Tag Archives: FEATURED

Trailblazing a way for tradition 开创传统新局面

November 9, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Dato’ Ar Ooi Sian Hian
Ghee Hiang Executive Chairman
义香董事主席

“We are a traditional biscuit maker, that’s our core strength that we will continue to build on.”

Ghee Hiang is a household name for many in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, particularly for its fragrant sesame oil but this 161-year-old company does not only produce sesame oil but had in fact, started out as a traditional pastry maker. This is the company that first introduced the traditional tau sar pneah and till today, continue to lead the way in manufacturing fresh quality handmade pastries.

Heading Ghee Hiang is its Executive Chairman Dato’ Ar Ooi Sian Hian who said it is time for the traditional pastry company to renew and capture the interests of the younger generation through a different strategy and

invigorating marketing style. The trained architect decided to bring changes to the company, the first of which is to introduce new and beautiful packaging for the products. “We are a traditional biscuit maker, that’s our other core strength that we will continue to build on and we have to continue to project our living heritage image through our packaging so that our customers can distinguish and continue coming back to us,” he said.

Another way is to concept-theme its various newer boutique outlets and more importantly restore Ghee Hiang’s original shop at 95 Beach Street to turn back time and return the building to its former traditional look. “We want to bring back the aura and feel of the olden days so that when people come to Ghee Hiang, it is not about buying pastries but about immersing in our local culture, our history and tradition that was entrenched for over 160 years,” he said.

“Ghee Hiang is going through a transformation to bring our handmade traditional pastries outside of Malaysia.”

There are plans to introduce Ghee Hiang pastries to the international market. “Ghee Hiang is going through a mapped series of transformations to bring our handmade traditional pastries outside of Malaysia,” Dato’ Ooi said. Other than its sesame oil and pastries, Ghee Hiang Group, under Dato’ Ooi’s leadership, has branched out into property development in Ghee Hiang Gardens, Green Lane Penang and most recently, ventured into its first ever lifestyle eatery -Teels Heritage Cafe. The cafe not only serves unique British Malaya inspired meals but introduces hot-from-the-oven Ghee Hiang pastries for a different experience.

Ghee Hiang first made its name all those years ago when people would queue outside its shop along Beach Street to be the first to grab some of its hot-from-the-oven pastries. Now, the pastries sold, though freshly baked daily, have been cooled before individually packed and sealed to maintain freshness in compliance to Food Safety Management standards. The novelty of the hot-from-the-oven pastries were lost and Teels is there to bring it back. “We want people to distinctively experience savouring our pastries fresh, fragrant and hot from the oven again,” he said.

Ghee Hiang has been around since 1856 and under Dato’ Ooi’s capable leadership, the group’s direction is heading towards many more decades of carving a name for itself in the food and beverage industry as a manufacturer and also an industry leader.

It is not only all business and profit for Dato’ Ooi. It is also about giving back to society and that is why Ghee Hiang signed a memorandum of agreement with KDU Penang College University in a scholarship collaboration to help students particularly in the field of Culinary Arts & Hospitality. It is a RM150,000 three-year collaboration in which Dato’ Ooi in addition had personally contributed RM60,000. “Education is very important and we believe it is our moral obligation and duty to give back to society through this collaboration with KDU,” he said.

“作为传统的糕饼制造商，这是我们的另一项核心力量，必须持续建设。”

义香-是马来西亚甚至东南亚家喻户晓的名号，尤其是金字招牌的义香麻油。但这家已有161年悠久历史的老字号公司不仅生产麻油，实际上同时还有着闻名的手工制作传统酥饼。而距离他们首次引进传统的豆沙饼至今，仗着新鲜优质的手工酥饼，口碑销量一直在市场上遥遥领先。

领航义香的董事主席拿督Ar黄先贤认为，现在是传统糕饼行业更新思维的时刻，尤其是通过新鲜策略和活力营销方式来吸引年轻一代的兴趣。而这位专业建筑师也决定给公司带来改变，首先是为产品引入全新亮眼的包装。“作为传统的糕饼制造商，这是我们的另一项核心力量，必须持续建设，并且透过代表性的包装来展示我们作为活古迹的形态，这样客户就能区分开来，也是保持他们对这品牌的忠诚度。”

“另一种方式是将我们的精品门店翻新为主题概念化，恢复义香当年在土库街 95 号的原始店铺风情，我们想让时光倒流，重现传统朴实的面貌。尤其是尽量修复酝酿过去的氛围和感觉，所以当人们来到义香时，不仅是买酥饼点心，而是沉浸在传统文化思绪，这是超越 160 年的历史时光隧道。”

至于有关将义酥饼糕点引入国际市场的计划。“义香正在历经一系列的改造进程，把我们手工制作的传统酥饼带到马来西亚以外的地方。”除了麻油和酥饼外，在拿督黄先贤的领导下也涉足房地产开发领域，包括义香集团属下的義香花园、槟城青草巷和最近名为 Teels Heritage Café 咖啡馆餐厅。这个首家品质生活方式的咖啡馆不仅提供独特的英国马来式混搭美食菜单，而且还重点介绍现场烘焙的义香招牌酥饼。

“义香正在历经一系列的改造进程，把我们手工制作的传统酥饼带到马来西亚以外的地方。”

义香打响名号是源于许多年前，当人们在土库街的店铺外大排长龙，只为了购买新鲜出炉的热腾腾酥饼。直至现在，这些酥饼点心虽然依旧新鲜出炉，但为了遵守食品安全管理的保鲜度标准，在历经独立包装和密封之前已经冷却。而从烤箱里拿出来的酥饼丢失了热度，但 Teels Heritage Café 则将唤回原有的温度记忆。“我们希望大家能有独特的体验，可以再次品尝刚从烤箱中直接出炉，香气扑鼻而温热的酥饼点心。”

