THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

THE ASIA PACIFIC BRANDS FOUNDATION

Founded in 2005, the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation (APBF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to developing brands in a myriad of business backdrops. Led by its Patron, H.E. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia’s fourth Prime Minister, together with a Board of Governors who are experienced captains of industries and H.E. Tun Dr. Mahathir Dr KKJohan Datuk Wira Jalilah Baba YM Raja Datuk Ropiaah Chew Bee Peng Ybhg. Tan Sri Dato’ Seri established brand icons. Mohamad President Advisor binti Raja Abdullah CEO Dr Aseh Che Mat Patron Secretary General Chairman The power of branding is a visual, auditory and sensory experience which is undoubtedly vital to the success of brands. Brands are catalysts that transcend achieving objectives, making profits or establishing one’s status so that it appeals to consumers. In reality, consumers’ buying preferences are determined by the way brands attract and engage them.

It is crucial that organizations realize the significance of brands and branding. Likewise, consumers must also be educated and informed concerning the qualities of good brands and best-branding practices. This is where the APBF steps in to develop the ‘art of branding’.

With aspirations to encourage the awareness of branding in Malaysia and across the world, the APBF takes an active role in identifying and nurturing outstanding Malaysian brands on an international platform. The Foundation continuously champions its mission to educate and communicate the ‘value of branding’ – with Tunku Dato’ Seri Tan Sri Datuk Seri Tan Sri Dato’ Hamad Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Tan Sri Leong Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Shahabuddin Tunku the concept that brand culture, combined with good practices, will give Malaysia the edge, even against the Tony Fernandes,OBE Kama Piah bin Che Dr. Teh Hong Piow Hoy Kum Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Paduka Dr. M. Mahadevan Besar Burhanuddin world’s most advanced nations. Othman Dr Lim Kok Wing

Starting off on a modest note with publication of branding articles in print media, the APBF has gradually evolved into an association which organizes branding seminars and forums to discuss the latest issues and developments in branding. The commitment of the organization in encouraging the performance of businesses through branding has seen the launch of the Tun Dr. Mahathir - The BrandLaureate Lecture Series, with the aim of furthering the objectives of the APBF.

After its establishment, the APBF has embarked upon a number of initiatives through The BrandLaureate to support its brand mission. Among the significant events initiated include The BrandLaureate Awards, first YBhg Tan Sri Datuk Tan Sri Datuk Puan Sri Datin Seri in 2006; for Multinationals (MNCs), Public Listed Companies (PLCs), Trans-National Corporations (TNCs), Rear Admiral Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dato’ Jimmy Choo, (Dr.) Haji Mustapha Dr. Augustine Dr. Susan S.C. Cheah Dato’ Anne Eu Tan Sri Dr Ramon Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Darshan Singh Gill OBE Government Linked Corporations (GLCs) and Large Corporations (LCs). With the success of the awards, the K. Thanabalasingam Kamal Ong Soon Hock Navaratnam APBF then launched The BrandLaureate – SMEs Chapter Awards (now renamed SMEs BestBrands Awards) to (Rtd) honour the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

A visionary organization, the APBF aims to continue to take branding into a new dimension via its heartfelt commitment and undying passion.

The World’s Dato’ Sieh Kok Chi Datuk Dr. Dato’ Haji Abdul Dato’ Lawrence Dato’ Seri Dr (Hj) Dato’ Dr. Sheikh Datuk Lee Alex Yoong Ms. Amber Chia P.H.S. Lim Rahman Mohamed Chan Kum Peng Mohamed Mydin Muszaphar Shukor Chong Wei BEST BRANDS Bin Md Musa Al Masrie the trophy

The BrandLaureate SMES BestBrands Awards 2014 is specially designed to reflect the theme of the Award - Branding Driven, Driven by Branding. The 24k gold plated trophy illustrates the growth of the SME and its route to success, driven by the principles of branding.

