metaphysics is structured and based on centuries of observation. It is a practical tool for clarity and smarter decision-making, not dependency.

Q3: How should beginners start?
Begin with intention: seek understanding. Learn simple foundations—Chi flow, Yin–Yang, Five Elements—and apply them in daily life. Stay open, curious, and responsible for your own growth. Metaphysics is about observing and applying, not blind belief. Take the first step—explore more on our Facebook page. facebook.com/suyenlimqimen

Q4: What is the ultimate purpose of learning metaphysics?
Self-mastery. Metaphysics helps you understand yourself, align with the right timing and how to navigate challenges wisely. It does not predict the future—it helps you shape it. Your destiny isn’t fixed; your clarity, choices, and courage shape everything. And when you want deeper insight, our team is here to illuminate the path.

Explore More:

EZ 74 - Captains & Legends

A Journey of Trust, Purpose and Community

Professor Dr. Tan Yen Wooi, PJK

President of the Association of Certified Accountants, Malaysia

“Strong governance is not a cost to business—it is the foundation that protects every success the business will ever achieve.”

“Tax planning is not about paying less; it is about paying right—so that businesses grow with confidence, clarity, and compliance.”

In today’s fast-moving business world, trust is rare — and invaluable. For Professor Dr. Tan Yen Wooi — auditor, tax agent, company secretary, and business consultant — trust is more than part of his work. It is the foundation of a career built on integrity, clarity, and a resolute commitment to doing things right.

With over two decades of experience, Professor Dr. Tan has earned a reputation as a steady and reliable guide through the often complex worlds of compliance, governance, and financial accountability. His clients — from SMEs to family-owned enterprises and high-growth companies — see him as more than an advisor. He is a partner who anticipates risks, simplifies complexity, and brings clarity to even the most turbulent situations. Today, he leads his own practice, offering integrated audit, tax, corporate secretarial, and advisory services, all delivered with professionalism, discipline, and forward-looking vision.

Professor Dr. Tan’s life is a careful balance between personal fulfillment and professional excellence. Travel inspires him, while exploring historic sites and local traditions sharpens his perspective and informs his professional judgment. Friends know him as a true foodie, from sampling Penang’s heritage hawker stalls to discovering hidden culinary gems worldwide. Many of his most meaningful conversations, he laughs, begin over a shared meal. Books on leadership and strategy offer another source of reflection, but it is time with family that keeps him grounded. These quiet moments are a reminder of what truly matters.

Education and mentorship are central to his philosophy. As current President of the Association of Certified Accountants, Malaysia, and an approved tax agent and auditor, Professor Dr. Tan encourages young professionals to cultivate discipline, resilience, and a love of learning. “When your values and your career move together, success becomes far more meaningful,” he often says.

His dedication to community and culture is equally impressive. He actively contributes to 14 organisations, including the Penang Chinese Town Hall, Malaysia Corruption Watch, Penang Masters Athletic Association, and numerous educational and charitable bodies. Through these roles, he champions education, youth development, and cultural preservation, viewing his efforts as vital investments in the next generation.

Professor Dr. Tan’s professional accomplishments are widely recognised. He holds a PhD and is an Adjunct Professor, and has received honorary fellowships and an Honorary Doctorate in DBA. He is a fellow or member of over a dozen professional associations in accounting, taxation, corporate governance, and financial planning. In 2022, he was awarded the prestigious Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK) medal by the Penang State Governor for his community contributions, alongside numerous international accolades including the Regal British Award, awarded by World Humanitarian Drive and the World Distinguished Digital Entrepreneur Lifetime Achievement Award and the International CSR Icon Leadership Award, awarded by KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific & World Digital Chamber.

“In every challenge, a business sees risk; a consultant sees potential. The future belongs to those who turn insights into action.”

While awards mark milestones, Professor Dr. Tan regards the trust of clients, the growth of young professionals, and the strengthening of communities as the true rewards of a life well led.