义香自 1856 年起就伴随着大家，而在黄先贤英明领导下，该集团正朝着数十载的长远方向发展，作为饮食行业的领头羊，也为制造商和业内领导者树立榜样。

至于黄先贤不只是关注商业和盈利，他也不忘社会公益，其中义香与槟城伯乐学院大学（KDU）签署了一份奖学金协作的备忘录，以帮助学生们在烹饪艺术和餐饮酒店服务的课程学习。在这项 3 年投入 15 万令吉的计划之外，他个人附加奉献了 6 万令吉。“教育非常重要，这也是我们的道德义务和责任，相信通过与伯乐学院的合作将极大化的回馈社会。”

EZ 48 - Cover Story, EZ 61 (2)

Rise to the Challenge 奋起应战

November 9, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Calvin Goon

Head, Affluent Segment of RHB Banking Group

“The Malaysian banks are pursuing SMEs as part of an expanded mandate to help grow its affluent base,” said Mr. Calvin Goon, Head of Affluent Division of RHB Banking Group.

Rising above economic challenges, growing the affluent target segment Mr. Calvin Goon, Head of Affluent Division of RHB Banking Group explains how to move the market forward during challenging times.

It is no secret that industry observers of Malaysia’s wealth management landscape believe that the next decade will be increasingly challenging for the high net worth (HNW) individuals who are constantly seeking higher yields while grappling with an uncertain economic outlook. Factors such as the growing complexity in China’s credit space, Brexit and the Euro uncertainty are cause for major concerns as with the issue of central banks shifting gear from accommodative to tightening which pose serious challenges to banks in moving the affluent market forward.

High net worth individuals from Malaysia and around the world are concerned with three main issues, namely inheritance, global economy and tax. In turn, banks are looking to introduce new propositions, products and solutions to address clients’ concerns. Looking to small- and medium-sized enterprise space (SMEs), there are many untapped opportunities for the banks to work on.

“These clients are more sophisticated and will demand customised products and solutions. They prefer more attentive services due to the nature of their business.”

“The Malaysian banks are pursuing SMEs as part of an expanded mandate to help grow its affluent base,” Mr. Calvin Goon, Head of Affluent Division of RHB Banking Group says. “The potential synergy will be beneficial during this challenging period.”

Taking into consideration this group of SMEs as well as the HNW investors, a more specialised and personalised approach is required. In line with this, RHB Bank created the Private Clients and Business Services segment to hold their assets that are in excess of USD1 million and above.

“These clients are more sophisticated and will demand customised products and solutions,” explains Mr. Calvin Goon. “They prefer more attentive services due to the nature of their business.”

Growing the affluent market means working harder for the clients with customised solutions. The engagement between the bank and these clients is vital, as it boils down to the overall client experience and the impression built from these efforts. It inevitably means not losing any of their capital while seeking returns.

With the inflation surge becoming a global phenomenon, Malaysians also find their incomes eroding from the depreciation of the Ringgit over the past few years. The solution to this could very well be linked to foreign currencies. By providing the benefits of diversification and lessening of risks, these measures could verily mitigate the rising economic challenges.

跨建这个高端市场意味着需要更加努力与更全面为顾客提供专属的金融服务。

在经济挑战中崛起，跨展高端富裕客户为目标市场。阮晨祐,兴业银行集团（RHB Banking Group）高端市场部门资深副总裁解释如何在充满挑战性的市场中前进

马来西亚财富管理观察员相信在接下来十年，高净值人士持续在不确定市场前景中寻找更高的利益时会面对更多挑战。市场因素如中国信贷尺度越加繁杂，英国脱欧和欧洲的不稳定导致国家银行实施紧缩政策。如此一来，这使得银行业者为推动高端市场添加更严峻的挑战。

来自马来西亚及世界各地的高净值人士关注三大方面，即遗产税，全球经济及税务。因此，银行业在不断地寻找新的方案及产品来协助顾客，尤其是针对中小型企业市场，银行有很多可发展的机会。

大马的银行业正在积极寻求中小型企业家，来着重发展建其高端客户。阮晨祐说道“这样的合作在这充满挑战的时期会带来双赢的益处”。

针对中小型企业家及高净值的投资者，他们需要更专属及量身定做的方案。了解这样的需求，兴业银行特别创建了私人客户及商业服务给予拥有资产高达美金 100 万或以上的人士。

“这群客户会比较精细及会要求量身定做的产品及财富规划的方案”。阮晨祐解释道。“由于他们日理万机的关系，他们更喜欢细致的服务”。

跨建这个高端市场意味着需要更加努力与更全面为顾客提供专属的金融服务。这需要顾客及银行的紧密互动与了解，以提升顾客的整体体验。这也意味着银行在极力寻求回抽的同时也要确保客户风险偏好及没有任何损失。

由于通货膨胀成为全球性课题，再加上马币近几年来不断贬值，马来西亚人也发觉他们的收入锐减。外币成为主要解决此问题的方法。在提供多元化及加强风险控制，这些措施可以减轻不断上升的经济挑战，并协助客户达到其财富目标。

EZ 47 - Captains & Legends

The Mother & Daughter Sorority 母女联谊会

June 30, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Datin Peggy Khoo (Executive Director of ARITA PLASTICS)

Joyce Lim (Director of ARITA PLASTICS)

“You must have passion in everything you do. In some ways, we are strict with her [Joyce] because she may eventually lead the company one day. However, she is still new to the business and we treat her like we would treat any freshies in our company. I’m glad that she is willing and seems to be a fast learner as well.” commented Datin Peggy Khoo.