Starting at the circular base, which signifies the start of the brand, it moves upwards and branches out into 7 stems. These 7 stems incorporates important elements of branding, namely the 7 “A”s of branding which are : BRANDING DRIVEN,DRIVEN BY BRANDING Aspiration Astute Adroit Branding is the process of creating a unique brand experience for Do You Have the 7 “A”s of Branding? the consumers and at the same time, establishing a significant SMEs must realise they are not selling products but brands and Acuity and differentiated presence in the market.It makes sense to the route to selling brands is to ensure that they have the 7 ‘A’s of Adaptable understand that branding is not only about getting your prospects branding in their brand blueprint. First and foremost, brands must Awareness to choose you over the competition, but about getting them to see have and be : Altruistic you as the ONLY ONE that provides solutions to their needs. Strong Aspiration – The ability to achieve the brand vision brands reside within the hearts and minds of customers and as These 7 “A”s or attributes are important as it forms the very basic foundation of branding. the battle for consumers intensifies each day, brands need strong Astute – A good brand strategy to enable you to meet your branding to help them maintain their turf. aspiration Brands must know what their ASPIRATIONS are, if not they will be moving blindly. They must also be ASTUTE and have an intelligent brand blueprint which details the roadmap that it will take to Branding has become an important component for business and Adroit – Be skilful and agile to manoeuvre challenges and seize achieve its aspiration. It must be ADROIT to move fast to address the challenges of the day and this applies to all businesses, especially SMEs that have to fight on opportunities seize the opportunities present and at the same time have the ACUITY to understand its strength not only amongst SMEs but the big boys. SMEs need branding to and weakness and that of its competitors and industry. stay ahead if they want their brands to have stronger leadership Acuity – Sharpness to identify strengths and weakness of the and positioning. brand, competitors and industry Brands must be ADAPTABLE and innovative if they want to stay relevant and target different markets or cross borders as different ethnic groups and countries have different culture and SMEs contribute significantly to a nation’s economic development. Adaptable – Innovate and re-invent itself to meet consumers need expectations. Creating AWARENESS is important for brand visibility. Brands need a strong Successful countries have a pool of strong SMEs that help drive communication strategy to promote and engage its customers, less they be forgotten. Lastly, their economic engines. In Malaysia, this is no different. Malaysian Awareness – Be visible and engage customers through their brands must be ALTRUISTIC. While accumulating profits is important, consumers love brands that SMEs contribution tothe country’s economic development is communication strategy have a keen sense of social responsibility and give back to the community. growing year on year. The second generation of SMEs are now bringing their fore-fathers business abroad and the new breed of Altruistic- Give back and support the community it operates in These 7 stems further branch up to form the base for The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands SMEs entrepreneurs are using the latest Internet channels to grow Awards emblem, a symbol of brand excellence for SMEs. The emblem which envelopes the globe their brands. All these augur well for the SMEs but there is still a Once the 7 “A”s are functional and well managed, it will be a signifies the success of the brand in having a global presence. The brand is now at the APEX and long way to go for SMEs in terms of branding. matter of time that your brand reach the APEX of the industry and in leadership position, a culmination of the efforts put in branding the brand. be the BRAND LEADER with DISTINCTION. Only branding will allow While SMEs understand the need and importance to have a brand, and enable you to do that. The Mark of Distinction many do not fully understand the concept of branding, which The SMEs BrandLaureate trophy is a symbol of brand supremacy and exudes dynamism and is the science and art of building a brand. Without branding, no Does your brand have the 7 “A”s of Branding? Brand Driven, Driven confidence. It is a mark of distinction and reserved only for the finest SMEs who have built their organisation or business is going to grow and stand out in the by Branding for success! brands to be the best and contributed to the nation’s development through their brands. competition and that is the true brutal fact which all businesses need to acknowledge. Content

01 The Asia Pacific Brands Foundation When a Brand is driven, 02 Board of Governors of the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation and driven right, 03 Theme : Branding Driven, Driven By Branding 04 The Trophy it will reach a specific point 07 Message by the Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia where it ‘drives’ itself! 08 Message by the Patron of the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation There’s no stopping it then as it drifts on 09 Message by the Advisor of the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation the superhighway of champions, 10 Message by the Chairman of the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation accelerating it into greatness as it lines 11 Message by the President of The BrandLaureate 12 Message by the CEO of The BrandLaureate up the history books! 14 The BrandLaureate SMEs Brandleadership Awards ....Dr KKJohan 38 The BrandLaureate Brand Champion for SMEs 42 The BrandLaureate SMEs Corporate Branding Awards 82 The BrandLaureate SMEs Product Branding Awards 96 Event Snapshots 102 The BrandLaureate SMEs Signature Branding Awards 122 The BrandLaureate SMEs Master Awards 132 The BrandLaureate SMEs Star Brand Awards YAB. DATO’ SERI NAJIB TUN HAJI ABDUL RAZAK H.E. TUN DR. MAHATHIR MOHAMMAD PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA PATRON OF THE ASIA PACIFIC BRANDS FOUNDATION