Professor Dr. Tan Yen Wooi’s journey is shaped not by headlines, but by purpose — and by a lifelong belief that integrity, service, and community always matter.

EZ 74 - Captains & Legends

The New Language of Visual Glamour

Bryan Lim

The Art-Tech Alchemist, Co-Founder of Rawmind,
Chief Creative Officer of Monokoily and Veteran Creative Educator

“AI provides the speed of execution, but the clarity of vision is defined by the human mind.”

“When Hollywood heavyweight James Cameron declared that generative AI and CGI represent the “next wave” of filmmaking, and the Russo Brothers began embracing artificial intelligence to amplify human vision, the creative world took notice.“

In Malaysia, that wave has found one of its most compelling champions in Bryan Lim — a veteran visual storyteller redefining what is possible.

With more than 25 years in the creative industry and currently the Chief Creative Officer of Web3 project Monokoily, Bryan is at the nexus of technology, art and imagination. Years spent working within traditional production pipelines — weighed down by long timelines, cross-department bottlenecks and rising costs — convinced him that the future demanded a smarter, faster and more elegant approach. That belief gave rise to Rawmind, a creative studio named after its slogan, “Prompt Your Imagination”, built on the idea that technology should elevate creative instinct, not overshadow it and the belief that one must never lose that “Raw” original creative intent.

“AI is a super tool, but idea is king,” Bryan shares. “The magic always begins with raw imagination. We’re not feeding commands into a machine — we’re directing possibility.” That philosophy took spectacular form in “Jibao Polar Dream”, a large-scale immersive installation for China’s Shandong Museum. By employing an AI-powered “reverse engineering” workflow, Bryan’s team produced ultra-precise 8K visual content without the traditionally long production cycles. The result was a world-class visual experience delivered in record time — proving that the future of high-end storytelling need not be slow, cumbersome or excessively costly.

Co-founded with Shelin Tan, Rawmind was created to dismantle the long-held myth that premium visuals must come with premium budgets. Today, the studio delivers an impressive spectrum of services — from immersive visual engineering for large-scale venues and ultra-HD dome projections, to IP incubation, world-building, and full “script-to-screen” content production. Its agile “Super Individual + Remote Collaboration” model allows a small, highly specialised team to produce work with the scale and polish of global studios.

Bryan’s journey carries an equally distinguished legacy. He has contributed to the art direction and production of more than six animated feature films for the Chinese market, several surpassing box-office milestones of over 30 million. As the former Deputy Head of the Illustration Department at The One Academy, he spent 15 years shaping the creative futures of more than 500 students— many of whom have since gone on to join leading studios around the world.


His commercial portfolio spans fashion and lifestyle publications including Her World and Female, alongside brand collaborations with names such as Shell, LAC, and Jotun. In the digital frontier, his role at Monokoily continues to push visual narratives into the Web3 era, bridging art, technology and blockchain culture.

Aside accolades and milestones, Bryan’s true ambition lies in reshaping how creativity itself is valued. He envisions a new generation of “Super Individuals” — creators empowered by AI to command full-stack production without being confined to narrow roles.

You don’t need a Hollywood budget to achieve Hollywood results he says with quiet confidence. As Rawmind prepares to collaborate with visionary brands across film, animation and the metaverse, he remains determined to prove that world-class legacies can be built right here, with the right blend of imagination and intelligence.

“I no longer draw lines; I guide the story,” Bryan says. “AI may quicken the pace, but vision is—and will always be—human.”

EZ 74 - Captains & Legends

Beyond the Auction Block

Sim Polenn

Director of Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers (HBAA)

“Art is Life, Life is Art.”

For Sim Polenn, art has always been more than colours on a canvas. It is passion, discipline, and a calling that has shaped his journey. “It is passion towards art that drives me forward,” he once said — and that passion has carried him from an admirer of paintings to the Director of Henry Butcher Art Auctioneers (HBAA), Malaysia’s pioneering auction house. Since taking the helm in 2016, Sim has transformed the company into a trusted institution, known for its transparency and professionalism. To date, HBAA has sold more than 4,000 works — 90 percent of them by Malaysian artists — recording around RM100 million in sales.