“My parents wanted me to improve and the only way to do that is the freedom that they have willingly let me try and learn through assisting them in decision-making processes in the marketing and the management side of the company. Their willingness have opened many doors for me.” said Joyce

Whenever we hear of family members working together in a family-run business, there is almost an immediate bliss that transcends peace as well as orderliness not many can achieve. In our day-to-day grind to live a life as best as we could, relationships have been a constant challenge to many especially with family members in a family-run business.

The first instance of meeting these two women struck a cord that transcends an air of class and superiority. While one may prevail in wisdom and experience from being in the business for almost two decades the other strengthens in youth and energy. The mother and daughter story of Datin Peggy Khoo and Joyce Lim speaks not only of combined efforts but truly embracing a relationship that works both in their homes and also for a family-run business.

When Joyce graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from Deakin University, Australia six years ago, there were already discussions revolving around her joining the family firm. Since then, she has led and represented the company in implementing the newest ISO system 9001 and 2015.

“I knew what I wanted when I first joined the company. In order to learn different functional parts within the company, I was allocated to different departments and started from the very beginning. The idea is that I would learn from every department especially in marketing involving purchasing, production planning, and quality management system (ISO),” said Joyce.

If there is one thing on how they define the success and longevity of the company, it is definitely through hard work as well as the passion for the industry. With over 30 years being in the manufacturing sector of the plastic industry, ARITA PLASTICS is one of the pioneers in producing extruded plastic sheets. The company has grown to become a major exporter and is an OEM partner and trader with more than 20 years of experience.

Datin Peggy Khoo started the manufacturing business in 1978 with her husband who also holds first-hand experience in running a company. This meant that Joyce is also on the receiving end of two successful entrepreneurs that has led a company for more than three decades.

“The advantages to being the daughter is enormous,” laughed Joyce. “Even at the initial stage of joining the firm, I felt that my voice was heard. I would probably not stand a chance to voice out my opinion if I’m not at a certain position in the company. They were open and that led me further to more opportunities; whether it is on socialising at networking events or taking the initiative to introduce me to their clients.”

The husband and wife company has expanded since 1978 and with over 70 staff on the payroll, it has been through its own challenges. They have no qualms in knowing that their children may leave the company one day and take each day as it comes.

“It is definitely a choice that they [the children] have made when they decided to join us. If they will ever leave one day, we are definitely open to exploring. We have staff and stake shareholders who have been with us for over 20 years, so, there are definitely a lot of talent to explore there,” said Datin Peggy Khoo.

These two ladies seem to have it in their strive; a two-way communication that is proven successful so far. On one hand, this relationship is an aspirations to the younger generation to go for the catch and be successful. On the other hand, we see the mother hand, nurturing at the same time plays a vital part in appropriate decision-making and well-devised processes for execution. Are there any betters ways for a mother and daughter relationship?

“你必须对自身所做的一切充满激情。我们对Joyce在某些方面显得严苛，因为总有一天将是她领导公司。然而，她还是业务新手，我们对待她像公司里任何新人一样。但我非常欣慰她很愿意学习以及快速上手。”拿汀邱碧意说。

每当我们听到家庭成员们在同一个家族企业里共事，几乎立即感受到一种超越和谐的幸福，这也是许多人无法达至的秩序感。在我们日复一日尽最大的努力去营造美好生活，对很多人来说人际关系是一个持续的挑战，特别是与家庭成员在家族企业中共处。

与这两名女性会面的第一印象是超越阶级和优越感的亲密联系。其中一位在商业领域拥有20年以上的智慧与丰富经验优势，另外一名则胜在年轻朝气和精力充沛。拿汀郑碧意(Peggy Khoo)与Joyce Lim，这对母亲与女儿的故事不仅叙述她们共同的努力，也实际拥抱她们的家还有家族企业。

6年前，当Joyce毕业于澳大利亚迪肯大学(Deakin University)获取商业学士学位，环绕着她加入家族企业的讨论正式开启。那时，她已经领导着与代表公司实施最新版质量管理体系ISO系统9001-2015。

“我刚加入公司就知道自己想要什么。而为了深入了解公司各部门构造，从一开始我被分配到不同的部门。我的想法是从每一个部门中学习，特别是市场营销，还有涉及采购，生产计划和质量管理体系(ISO)。”

如果要定义一家成功与长远的公司，肯定包括辛勤耕耘以及对行业的热情。而Arita集团拥有超过30年在塑料制造业的经验，也是生产高端挤压塑料板材的先驱，公司成为主要出口商，具备逾20年的代工生产(OEM)合作伙伴与贸易经历。

郑碧意是在1978年涉足制造业，并具备携手丈夫拿督林廷晖开始经营一家公司的切身经历。这意味着，Joyce是身为掌控一家逾30年历史的公司、两名成功企业家之接班人。

“作为女儿的好处数之不尽。”她笑道。不过，即使加入公司的初期，她感觉自己的声音有被聆听。“如果我不在公司的某个职位，我可能就没有机会发表意见了。他们为我提供很多机会的窗口，让我能更跨前一步；而且无论是在社交活动或一些场合，也主动把我介绍给客户们。”

自1978以来，这家夫妇创立的公司加速扩大，拥有逾70名员工，且历经自身挑战。他们不确定自己的孩子可能哪一天会离开公司，抑或这一天随时到来。

“如果孩子们加入我们，这是他们的选择，至于要离开，我们肯定会开放探索。而我们的员工和股东们在过去的20年与我们一起并肩作战，所以，具备很多勘察人才的机会。”郑碧意说。

这两名女性似乎都以本身能力奋斗着，也是至今为止确认相当成功的双向交流。另一方面，这种关系让年轻一代更勇于追求成功的志向。此外，我们可看到母亲在一手栽培的同时也采取适当决策，而精心策划的执行过程也起着关键作用。还有比这种母女关系更好的方式吗？

by Monica Tong

EZ 47 - Cover Story, EZ 61 (2)

A New Chapter & Passion for Learning 学习激情的新章

June 30, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Professor Stephen Doughty

President & CEO of Penang Medical College (PMC)

CoverStory3 — Professor Stephen Doughty, attended INPenang Awards 2017 to receive the INPenang Best Medical College/University Award

“I always had a desire for discovering new knowledge. My undergraduate degree included 2 years of research work and that led me to undertake my PhD in Oxford in computational chemistry and Computer-Aided Drug Design.”