Congratulations to all of you SMEs that have won Take courage and be bold. Meeting the demands of These are challenging times in the history of our strategy to meet aspirations; have the aptitude the coveted and prestigious The BrandLaureate your brand is a gradual uphill task. In the domain of nation. But what are we if not made resilient by to be skilful, agile and manoeuvrable enough to SMEs BestBrands Awards. Let start by asking you, SMEs, it is even harder, but it must be done. After trials and tribulations? What are we if not enduring weather storms and seize opportunities; exercise what does your brand demand of you? What would all, what your brand demands is simply the best so in the face of adversity? Despite such volatile times, the sharpness to recognize the pros and cons of the your brand want reflected when people think of it? it can be the best – and you can be part of the best. it never ceases to amaze me how the Asia Pacific brand, its competitors and the field or industry; to Every brand does not merely demand the best – it And your being here today is definitely indicative of Brands Foundation (APBF) diligently propels great be able to innovate and reinvent itself to the needs deserves the best! And why not? In the end, you are your calibre as quality brand drivers. But there is brands season in and season out, inadvertently and demands of the times; to be visible, reachable the reflection of the brand, and equally the brand, always room for betterment as the sky is the limit refining brands that ultimately become the and impactful in to the consumer strata; and to be a reflection of you. Driving your brand beyond the when it comes to branding – and then some! economic building blocks of our nation. able to give back to society. norm will succinctly usher in a new dimension to your brand network. You deserve to be congratulated at this juncture I am inspired by the 7 ‘A’s’ of Branding as expounded By exuding such strong traits, it is no wonder that – you have fought the good fight and won The by the APBF; being comprised of Aspiration, only the most extraordinary SME brands have been In this demanding age, ask yourself how equipped BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards on your Astute, Adroit, Acuity, Adaptable, Awareness and sieved from the vast entrepreneurial surround. I am you are to drive the needs and requirements of own merit. Hold on to that combating spirit as you Altruistic. With such a sound foundation rooted in both delighted and comforted to have your brands your brand in the direction of the glorious realm of strive to be Branding Driven, Driven by Branding, the fertile soil of branding, any brand, no matter how as the centrifugal force of the economic terrain in excellence? Are you ready to stand proudly amongst leaving your mark in history. Know that you are ordinary it may appear at a glance, has the calibre this nation. I urge you to continue to excel in your the ‘big boys’ and not feel or be seen to be out of amongst the best and the road ahead is paved with and potential to be elevated to a higher standard respective fields and contribute the very best that your league? How steady and firm is your footing greater success as long as you stay committed to and entrenched into greater depths. you are to the country and the world. I trust that you when the ground trembles in the face of trials and your brand. are the distinction that the nation has been hoping tribulations? How resolute is your constitution when Such are vital traits for any brand to have, granting it for. the very challenges you most fear stand in the way? the ability to achieve its vision, practice good brand

H. E. Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad YAB Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Haji Abdul Razak YBHG. TAN SRI DATO’ SERI DR ASEH CHE MAT YBHG DATUK WIRA JALILAH BABA CHAIRMAN OF THE ASIA PACIFIC BRANDS FOUNDATION ADVISOR OF THE ASIA PACIFIC BRANDS FOUNDATION

My breath is taken away whenever I think of brands When a Brand is driven, and driven right, it will It pleases me greatly to address the crème de la Core composites such as vision, passion, drive, that have endured the volatile and unpredictable reach a specific point where it ‘drives’ itself! And crème in the realm of SMEs. It is the SMEs that hunger, ambition, care, integrity and many more economic environment, in the end coming up on then there’s no stopping it; there’s no turning back invariably form the intricate carapace which holds are found in all successful brands; but in varying top. As savvy brand captains, your noteworthy – because the brand’s cruise control then ‘drifts’ it together the very engine of business in this nation. degrees. The brand determines how much of these capabilities in navigating the course of your brand onto the superhighway of champions, accelerating And clearly you know not just how important you ‘raw materials’ it requires ‘to taste’. And when the has ultimately steered the contraption of branding it into greatness as it lines up the history books! are – but how vital it is for you to be recognized for balance is ideal and the mix is just right, premium to new frontiers of excellence; namely The And I can think of no better way to describe this the best that you are! branding comes into play. BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards 2014! experience than this year’s theme: Branding Driven, Driven by Branding! When the brand compass is set properly, you will Driving a brand requires the care and skill of In this day and age, it is all about driving brands. identify the direction the brand needs to go in order prioritizing the component factors that will sustain We are implored to take on the mind of a brand and Any business riding on the inertia of such speed to come up on top and stay afloat. Branding, like the the brand during the long trip ahead. Understanding fathom how it would drive itself – via the ‘Autocruise control automatically ‘accelerates’ when the brand odyssey of life itself, is more than just a destination what your brand needs and preparing ahead is of Branding’ of course! An entrenched brand sets its which backs it is widely known, well-embraced, – it is a wholesome journey. What drives a brand to pivotal in embarking upon a good and productive ideal speed and destination and then keeps vigilant highly esteemed and deeply appreciated by peers stay on that journey – a journey that will lead to the journey. Always remember that a fruitful and in order to reach its desired target in the best way and rivals alike. Resonating this deep note, today desired destination? The desire to excel! For it is productive voyage will be a persuasive factor in possible. you stand on the fast track, acknowledged amongst the latent desire of any brand to thrive forever – for arriving at the best destination for your brand. fellow brand drivers, in the domain of distinction. no brand intends to be short lived. The APBF bids you to stand tall and be recognized! The Asia Pacific Brands Foundation is absolutely Being epitomes of branding in your respective fields, thrilled to recognize your brand as an indispensable you must already know that certain ingredients component in the economic cornerstone of this ought to be in place before a brand can safely nation and beyond. Brand on to achieve your goals embark on its journey. And these vital constituents and make the nation proud! can, at times, be as unique as the brand itself.