Awang Damit Ahmad (2nd from left) solo exhibition at Art Seasons Singapore in November 2024, officiated by H.E. Dato’ Indera Dr. Azfar bin Mohamad Mustafar, High Commissioner of Malaysia in Singapore. It marks Awang’s long-awaited return to Singapore after 30 years (his first solo exhibition in Singapore was in 1994).

“Passion drives everything I do—it is the thread that connects vision to achievement.”

The milestone year was 2021, when Sim multiplied the company’s auction sales nearly fivefold, setting a record peak and proving that Malaysian art could command serious attention. But what defines him is not just the numbers. Sim has always believed that local art deserves a global audience, and he has worked tirelessly to open those doors. In 2023, he forged collaborations with international powerhouses Sotheby’s and Larasati, achieving new world record prices for works by the late Singaporean masters Liu Kang, Georgette Chen, and Cheong Soo Pieng. These milestones placed Malaysia firmly in the global spotlight and underscored his vision of connecting regional talent with international collectors.

As a speaker at Art & Jewellery (Le Lumiere TRX) collaboration

At home, Sim has been equally committed to nurturing local talent and preserving legacies. He has curated exhibitions for celebrated Malaysian artists such as Awang Damit Ahmad, Yusof Ghani, Dr. Jolly Koh, and Rafiee Ghani, and has been entrusted with curating and showcasing the collections of prominent figures including Tan Sri Azman Hashim. For him, every piece of art carries a story — and part of his role is to honour those stories and share them with wider audiences.

Equally close to his heart is the belief that art should give back. His conviction that creativity can serve the community has touched countless lives and turned auctions into meaningful platforms for change. Over the years, Sim has organised numerous charity auctions and fundraising projects, from cancer and autism awareness to flood relief and food aid during the pandemic. He is also a sought-after speaker for various art talks across the education, gallery, and corporate sectors.

Sim’s accolades include The Brand Laureate ArtPreneur of the Year Award in 2023 and a Certificate of Recognition from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture in 2024. Yet, he remains humble and grounded, seeing his role not as one of personal glory, but as part of a larger mission — to build bridges, tell stories, and shape the future of Malaysia’s art market.

Conducting a Guided Tour to educate the crowd about Malaysian Art, at HBAA’s 8000 sqft exhibition space at Menara Ken.
EZ 73 - Cover Story

From Penang to the Pinnacle

Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai

Chairman of BERNAMA

From a young boy penning letters to newspapers in Penang to being named Malaysia’s National Journalism Laureate, Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai has lived a life shaped by curiosity, conviction and a love for storytelling.

In an exclusive interview with President Bill Clinton in New York.

The first Penangite to receive the nation’s highest media honour — an accolade shared by only 14 journalists since 1988 — Datuk Seri Wong regards the recognition “a matter of great pride and honour,” yet humbly credits his lifelong passion as the driving force behind his journey and achievement.  

“Passion — that’s the word,” he reflects.

“One must enjoy what one is doing, and once that happens, everything falls into place.”

At the Antarctica with adventurer extraordinaire Yusuf Hashim in 2024.

Born, raised and schooled in Penang, Wong is a true blue ‘Anak Pulau Pinang’ (son of Penang). His formative years at St. Xavier’s Institution sparked a fascination for history and news. “Not many Penangites are aware that the country’s first English newspaper, the Prince of Wales Island Gazette, was published in Penang in 1805,” he notes. “There were also many Malay newspapers and magazines which started in Penang too. Kwong Wah Jit Poh, established in 1910, remains the world’s longest continuously printed Chinese daily. And of course, The Star itself began in Penang in 1971.”

Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai with his wife, Datin Seri Florence Teh, at Istana Alam Shah with His Royal Highness The Sultan of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri and His Highness the Raja Muda.

Even as a student, Wong contributed articles to his school paper and mainstream newspapers in English and Bahasa Malaysia, finding joy in seeing his work in print. By 1984, he joined The Star as a cadet reporter, beginning a four-decade career that would see him rise to become its youngest Group Chief Editor, later Executive Director, Group Managing Director and CEO, before taking the helm at BERNAMA in 2023.

Along the way, he interviewed world leaders and icons — Nelson Mandela, Bill Clinton, Lee Kuan Yew, Stephen Hawking, Richard Branson, David Beckham, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jackie Chan, Jimmy Choo and Alicia Keys among them, adding world exclusives to his list of career highlights; yet his heart often returns to Penang, the place that shaped him.


His 2014 book Penang’s History, My Story — later translated into Bahasa Malaysia by Universiti Sains Malaysia — reflects this bond. “It is important that Penangites know their history,” he says.

“I wanted to record the fascinating facts behind our streets and landmarks before the names and memories fade away. History should be told as stories.”

But Penang’s story is not only about its past — it is also about its people. Wong proudly notes how the island has produced leaders, thinkers and trailblazers across fields. “Penang has always been a melting pot, exposed to international culture since the 18th century. That openness shaped our people to be independent-minded and innovative — qualities that continue to produce outstanding political leaders, entrepreneurs, musicians, sports personalities and, of course, journalists.”

Even food, he points out, carries history within its flavours. “Did you know Char Koay Teow was once served with crab meat topping in the 1960s and 70s? Or that Curry Mee used to come with slices of char siew?” he says with a nostalgic smile, adding that future guides to Penang should highlight hidden stories, places and forgotten flavours locals grew up with.

As Chairman of BERNAMA, Wong now leads Malaysia’s national news agency with a clear mission: credibility. “Our clients are Malaysian and international news agencies. They turn to us for confirmation and verification. So, we have a huge responsibility to be the trusted source of information,” he affirms.

His deeper message, however, remains one of unity and moderation.

“I see Malaysians as one,” he stressed.

Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai receiving the National Journalism Laureate award from Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir (fourth, right) at the Malaysian Press Night (MWM) 2025 and the Malaysian Journalism Awards (HKM) MPI–Petronas 2024.
Celebrating with the Bernama team after being conferred the National Journalism Laureate at the Malaysian Press Night (MWM) 2025

“Moderation must be practised naturally — in our lives, our work, and the way we tell our nation’s stories. And I urge our next generation of journalists to stay curious, keep learning and practice moderation in all things.”

Receiving the INPenang International Outstanding Achievers Award 2023 (Malaysia) from Tun Dato’ Seri Utama Ahmad Fuzi bin Haji Abdul Razak, the former Governor of Penang, accompanied by Dato’ Chng Huck Theng, Founder & President of the INPenang International Awards

Away from the newsroom, Wong’s curiosity takes him far and wide — trekking in Rwanda to see gorillas, hiking Japan’s Suicide Forest, spending three weeks in Antarctica and making it to the Mount Everest Base Camp in Tibet. “I like going to places not many venture to,” he says with a grin, already planning his next trip to the Maldives to swim with nurse sharks.

After 40 years of chasing stories across continents, Datuk Seri Wong is still doing what he loves most — writing, telling stories and discovering the world. And through it all, Penang remains the place where it all began — and where his heart will always return.

Anak Pulau Pinang, indeed.

EZ 73 - Captains & Legends

Rewriting Asia’s Health Story

Dr. Mark Leong

Author, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Farmz Asia Group

“If it cannot be measured, it is not medicine. You can’t fix what you can’t see – that’s why precise diagnostics are the non-negotiable foundation of true health transformation.”

Dr. Mark Leong taking a lively wefie with the Farmz Revival community after an energising exercise session at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. A moment of unity, wellness, and smiles all around!