When Professor Stephen Doughty moved to Malaysia with his wife and five boys all between the age of 1 and 10 about 12 years ago, it was the beginning of an exciting journey dedicated to the pursuit of helping establish a new learning institution and sharing of knowledge. Apart from taking up a new role as the Dean of Faculty of Science, then progressing up the ranks to being Vice-Provost (Teaching and Learning) at the University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus in Kuala Lumpur, it was also the start of a new life away from home – the UK, friends, and family. As with any move to a new country, this family of seven has set themselves up with a cross-border challenge – embracing the whole Malaysian experience from getting accustomed to the relentless tropical weather, learning its culture and language to tasting the variety of delectable cuisines Malaysia has to offer.

12 years later, Professor Doughty joined Penang Medical College (PMC) as its fourth president in September 2016. Stephen joined the School of Pharmacy at the University of Nottingham in 2001 having previously worked at the University of Bradford, UK. His research interests are focused on molecular modelling and computer-aided drug design with a particular interest in modelling proteins for rational drug design.

“I always had a desire for discovering new knowledge. My undergraduate degree included 2 years of research work (which isn’t normal!) and that led me to undertake my PhD in Oxford in computational chemistry and Computer-Aided Drug Design,” said Professor Doughty.

A strong believer in pushing back the boundaries of knowledge and undertaking new research to answer questions that have yet to be explored, Professor Doughty continues to actively research and publish new findings. “ this is what has kept me in academia and drives my desire to want to see PMC flourish as a university, where the whole community is engaged in the pursuit of acquiring and developing knowledge.”

“We want to establish ourselves as the place to come to for Penang’s human capital needs in supporting services like medical tourism.”

Professor Doughty has high expectations and sees great potential for PMC. Celebrating its 20th year as a medical institution in 2016, it is the beginning of a new chapter – not only is it affecting people who are connected to PMC but also its communities surrounding the institution. He believes that academic institutions must be contributing to society both globally in terms of expanding knowledge and also locally in terms of enhancing the lives of those communities in close proximity to PMC.

“I see it [PMC] growing in the next 10 years as we continue to develop new courses. We want to establish ourselves as the place to come to for Penang’s human capital needs in supporting services like medical tourism. The areas that we could move into are not only in providing doctors but also support and healthcare staff as well as area such as computer scientists for healthcare and research purposes.

Wholly owned by RCSI and UCD, PMC has been internationally recognised since 1996 and was rated by House Officer Performance in Malaysia 2009 – 2011, the Institute for Health Systems Research Malaysia, as among the top medical schools in preparing graduate doctors for their early careers. With plans to upgrade the college status to a university as the next step, it wishes to enhance students’ learning experience with plans to develop new courses as well as expand the physical infrastructure that now houses 500 students. Apart from keeping abreast with developments of lecturers and students, they are also placing importance in attracting the best quality staff and maintaining a good relationship with their partners.

“我们想建设自身作为槟城人力资本需求的定点，用于支持类似医疗旅游服务。”

约12年前，Stephen Doughty 教授与妻子、还有5名1岁到10岁的儿子们移居到马来西亚。这是激奋人心旅程开始，他致力于搭建新的学习机构和知识分享。除了扮演理科院院长的角色之外，还在马来西亚诺丁汉大学吉隆坡校区担任副校长（教学与学习）。另外，这也是他们远离家乡英国，朋友和家人，开展新生活。不过，与任何国家的新移民一样，这个七口之家已征服跨界挑战 – 体验马来西亚的整体生活，首先习惯热带天气，学习其文化和语言，品尝各种多元食物。

Doughty教授在12年间也持续前进，直至2016年9月他加入槟城医学院（PMC）担任第四任院长。另外，他于2001年加入诺丁汉大学药剂学院，此前曾在英国布拉德福德（Bradford）大学工作。他的研究兴趣集中在分子建模和电脑辅助药物设计，特别关注用于合理药物设计的蛋白质建模。

“我一直渴望发掘新的知识。本科学位包括两年的研究工作（这非正常状态！），导向我在牛津获取计算化学和电脑辅助药物设计博士学位。”

Doughty教授强烈支持推进知识界限，持续积极钻研和发表新的成果，不断进行研究以回答这个有待探索的问题。“这正是我留在学术界的理由，我希望看到槟城医学院进阶成为大学的驱动力，而整个社会都在追求获取和发展知识。”

他对于槟城医学院抱持很高的期望和预见它的巨大潜能。2016年，槟城医学院作为医疗机构庆祝成立迈向20周年，这是新一章的开端——不仅影响到与医学院相关的人，也带动该机构周围的社区。他认为，学术机构在扩大知识的同时，也必须在全球范围内对社会做出贡献，包括提升与医学院密切相关的社区生活水平。

“随着我们持续开发新的课程，未来10年槟城医学院将会不断增长。我们想建设自身作为槟城人力资本需求的定点，用于支持类似医疗旅游服务。我们涉足的领域不仅仅是提供医生，包含技术支持和医务保健人员，甚至还有电脑科学家等聚焦卫生保健和研究用途的领域。”

自1996年起，由爱尔兰国立大学皇家外科学院（RCSI）和爱尔兰皇家内科医学院（UCD）全资拥有的槟城医学院早就获得了国际认可，也被马来西亚卫生系统研究所依据2009-2011年度马来西亚住院（实习）医生表现，评价作为早期职业准备的最顶尖医学院。随着计划将医学院的地位提升到大学阶级，院方将加强学生的学习经验，策划开发新的课程，扩展目前500名学生的物质基础设施。而除了讲师和学生的发展要跟上，同时也重视吸引优秀的员工，并与合作伙伴保持良好的关系。

by Monica Tong

EZ 47, EZ 61 (2)