Ybhg. Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Aseh Che Mat YBhg Datuk Wira Jalilah Baba DR. KKJOHAN CHEW BEE PENG PRESIDENT OF THE BRANDLAUREATE CEO OF THE BRANDLAUREATE

What is the true motivation for you in your business footing in the economic arena and the greater the I am thrilled to see more and more SMEs step embracing said function, it becomes an efficient as exemplary SME brands? What drives you to likelihood and probability of you finding sustenance up and up their game year after year, adding the branding phenomenon; a brand which engine excel? Are you driven to shine because your brand for continued survival. uniqueness of their presence to the ecosystem of is in-built is a wholesome entity – able to move wants you to? Just pause for a moment and imagine brands and branding. when other brands are out of juice. Such brands if your brand has a mind of its own. What if, like If you are overcome by your brand, your entire of distinction are cut from finer cloth – able to every sentient being, your brand wants to ensure its thoughts will be geared towards leaving an Branding gets the brand to where it needs to go. withstand tumultuous times and emerge victorious. own survival? How will it drive itself to live beyond impression that transcends the norm. You would In our ongoing notion of driving brands, it is pivotal You are embodiments of such brands. its expected or projected lifespan? What will your want to drive your brand to become more than a that such a vehicle should be in optimum condition brand do in order to keep itself alive? detached name in folks’ lives. You would aspire to for the best performance. By being in top form, it As brand drivers, remember to always keep your become an integral part of peoples’ lives in as many will get the driver and passengers safely to their branding wheels in check – ensure the tyre threads This year’s theme resonates: Branding Driven, aspects as possible – to transcend the disconnected destination safely. The driving of brands cannot are not worn out for premium road grip and that Driven by Branding. In truth, to be branding driven realm of branding into one of emotional ties, be done if the vehicle of branding is out of synch; the wheels are beautifully aligned and balanced is to take on the mind of a brand – not just from an nostalgia and good feelings, perhaps even as nor can it be done effectively if the vehicle is not to stay on course. Keep your brand’s steering external point of view – but from an intrinsic one; a household name – in which a brand attains its in first-rate performance condition. Being branding wheel centred for prime handling. Ensure that your as if your very life depended on it! Such out-of-the- ‘immortality’. driven and driven by branding encompasses a capacity for branding is not impaired by anything, no ordinary brand survival craftsmanship comes from foolproof two-way effort – a harmonious symbiosis matter how trivial it might appear. Conditions within a deep place in the heart of branding. A brand wishes to never die. It will do all it can to and synergy of the all essential elements in play. your control ought to be optimum for branding. By stay alive and thrive. It will do its very best to stay earnestly preserving only the best interest of the As you take on the ‘mind’ of your brand, your driving afloat and not drown, nor gasp for air. A brand will The vehicle of branding cannot be better empowered brand in mind and heart, gear on forward whilst force will be renewed; with your motivation now fight for its survival, for its rights, for its rightful than by the brand itself. In this higher quadrant, the raising your brand to the very best that it can be! originating from within – simply because you (the destiny as the best that it can be. As the winner brand provides the driving force behind its own brand) want to stay alive. The branding instinct of The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards advancement, and branding becomes a perpetual Such is the engine that impels and gives speed kicks in – it becomes a matter of survival – survival 2014 remember that your brand is now able to drive – moving the brand forward, and in doing so, to this year’s theme: Branding Driven, Driven by of the fittest! The drive will primarily be geared masterfully hurl the business to immeasurable sustaining branding and nurturing brand growth. Branding! Remember to keep your motors warm towards fame in the game – the more people know altitudes over unthinkable distances at notable The brand carries the needed momentum to sustain and constantly running – for the grand race of you, the deeper your roots will go. And the deeper speeds! its own trajectory and propulsion. By the brand branding is never really over! your roots go, the better your chances of a firm

Chew Bee Peng Dr. KKJohan Branding Driven, Driven by Branding The Grand Race of Branding is a passion, the brandlaureate continuous journey of SMES Brand Leadership Awards Performance and Perseverance!