“We’re not just another healthcare company — we’re building a future where preventive health, powered by food and science, belongs to everyone.”

Forget fleeting wellness trends. Dr. Mark Leong is on a mission to transform health across Asia by replacing guesswork with precision, science, and measurable results. Recognised by Forbes as one of Asia’s Top 100 Global Healthcare Leaders, this award-winning entrepreneur made a radical shift after losing loved ones to preventable chronic illnesses. He realised that the answers to better health weren’t just in the pharmacy, they were in accurate measurement, targeted nutrition, and prevention at the cellular level.

His answer was Farmz Asia, the first company in the world to integrate real-time diagnostics of nutritional deficiencies with personalised,  tech-driven nutrition solutions. This innovation uses blood, urine, and stool analysis combined with AI-powered interpretation and evidence-based protocols, giving clients a precise, scientific roadmap to achieve their health goals whether that’s reversing chronic disease, losing weight, or optimising performance.

Dr. Mark Leong connecting with readers during the autograph session of his latest book 7kg in 7 Days, inspiring the community towards healthier living.

“It was never about selling supplements or quick fixes,” Dr. Leong says. “We wanted to build a food-as-medicine ecosystem that starts with real measurement, because if it can’t be measured, it’s not medicine.”

From Vision to Global Movement

Farmz Asia didn’t start with big investors or celebrity endorsements, it started with a bold vision to make lab-grade diagnostics and personalised nutrition accessible to the public. Dr. Leong built a multi-brand ecosystem to deliver holistic solutions:

  • Dr. Mark Leong – Weight loss, detox, and cellular renewal programmes
  • Farmz Academy – Training certified wellness coaches
  • Brot and Tee – Functional breads and teas for gut and metabolic health
  • Blooma Skin – Clean actives for mature skin

Backed by a team of doctors, scientists, dietitians, nutritionists, and TCM practitioners, the group now operates in Singapore, Malaysia, and Hong Kong, impacting thousands and building a community of over 10,000 members.

Awards, Records & Recognition

  • Singapore Quality Class for Service – Enterprise Singapore (2020–2023)
  • Best in Food Safety Solutions – Prestige Awards (2022 & 2023)
  • Top 100 Global Healthcare Leaders – IFAH
  • Singapore Book of Records (2025) – Biggest Weight Loss in 7 Days
  • Featured in Forbes, Men’s Journal, USA Today, New York Times
  • Honoured in Augustman AMoT24 list for national wellness impact

Impact Over Legacy

For Dr. Leong, the real measure of success is not in titles or press coverage, but in the number of lives transformed. Guided by his belief that “The true mark of greatness isn’t what we leave behind, it’s how many lives we lift while we’re still here”, Farmz Asia launched the Food for Family initiative, aiming to provide clean nutrition, infrastructure, and career opportunities to one million underprivileged children by 2027.

The Future of Precision Wellness

The journey is far from over. Farmz Asia is preparing to expand across Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Hong Kong. Alongside its franchise model, the company is piloting mobile health hubs in transit areas like MRT stations and airports, and developing a 48-hour personalised supplement delivery service based on live diagnostic data.

“We are not just another healthcare company,” Dr. Leong asserts. “We are building a future where preventive health belongs to everyone.” 

“The true mark of greatness isn’t what we leave behind —it’s how many lives we lift while we’re still here.”

Dr. Mark Leong with Dato’ Chng Huck Theng, Executive Director of Ghee Hiang, sharing insights on the wellness benefits of sesame oil during the factory visit.