Penang Fashion Week 2017 槟城时尚周

June 30, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

The Penang Fashion Week 2017 at Gurney Paragon Mall ended at a high note with 27 runway shows featuring local fashion favourite Eric Choong and Bon Zainal, Illiza Ho (Taiwan), Richard Li (Hong Kong) and Mo Hom (Myanmar). Other international brands included Tanya Stevens AHNDE, La Martina and Kate Spade New York. Penang State EXCO for Tourism Development & Culture YB Danny Law Heng Kiang, Malaysian fashion icon Jimmy Choo, Hong Kong celebrity Grace Wong, international model Tuti were among the VIPs who attended this fashion feast with the theme ‘Colours of Spring & Summer’.

在葛尼百丽宫广场举行的2017年槟城时尚周在喝彩声中圆满落幕，而多达27项时装走秀包含国内外时尚界佼佼者如宗柏伸 (Eric Choong)、Bon Zainal、Illiza Ho（台湾），李国华（香港）与 Mo Hom（缅甸）等设计师的精心杰作。至于参与的国际品牌包括 Tanya Stevens AHNDE、La Martina 和纽约 Kate Spade。槟州旅游发展与文化委员会主席罗兴强行政议员、马来西亚时尚典范人物周仰杰、香港艺人王君馨，国际名模Tuti以及其他贵宾也出席这个主题为“春夏的颜色” 之时尚盛宴。

Beyond Boundaries, EZ 47 - Beyond Boundaries, EZ 61 (2)

Standing The Test of Time 鼎立于时间洪流

June 30, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

The Woo Hing Brothers Rolex Boutique in Penang, whose origin dates back to 1950s, remains a preferred and trusted choice amongst customers when it comes to purchasing the world-renowned brand’s luxurious and popular timepieces.

Located at the intersection of Campbell Street and Cintra Street in the heart of George Town, it continues to thrive under the dynamic leadership of the father and son team, Austen and Kevin Wong.

The present-day modern market is currently dominated by large retailers and online stores and such family businesses are a rarity. But they have been able to punch above their weight, going head to head with the bigger entities by building up customer loyalty with an ethical and sincere heart approach and treating each and every customer as a most important one.

“When it comes to buying and servicing a Rolex watch, we are privileged to be the first choice because customers know the level of service expected from us.”

“The world has become very connected, so information about watches and specifications are readily available online. People come to us more informed, and have a good idea of what they want.”

“Our role is to help them understand what they are buying, guide their choices and make those difficult decisions easier,” said the younger Wong, who worked as a human resources consultant in Melbourne until 2014, when he decided to join the family business.

Austen, who was delighted with his son’s decision to come on board, said, “After devoting so many years to this business, it’s fantastic knowing there’s someone in the family to carry it further.”

“It’s a new era of engaging with customers. While we frequently discuss on strategy and operations, he is the one who ultimately calls the shots now. The foundations have been laid for his gradual takeover.”

And it is an experience that Kevin finds highly satisfying. He added, “Having the privilege to participate in a family business such as this is rare. We both spend a lot of time at work finding ways to improve processes, and when certain opportunities appear we share ideas on how to make it work.”

Inside the newly renovated Woo Hing Rolex Boutique, visitors are enveloped in an atmosphere inspired by water and the sea. This evokes the essence of Rolex, which in 1926, invented the Oyster, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch.

A wall of illuminated laser-etched Aqua glass with a gently undulating wave motif provides a focal point, while the gold-effect Rolex crown, an iconic symbol of the brand, decorates the entrance, walls, and display cases. Adding further sophistication are the polished walnut wood cabinets, bronze detailing and Crema Marfil marble floor. It all comes together to create a customer experience that is as luxurious as the watches on display.

Kevin also points to their unparalleled watch expertise and after-sales service, cultivated over six decades of working with Rolex, as factors in their longevity.

坐标在槟城的“Woo Hing Brothers Rolex Boutique”劳力士精品专卖店，这家起源可追溯到上世纪50年代的世界闻名奢华时尚品牌的名表商店，横跨新世纪后依旧是顾客首选和信赖的抉择。

位于乔治市中心新街 (Campbell Street) 和日本横街 (Cintra Street) 的交汇处，由父子兵团 – Austen与Kevin Wong掌舵下的名表专卖店，业务仍昂扬向上。

在如今由大型零售商和网店主导的现代市场，类似家族企业非常罕见。但他们能够以超卓实力，透过强烈的职业道德和真诚的心建立客户忠诚度，将每位顾客视为最重要和唯一的，与更大的实体行业环境进行正面交手抗衡。具备无与伦比的腕表专业知识和体贴的售后服务，尤其是与劳力士合作历经漫长的60年，这也是他们屹立不倒的原因之一。
“当涉及到购买和维修劳力士手表时，我们有幸成为第一选择，因为我们的服务水平绝对能满足客户需求。” Kevin自豪的说。

“在互联网连接的世界，关于手表和规格的信息在网络上无处不在。而人们通过咨询我们并了解情况，也更有概念他们想要的是什么。”

“我们的角色是协助向客户解析他们所购买的商品，引导他们的选项，让抉择不再艰难。”年轻的Kevin曾在澳大利亚墨尔本任职人力资源咨询顾问，直至2014年，他决定加入家族企业。

父亲Austen对儿子的参与欣喜不已。“在这个业务投入多年以后，知道家里还有人愿意接棒，非常的美好。”