....Dr KKJohan the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME man of the year

An Affinity for tiles For Ngei, chasing growth blindly is not his priority, CC Ngei has always been around tiles. As a child, he but what is important is the company building an would help his father, a tile distributor, to tidy up identity. This philosophy has placed Feruni ahead of after mosaic tiles to get pocket money. After dropping its competitors, in terms of company culture, product out from school, he continued to work in his father’s innovation and retail experience. business – which created the perfect platform to pick up the tips and tricks of the trade. 11 years later, he A detailed-oriented individual, Ngei believes the tiniest ventured into his own tile trading business with partners. details, when combined together, can create a big impact Not one to rest on his laurels of success, after nine years with time. The Managing Director is gung-ho about being in the business, he realized that there was hardly any adaptable and innovative, and is open to new elements, innovation in the industry when it came to products and learning and studying from other industry players. He is services. This made him set up Feruni Ceramiche with a instrumental in transforming the success factors of others new set of partners in 2010. and incorporating it into Feruni’s business philosophy.

With the drive to change the industry, Ngei is a Bold in his business decisions and life, Ngei is a risk-taker courageous entrepreneur who is prepared to take risks. – making the transition in the company’s business model He ignored all objections and disapprovals and started from distribution to retail. With this decision, Feruni selling only one brand of tiles. Ngei also introduced is the pioneer in the tiling industry to invest in a retail MR. C.C. NGEI avant-garde ceramic tile designs, built the Feruni brand – concept store and thus has set itself apart from the other MANAGING DIRECTOR, FERUNI CERAMICHE which streamlined the buying experience for customers. players in the industry. Today, Feruni is the market leader in the premium ceramic growing PersonAlly & ProfessionAlly tile market with an annual turnover of around RM100 No stranger to disappointments, Ngei experienced million. Driven by CC Ngei’s Vision of making things tumultuous moments when the business initially simple, convenient and pleasant for the customers, declined in the first year after the implementation of Feruni made history by setting up a boutique showroom retailing. However, over the past three years, the brand with full service and operational management module in has achieved a double-digit growth. With a never-give- the same year it was established. up attitude, the Brand Champion saw sales from Feruni’s retail store going from RM300,000 in 2010 to RM1 million The trendy two-storey showroom in Petaling Jaya has in 2014! a ‘lifestyle feel’, with backdrops consisting of home settings like bathrooms, kitchens and living rooms. The man who walks the talk when it comes to innovation, Customers are able to experience for themselves the is also serious about changing himself. innovative changes that Feruni has introduced. Despite to his lack of formal education, Ngei set goals for DAring enough to tAKe risKs himself – he improved his command of English and honed In the success of his business, Ngei believes in putting the his management skills. Every year, he sets a to-read list, right people at the right place while striving to develop which includes 20 books; and allocates 30 days a year for every individual talent within the organization. For him, professional courses. Ngei exercises three times a week the company structure and management team play an and ensures that he spends quality time with his family important role in paving the path of success. Ngei’s head and sets time for Bible studies. staff have the qualities of Professionalism, Direction and Teamwork – to drive his Vision forward.

16 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME entrepreneur of the year