EZ 73 - Captains & Legends

The Capital Revolution Powering Malaysia’s Innovation Future

Malaysian Business Angel Network (MBAN)

Peter Wee – President of MBAN
Elain Lockman – Vice President of MBAN
Dato’ Patrick Liew – Chairman of Sarawak Business Angel Network (SBAN)
Alan Lim – Immediate Past President of MBAN (Current Council Member)

Closing Plenary: Vision for Malaysia’s Startup Ecosystem
The MBAN Summit 2024 concluded with a thought-provoking closing plenary featuring Elain Lockman, Ng Sai Kit, Dr. Daniele Gambero, Peter Wee, Vincent Xu, Alan Ong, and Karen Puah. The panel explored Budget 2025 expectations, the evolving KL20 landscape, and strategic opportunities for investors in the next 12 to 24 months—offering bold insights into the future of Malaysia’s startup ecosystem.

Malaysia is undergoing a bold transformation in its financial and innovation landscape—led by the Malaysian Business Angel Network (MBAN), the official trade association for angel investors and angel clubs in Malaysia. At the heart of this shift is the MBAN Summit 2025, (scheduled for 24 September in Kuala Lumpur), a flagship event that brings together three powerful forces: family dynasties, corporate giants, and disruptive startups. These once-separate entities are now converging to build a future-driven economy.

As MBAN President Peter Wee notes, “This new economy is not just about capital—it is about courage.” With total startup funding in Malaysia reaching RM4.1 billion in 2024—double that of 2022—the shift is real and rapid. Notably, 42% of early-stage deals now involve non-traditional investors, including family offices and corporations. This is the dawn of a new investment era.

Front Row Faces of Malaysia’s Innovation Ecosystem
Smiles and applause from the front row at MBAN Summit 2024, featuring key figures in Malaysia’s startup and innovation space: Elain Lockman (VP, MBAN), Ts. Ng Kwang Ming (CEO, Digital Penang), Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke (CEO, Cradle), Peter Wee (President, MBAN), and Hazwan Razak (Head of Innovation & Entrepreneurship, SDEC). A moment of shared optimism for the future of angel investing and entrepreneurship.

The MBAN Summit is where this revolution takes form. It is a dynamic platform for collaboration, insight, and deal-making—supported by key partners like Cradle and PayNet. With last year’s attendance surpassing 660 delegates, the summit remains Malaysia’s most influential gathering for investors and innovators. This year promises even deeper engagement, featuring topics such as how family offices are quietly building unicorns, how legacy corporations are adopting startup mindsets, and how corporate acquisitions are outpacing internal R&D in driving innovation.

The summit is just the beginning; MBAN is building a nationwide network of visionary investors and founders. New chapters in Penang and Sarawak are strengthening regional links and fostering cross-border opportunities. As Dato’ Patrick, President of the Sarawak Business Angel Network (SBAN), explains, “MBAN is instrumental in giving us curated access to high-potential founders and investment opportunities. Strengthening these channels—both within Malaysia and across the region—is critical to accelerating cross-border investment and unlocking broader opportunities for angel networks like SBAN.”

Panel Session: Can Angels Make 20X Return on their Investment?
Moderated by Kamarul Bahrin Haron, former Editor-in-Chief of Astro Awani, this dynamic session featured Alan Lim, Dr. Sivapalan Vivekerajah, and Rina Neoh as they shared hard-earned insights on achieving outsized returns. From spotting unicorns early to navigating exit strategies, the panellists offered a candid look into what it takes to make 20x returns in angel investing.

With over RM100 million invested by the MBAN community to date, this is a network defined by action and impact. Members are backing startups, mentoring, strategising, and helping shape Malaysia’s innovation agenda.

MBAN Immediate Past President Alan Lim and an active angel investor who has invested in over 50 startups, sums it up: “Legacy is not about what you have—it is about what you build.” The MBAN Summit 2025 offers a chance to do just that. 

MBAN Summit 2024: A Gathering of Visionaries
A powerful moment captured at the MBAN Summit 2024, as VIPs, speakers, and attendees filled the auditorium for a group photo. Taken from the stage, this snapshot reflects the vibrant energy and collective spirit of Malaysia’s thriving angel investing and startup ecosystem.

For details, visit mban.com.my/mbansummit2025