“这是一个与客户频密交流的新时代。虽然我们经常议论各种策略和行动，但他是最终发号施令的人。目前也为他的后续接管奠定了基础。”

而Kevin对此经历感到非常满意。“有幸参与类似的家族企业是相当罕见的。我们耗费大量时间寻找提升工作进程的方式，当出现某些机会的时刻，我们会彼此分享解析可行之道以促进推动。”

在他们重新装潢设计的劳力士精品专卖店，参观者将被海洋与水的神秘世界激发的氛围笼罩着。这也带出劳力士品牌的精粹：劳力士在1926年推出全球首枚防水腕表 – 蚝式表 (Oyster)。

一堵被照明的激光蚀刻水玻璃幕墙，还有作为焦点的柔美起伏波浪图案，至于金色闪耀的劳力士皇冠，这个品牌的标志性象征，也装饰了入口、墙壁和陈列柜。另外，抛光的精致胡桃木橱柜、青铜细节设计和西班牙米黄的大理石地板，所有元素汇聚也打造与展示的腕表一样奢华的客户体验。

Woo Hing Rolex Boutique
96 Lebuh Campbell, George Town,  10100 Penang, Malaysia.
Tel : +604 261 5287 • Monday – Saturday : 10:30am – 6:30pm • Sundays and Public holidays closed

EZ 47 - People Culture, EZ 61 (2)

International Luxury Collections Week 2017 • Penang

June 30, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

CHTNetwork held a press conference announcing the International Luxury Collections Week 2017 • Penang. This will be the first-of-its-kind exhibition in Malaysia that provides a prestigious platform for both serious international and local reputable collectors and dealers to showcase the finest and most glamorous items in terms of products and services ranging from vintage automotive, exquisite jewellery, fine arts, genuine antiques, expensive watches, hotels, fashion to restaurants whilst connecting beautiful people and showcasing quality collections. Penang State Minister for Tourism & Culture Danny Law was present to endorse this new and exciting program citing that it will definitely contribute to the Penang tourism economy. The International Luxury Collections Week 2017 • Penang is organised by CHTNetwork, co-organised by Ichi Media, venue proudly sponsored by Gurney Paragon Mall and supported by Penang Art Society and Penang Antique Collectors Association. Further information about the sponsors and exhibitors will be announced on the official Facebook Event Page.

由CHTNetwork主办，马来西亚首次呈现，2017年槟城国际奢华系列周将于10月27日至29日在槟城葛尼百丽宫购物广场举行。这是提供给予国际与本地精品奢华收藏家一个绝佳平台来展现他们的精品珍藏，其中包括有古董车、珠宝、艺术品、古董、精表、酒店、高尚服装、星级餐厅等。

槟州旅游文化发展委员会主席罗兴强行政议员相信这场国际奢华系列周也为槟城打造一个全新的旅游产品，借此展现槟州的多元化特色和高品质地位, 相信可为槟州旅游经济带来可观的效益。

2017年槟城国际奢华系列周是由CHTNetwork主办、Ichi Media协办，槟城葛尼百丽宫购物广场赞助场地，并获得槟城艺术协会和槟州古董收藏协会支持。更多的支持赞助商与参展单位将通过官方面子书宣布。

Breathing Space, EZ 47 - Breathing Space, EZ 61 (2)

A Place For Customized Fine Dining 度身打造的精致饮食

June 29, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Aromatic duck with 7 head South Africa abalone
Highlight of the menu, if you really want to go all the way for fine dining, this is a must order dish as the duck is crispy on the outside and juicy inside, while the abalone brings out the flavour of the sea.
南非七頭鮑魚香酥鴨
店家再推荐我們試這道菜，海陸佳餚衝擊出味蕾火花，這香酥鴨是皮酥肉潤，再配上彈牙的鮑魚，精緻之最都在這盤佳餚中了。

Fine dining is more than just serving premium food in a nice environment, it is also about experiencing the creativity of each dish where sight, smell and taste compliment each other making each individual serving unique and special.

Maple Palace Restaurant in Penang is a must try for diners who demand exquisite dining experiences. A notable restaurant offering a perfect blend of the exotic Asian cuisine and the distinctive Western dishes. Guests not only can choose from its regular menu, Maple Palace can also do special order catering to how extensive the menu should be.

In short, Maple Palace Restaurant is one the the top restaurant in Penang serving a full range from its delicious appetizers, interesting sides, amazing mains to beautiful desserts. Dining here is truly a culinary adventure.

精致餐饮不仅是在一个美好环境中提供优质的食物，更是体会菜肴的创意，尤其是每一道菜肴相得映彰的色、香、味特质，让每个人可享受独特而出众的风味。

对于那些想要感受精美用餐体验的食客来说，槟城的美宝阁餐厅就是这样特别的存在。这家著名的融合菜系餐厅，完美糅合了异国风情的亚洲菜系和独特西餐。顾客不仅可从常规菜单中点餐，还可以根据广泛需求做出特殊点单。

简而言之，作为槟城顶级餐厅之一，美宝阁餐厅可说是让美味升级，从激发味蕾的开胃菜、有趣的佐菜，美妙的主食到幸福的甜点，皆可尽情感受。在这里用餐就是一场华丽的美食冒险。

Cover Story, EZ 46 - Cover Story, EZ 61 (2)

Staying ASLI For Malaysia 为马来西亚留驻ASLI

April 7, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh Oon Kheng

CEO & Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute (ASLI)

Heading one of the major independent think tank in Malaysia is no mean feat but for its co-founder, Tan Sri Dr Michael Yeoh, it is necessary to create a better society through its extensive research work. He co-founded the Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute, known simply as ASLI, back in 1993 and has never turned back.

“Should I choose to retire I am sure ASLI will be in good hands.”