ProfounDly PAssionAte About ProPerty Not surprisingly called the ‘White Knight’ by Prime Dato’ Sri Yap Ngan Choy is best known as the head of Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, the company’s the boutique property developer, NCT. His career took off Mission is to continue to enhance lives; and is happy to at the age of 18, as a trainee with a Shanghai master. take on the impossible and bring abandoned projects Industrious and disciplined, he took upon himself to back to life. learn as much as he could and develop his skills – not only in his career – but personally too. insPiring viA imProvisAtion & innovAtion More than just the Founder of the NCT Group, Dato’ Sri His foray into the construction industry started with the Yap is described as ‘the grounding pillar’ of the company. establishment of Nicety Tiling and NCT Tiling Sdn. Bhd. in His ability to seek opportunities and solve problems has 1985. The young and passionate Dato’ Sri Yap took a leap earned him recognition and respect within the property of faith to start the business, and worked his way to the industry. This revered Brand Champion works with the top, eventually becoming the Group Managing Director philosophy that long term and trustworthy relationships of NCT Venture Corporation Sdn. Bhd. and Managing can be built through value and trust building. Director of NCT Building & Civil Engineering Sdn. Bhd. Dato’ Sri Yap strongly believes in NCT’s Group Mission Today, Dato’ Sri Yap has over 30 years of experience in Statement of ‘Delivering Only The Best’. Keeping this in the property industry. He also sits on the board of several mind, he instils a culture of excellence when it comes YBHG DATO’ SRI YAP NGAN CHOY companies within the NCT Group of Companies. He to fulfilling the projects that the group has committed GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR, NCT VENTURE CORPORATION continues to play a vital role in making the business a to. With the aim to have complete customer satisfaction, leader in the industry. the group is dedicated in its quest to provide clients with a quality lifestyle via its properties. the ‘white Knight’ Armed with a sense for business, Dato’ Sri Yap is known By adopting a high standard of professionalism and to have the marked ability to spot opportunities. This integrity in the operation of the companies and its veiled talent has been instrumental in his decisions to subsidiaries, Dato’ Sri Yap and his team of knowledgeable take on abandoned projects. One such project was the and innovative staff continue to stay updated with Bandar Salak Perdana project, which was abandoned for the latest technology and cost-effective construction almost 15 years, In 2012; through the collaboration of methods to maximize benefits for customers. MBSB NCT Group and KPKT. The entrepreneur persuaded over 700 families affected by the standstill to continue Besides working on establishing a corporate environment rebuilding the area and this earned him a reputation of that focuses on teamwork and personal development, integrity among Malaysians. Dato’ Sri Yap, through the operations of the group, takes high competency and continual learning culture After successfully redeveloping Salak Perdana, NCT seriously. Together with the staff at NTC, he strives for continued with another abandoned project, this time progress and development through the enrichment in Genting Highlands. Now called Ion D’Elemen, the of skills and continuous improvement of products and project will soon be the latest addition to the highland’s services. landscape. No stranger to innovation, the property he envisions will have an ‘international feel’ – with the A hands-on leader, Dato’ Sri Yap has steered NCT Group concept design from an Australian firm and interior of Companies to be in the forefront of the property design by a Hong Kong company. The property will be development industry – with quality projects and services managed by hotel chain, Best Western Premier. that go beyond customer expectations.

18 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME ceo of the year

from CorPorAte to PrivAte first prototype was ready and submitted to SIRIM for Michelle Hah is one of Malaysia’s women powerhouses testing. After their approval and thumbs up from the with many admirers. Her journey in the working world Fire Department, the company finally started producing started after she completed her Diploma in Professional Made In Malaysia fire extinguishers one year later – a Management from the Management Institution of milestone for both Hah and Soo. Personnel Management (MIPM). Not one to rest on her laurels, she continued to design Starting off her career in the Property Development more prototypes for the company, including the portable department at Sime Darby Group (previously called SIME fire extinguisher. The husband and wife team was also UEP) she served the company for almost 20 years. While responsible for bringing in different types of products for she was there, she took on various roles including in different environments to Malaysia. Today the market the human resource, sales and marketing. Enjoying her leader produces, maintains, and is able to design the work there, she was not keen to join in the business set ideals systems in fire fighting for the environment and up in 1974 by her husband Jeffrey Soo. However, after building; and is the only company in Malaysia with all much persuasion and her third child, she decided to go ISO certification for firefighting which includes servicing, on board Fire Fighter Industry as Executive Director. maintenance and installation.

It was a move that changed the course of the company A lADy with tAlent AnD CourAge MADAM MICHELLE HAH to greater heights. Initially, Hah had her own learning A determined and hardworking fighter, Michelle has DIRECTOR, FIRE FIGHTER INDUSTRY curve in her new position. Realising it was different than risen amidst the challenges she faced in a predominantly selling houses, she had a lot to learn. The keen learner male environment. Her can-do attitude has given her took initiative and effort to learn the ins and outs of the the edge while making changes happen for Fire Fighter business. Industry.

She learnt to do many things including being an operator, Besides her pioneering role as Director at the company, secretary and accounts clerk. She faced challenges when she lends her expertise and experience on several boards. it came to learning the technical aspects of the business. Since 2007, she has been a part of the SIRIM Working Her positive attitude helped her find her footing in the Group in reviewing Malaysian Standards on Portable daily operations of the company. While the husband and Fire Extinguishers. From 2009 to 2011, she was honorary wife team had their own disagreements, they remained secretary of the Malaysian Fire Protection Association focused and successfully worked out their hitches. (MFPA).

steering fire fighter’s suCCess She is currently serving as a Committee Member in Over the years, Michelle had a crucial role of steering Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) Women Fire Fighter Industry in the right direction and achieving in Business, International Business Committee and FMM milestones in between. Her corporate experience Selangor Branch Exco. She was appointed the Bureau provided her with the ability to change the course of Chairman of Occupational Safety & Health Awareness of the company, including restructuring the company and SMI Association of Malaysia. She also sits in the SIRIM attaining the ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 Certification. Technical Group in the Department of Standards Malaysia (DSM) on Social Responsibility Standard Certification After the restructuring exercise, Hah went on to design and is an Exco Committee Member of the Branding and develop their own products. In 1996, Fire Fighter’s Association of Malaysia (BAM).

20 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME logistic man of the year

All for logistiCs A visionary leader, Lee is constantly looking out for new With three decades of experience in freight forwarding and enterprising ways to brand through organic growth industry, it comes as no surprise that Ronald Lee is a and keeps a keen eye on the horizon for new ways to pioneer in the logistics field in the country. Starting off build the Worldgate brand through organic growth and his career in 1985, he worked for a leading Taiwanese alliances with strategic partners. freight forwarding company for seven years. He moved on to a listed transport and logistics company, Transocean As the logistics business is one that is unpredictable, Group, for another eight years. Lee decided then it was Lee does not believe in resting of his laurels of success. time to establish his own company. Instead he finds new ways for his company to move forward in the competitive industry. which include Together with his partner, Danny Chin, he established personalized approach and close communication with its Worldgate Express Service in 2000 – providing the highest customers. level of service in the international air and sea freight forwarding and customs brokerage services. innovAtive AnD forwArD thinKing The Managing Director and Brand Ambassador’s Armed with thorough knowhow of the freight forwarding innovative business practices can be seen in Worldgate’s industry, Lee believed he had a lucky start – thanks to daily setup and its continual improvement in the the opportunity of growing and maturing together with company’s processes and enhancements of system the trade. He has seen his company grow, with the initial compliances he believes in the development of talent in MR RONALD LEE 13 staff to 200 staff and eight offices across Malaysia an inspiring and conducive environment. MANAGING DIRECTOR, WORLDGATE EXPRESS SERVICES including Penang, Port Klang, KLIA, Johor Bahru and Malacca. People are at Worldgate’s success to build his team, every staff has a role in shaping the brand. This is seen as the Originally focusing on the customs and delivery aspects company’s philosophy of employee relations is linked to of shipping, Worldgate Express offers the full spectrum of the ‘Asian Culture of Trust’, relationships being the key logistic services including air, sea, non-vessel operating to business success. Thus the company believes in both common carrier (NVOCC), customs brokerage, project, retaining the employees and giving them a chance to trucking and warehousing as well as chartering of develop for themselves and the brand. aircrafts and vessels from strategically located offices in Malaysia. Lee understands that to be successful in today’s global marketplace, the company needs to move along with Today, the award-winning company has become a one- the changing trends in the logistic industry. It needs stop logistics centre – with staff experienced in using to develop logistics and supply chain management organic and practical methods to maximize operations strategies and solutions that capitalize on new and logistics solutions. Leading the management team, technology available and be well-prepared for the future. Lee is focusing his efforts to ensure the company becomes a full-fledged logistics player in the region in the near Aspiring to be the Leading Supply Chain Provider in future. the ASEAN Region’, the opening of the global markets through trade and service liberation will see that the refining thAt Defining eDge in the inDustry ASEAN economic integration has greater potential of Through its business philosophy of ‘professionalism making this vision come true. The company’s future with sincerity’, Worldgate Express has aspirations to plans are to tap on the ASEAN market through smart find success through smart partnerships. Lee, via the partnerships and global network of agents. company’s operations, aims to provide an efficient and affordable logistics solutions that goes beyond exceptional customer service at the lowest total cost. Mr Ronald Lee was represented by Mr Danny Chin during the awards dinner. 22 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME property man of the year