“I cofounded ASLI, 24 years ago in 1993, as Malaysia did not have an independent think tank then. The business community and many others felt there was a need for the country to have an independent think tank like the ones in USA, UK and many other countries,” he said. ASLI was the first private independent think tank set up in Malaysia and now, there are many others following in its footsteps.

He said the main purpose of setting up ASLI was to provide strategic thinking to companies and the government. “It was also to promote debate on public policy issues,” he said.

Yeoh said ASLI had taken up important issues in the country such as education, competitiveness, national unity, green technology and environment.

He, then, mentioned how Malaysians are “over politicking” in recent times. ”The political divisions is both at an ethnic and socio-economic angle. The Malays seem to be returning strong support to the UMNO and Barisan Nasional whilst the Chinese continue to strongly support the Opposition. Meanwhile we see the socio-economic divide along class lines, between the poor and the wealthy, the urban and rural voters,” he said.

He said it is rather worrying that race relations in the country is causing more division between the people. He felt that it is time for all to get back to middle ground.

He said each Malaysian need to have respect for one another, be tolerant and have better understanding of other races’ sensitivities. “We must find common space for our students and teenagers to mingle and mix in a multiracial environment,” he said and suggested sports and art as unifies.

Recently, ASLI is ranked to be among the world’s top 100 think tanks out of 7,000 think tanks in the world by the University of Pennsylvania in USA. It is also ranked 4th in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, effectively placing it in top placing in Malaysia. It has also won the Brand Laurete Award and many other awards.

Yeoh personally too has several awards to his name, the most recent being the INPenang Lifetime Achievement Award. He feels that the most satisfying achievement for him is being conferred the Doctor of Laws by the University of Nottingham in Britain, it is one of the UK’s top universities. “Of course being conferred a Tan Sriship is also satisfying,” he added.

However, it is not all work and no play for Yeoh. He enjoys travelling immensely and always make it a point to visit new countries he has never been before, each year. “Last year, I visited Morocco for the first time and the previous year I visited Portugal also for the first time,” he said. He also made sure that he sets aside time for his family to maintain a healthy work-life balance. “Family life is important and I do take family holidays at least twice a year,” he said.

Though he is now past 60, retirement is not something he has considered just yet. There is still a lot more that he felt he could do. “Should I choose to retire I am sure ASLI will be in good hands,” he said. So, for now, Yeoh will continue to lead the think tank to greater achievements.

“我们在24年前，也就是1993年创立ASLI，因为当时马来西亚无独立的智囊团，商界和许多人认为国家应该具备一个独立的智囊团，犹如美国，英国或许多国家。”

作为马来西亚主要并领先的独立智囊团之一绝非易事，亚洲策略与领导研究院（ASLI）联合创办人丹斯里杨元庆博士更是想通过广泛的研究工作创造一个更美好的社会。因此，他在1993年义无反顾的共同成立ASLI。

“我们在24年前，也就是1993年创立ASLI，因为当时马来西亚无独立的智囊团，商界和许多人认为国家应该具备一个独立的智囊团，犹如美国，英国或许多国家。”ASLI是马来西亚设立的首个私人独立智库，现在，跟随步伐的组织也日与增加。

而设立ASLI的主要目的是为公司企业和政府提供战略思维。他说，这也是为了促进和推动公共政策问题的讨论。“ASLI至今已经协助处理国家的重要课题，如教育、竞争力、国家团结，绿色科技和环境。”

然而，他也忧心忡忡的提到马来西亚人在近年来是如何 “过度政治化”。他说，政治分裂显现在种族和社会经济方面。巫统和国阵似乎受到马来人强力回头支持，而华人却继续拥护反对党，同时可以看到社会经济的贫富差距越来越大，尤其是城市与乡间的选民分歧。

他说，更令人担心的是，国家的种族关系正进一步分化人民，他觉得现在是所有人退回到中间线的时候了。

他认为，每个马来西亚人都需相互尊重，容忍和更好地了解其他种族的敏感性。“我们必须为学生和青少年找到共同空间，在多元种族的环境中更融合。” 他认为体育和艺术会是团结的催化剂。

最近，美国宾夕法尼亚大学评选的世界7000个智囊团中，ASLI也成为全球前100智囊团之一，并且在东南亚和太平洋地区排名第四，这也是马来西亚取得的最高位置，同时也获得Brand Laurete 大奖和许多奖项。

杨元庆个人也拥有许多荣誉，最近获得INPenang的终身成就奖。他最骄傲的成就是被顶尖的英国学府之一英国诺丁汉大学授予法律博士学位。“当然被赐予丹斯里勋衔也令人感到荣耀。” 他补充说。

工作之余杨元庆也并非全无休闲时间。他热爱旅游，每年总是会安排之前未踏足的国家进行旅游。“去年，我第一次到摩洛哥，再前年我去了葡萄牙。” 他还确保空出时间与家人团聚，保持工作与生活健康平衡。“家庭生活很重要，我每年至少休两次家庭假期。”

目前已经逾60岁，但尚未考虑退休，他觉得要做的事情还有很多。“一旦我确认ASLI已经得到很好的照顾，应该才会选择退休。” 所以，现在杨元庆将继续带领智囊团往着成就的高峰走去。

Captains & Legends, EZ 46 - Captains & Legends, EZ 61 (2)

Sky Titan 空中巨擘

April 7, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Nivat Chantarachoti

General Manager of Thai Airways

“Thai Airways has an excellent safety record.”

The young and cherub-face gentleman’s manner and appearance belie his age. Well-suited, he steps into the room with an air of confidence and warmth albeit the black ribbon on his lapel, clearly still expressing his mourning for the loss of Thailand’s beloved King Bhumibol. Thai national Nivat Chantarachoti is the general manager of Thai Airways International, overseeing Malaysia and Brunei, one of the most challenging and competitive air-travel routes in the world. Currently pursuing his Doctorate Degree in Business Administration with the Business Science Institute of Luxembourg, his highly relevant research on ‘The Impact of Low-Cost Carriers in the Aviation Industry’ takes up the lion share of his time, when not in office. However, he did not start out as a master of the sky initially.

Fresh out of college in Manila, Philippines, young Nivat Chantarachoti had a short stint as an English instructor with TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication), but he could not reign in his love for air travel and the mastering of business in new horizons. So, he set his heart on joining Thai Airways, a move many of his fellow countrymen clamour for. “I joined Thai Airways in 1989, as a flight attendant. It is the dream of new graduates to travel and see the world. Therefore, it is the pride of most Thai people to work for Thai Airways because it is the national carrier of Thailand. Furthermore, Thai Airways is a public enterprise and a very stable organisation,” he explains.

Nivat’s childhood spanned across a few continents. “My father is a Thai diplomat and we lived abroad most of our lives.

I spent several years living in Vientiane, New York, and Manila during my childhood. I did most of my studies in the US and at an international school in Bangkok. In the Philippines, I completed my Bachelor Degree in Computer Science when my father was with the Royal Thai Embassy in Manila. I got my MBA while working for Thai Airways and am currently pursuing my PhD.”

Clocking an impressive 28 years with Thai Airways, Nivat has managed Thai Airways offices in Australia, France, Indonesia, Bangladesh, the Philippines and Switzerland before Malaysia and Brunei. “My years as a flight attendant gave me valuable perspective and I was able to see and experience the destinations we are selling,” he gathers.

Thai Airways business slogan ‘The First Choice Carrier with Touches of Thai’ is not an easy goal to achieve. “Thai Airways has been around since 1960, making us 57 years old this year. Our fleet of over 95 aircrafts fly to more than 80 destinations around the world,” Nivat announces with pride.

“Thai people are famous for their kind hospitality or what is often referred to as ‘Thai-ness’. This signature brand of hospitality is what sets us apart from the rest of the airlines.”

The next sentence Nivat utters is what every air passenger wants to hear these days, “Thai Airways has an excellent safety record.” Apart from safety, Thai Airways has been the winner of the Best Cabin Crew Award on numerous occasions. “Our strategy is to differentiate our product. We are renowned for our in-flight service called the Royal Orchid Service. Thai people are famous for their kind hospitality or what is often referred to as ‘Thai-ness’. This signature brand of hospitality is what sets us apart from the rest of the airlines,” Nivat adds.

Whatever little time this engaging personality has, after work and academic pursuits, is either spent on the treadmill at the gym or on a plush Thai Airways aircraft seat, bound for new destinations and exciting experiences in faraway lands.

年轻的娃娃脸，加上绅士气度的外型让他适度隐藏实际年龄。仪表出众的他在步入房间时展现了自信温暖的氛围，而一缕黑色丝带依然别在他的领子，这是对泰国民众崇敬爱戴的普密蓬国王 (King Bhumibol) 的辞世表达哀悼之意。

身为泰国国际航空公司的总经理，泰籍的Nivat Chantarachoti 负责监管马来西亚和文莱的区域，可说是全球最具挑战性和竞争力的航空旅行路线之一。目前他在卢森堡商业科学研究所攻读工商管理博士学位，至于 “廉价航空对于航空工业的影响”的相关研究，已经占据了他工作之外的大部分时间。然而，他最初并没有成为空中主角的念头。在菲律宾马尼拉的学院毕业后，年轻的他为国际交流英语考试 (TOEIC) 担任短暂的英语讲师工作，但他无法抑制对航空旅行和开拓新业务视野的爱与渴望。所以，他跟随自己的意愿，加入泰国航空公司，这也是令他的同胞欣羡不已的举动。“我在1989年作为乘务员加入泰国航空公司，这是社会新鲜人梦想：旅行和看世界。而且在大多数泰国人感到自豪的泰航工作，泰航除了是国营航空公司的象征，也是非常稳定、实力强大的公共企业和组织。”他解释说。

“泰国人以独特的热情款待或所谓的“泰民族性”闻名，也是殷勤好客的招牌使我们与其他航空公司有区别。”

Nivat的童年生活飞越数个大洲。“我父亲是泰国外交官，因此大部分的时间在国外度过。我童年时期在万象、纽约和马尼拉度过数年，并在美国，还有曼谷的一所国际学校进行大半段的学习生涯。当我的父亲在菲律宾任职泰国驻马尼拉大使时，我完成了电脑科学与技术学士学位。我在泰航工作期间取得工商管理硕士，目前正在攻读博士。”

另外，他与泰航至今长达28年的服务期限也令人印象深刻。在马来西亚和文莱之前，曾主管泰国航空在澳大利亚、法国、印尼，孟加拉，菲律宾和瑞士的办事处业务。“乘务员就业经验提供了非常有价值的视野，我能够更深入了解展开营销的地点。”

至于泰国航空公司的口号:“触摸泰国的首选航空”不是一个轻易实现的目标。“泰航创立于1960年左右，今年57岁。我们有逾95架的飞机飞往世界各地80多个目的地。” Nivat 骄傲地宣布。

而接下来Nivat的宣称也是每个乘客最近想听到的。“泰国航空具备相当好的安全记录。”除了安全，泰航已多次在不同场合获得最佳乘务组奖。我们的战略是善于区分本身产品，并以空中的“皇家胡姬花服务”称誉。泰国人以独特的热情款待或所谓的“泰民族性”而闻名，也是殷勤好客的招牌使我们与其他航空公司有区别。” Nivat 补充说。

无论是繁忙的工作和学术追求，闲暇在健身房的跑步机上，或者在泰国航空公司飞机的座位上，他永远不忘锁定新目的地，在遥远的土地上感受令人兴奋的体验。

by Billie Ooi – Ng Lean Gaik