PAssion for ProPerty DeveloPment growth in the industry. For Dato’ Dr. Eng, Orando is all Dato’ Dr. Eng Wei Chun started out in the professional out to be a responsible property development company world, working in his family owned building supplies that contributes to Malaysia’s development. business, whilst studying quantity surveying at the young age of 22. Armed with the skills gained on the After carving a name in the Malaysian property industry, job and his knowledge of quantity surveying, he started Dato’ Dr. Eng has had his share of glamour. However, a construction business at age 28. Dato’ Eng eventually he remains a simple man with simple desires. Among sold the company to a public listed company. The profits his interests include the historical tradition of preparing, of the sale led to the incorporation of Orando Holdings serving and enjoying Chinese Tea. This unique hobby Sdn. Bhd. in 2002, and its inaugural development – four is one that takes time, an eye for detail and patience – semi-detached homes in Old Klang Road’s Taman Yarl. three qualities that he practices in his own work days – which makes it possible for him to take pride in his He wanted to become a developer as it offered him the accomplishments. ability to handle everything from A to Z – from making decisions on land purchases – to seeing the smiles on his As Managing Director, Dato’ Dr. Eng leads the company’s customers’ faces during the handing over of keys. development by setting firm and clear strategies for developing projects. For him, every project needs to fulfill Often thought of as the underdog, Dato’ Dr. Eng has had basic requirements of modern housing properties – such his fair share of success as an entrepreneur – thanks to as quality, elegance and potential appreciation; not to YBHG DATO’ DR ENG WEI CHUN having a clear vision of his wants and being motivated mention being affordable and supported by good service. MANAGING DIRECTOR & FOUNDER, ORANDO HOLDINGS and headfast in making his goals come true. The Founder of Orando Holdings always knew he wanted to ‘build reCognition through gooD leADershiP homes with Swiss-watch precision’ – yet making sure the His enterprising leadership is resulted in Orando’s homes were affordable for everyday Malaysians. achievements in the property industry and it being instrumental in determining the landscape of Malaysia’s A true salesman at heart, Dato’ Dr. Eng listens to his property market. Among the company’s achievements customers’ wants and needs before making decisions. include being awarded the Asia Pacific Property Awards The customer-centric strategy continues to be one for ‘The Best Residential High rise Development in of the major contributing reasons to the company’s Malaysia’. accomplishments since establishment. For Dato’ Dr. Eng, it is all about going the extra mile to keep his clients Dato’ Dr. Eng’s caring philosophy is seen in the way he happy. continues to find new and innovative ways to provide Malaysians with reasonably priced property, without A DeveloPer with heArt compromising on quality and design – despite the rising In his 15 years in the competitive Malaysian property cost of building materials, labour and cost of living in the industry, Dato’ Dr. Eng’s portfolio and business nation. philosophy have gotten the attention of many customers, competitors and industry leaders alike. Armed with Thanks to the unique far-sighted ideology practiced by the reputation of being the developer who ‘builds with the company – from project planning and execution to heart’, Malaysian property buyers realize that with the marketing and facilities management – Malaysians are Orando stamp, they are assured of premium quality, happy to invest in Orando’s ‘masterpieces’. value-for-money, and artistically created homes. A generous man, the Managing Director of Orando Orando’s competitors, however, have the belief that Dato’ Holdings has provided numerous donations to various Dr. Eng is all about having a ‘healthy and sustainable’ organizations and charities.

24 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME healthcare man of the year

remArKAble Pioneer in A novel fielD The clinic was successful because of Datuk Dr. Lim’s The ever youthful Datuk Dr. Lim Heng Huat obtained extensive network of industrial and governmental his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from University contracts, which provided the essential corporate Malaya in 1975. He then left the country to pursue a panels. It was also based on the Founder’s track record of postgraduate course in Industrial Medicine and Corporate Professional Integrity, Reliability and Service Excellence Health at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, which was built over the years. He worked alongside his UK. He was among the few Malaysian pioneers in the personal philosophy: “To be honest and sincere is not then new field of Medicine – as he chose to turn his back enough; one must also be seen to be honest and sincere!” on the traditional world of being a physician, surgeon or With the first clinic successful, Datuk Dr. Lim set off on obstetrician. another adventure – to expand the business. Realizing that since clinic outlets have a limit on patient load and After graduating and completing a research fellowship revenue, the best business alternative to achieve growth stint at Bristol University, he returned to Malaysia, where was to establish a chain and network of similar clinics; he joined University Malaya as a lecturer. In the forefront with the same branding and standard of quality service of the new medical discipline at that time, Datuk Dr. at affordable prices. Understanding the importance of Lim provided consultancy to many governmental manpower management, he believed that the doctors departments such as the Department of Occupational should be made partners in the branches. Safety and Health, SOCSO and the Department of Environment; professional organizations, including the AsPirAtions thAt trAnsCenD meDiCine Malaysian Society of Industrial Safety and the Malaysian Mediviron’s philosophy is to encourage doctors from all YBHG DATUK DR LIM HENG HUAT Industrial Nurses Association, as well as major industrial ethnic groups to be partners and enable Bumiputras, FOUNDER & PHYSICIAN, KLINIK MEDIVIRON corporations. Chinese and Indians to be entrepreneurs in their own right. The 150 outlets across the country employ nearly Over the years, Datuk Dr. Lim organically built a broad 1000 doctors and staff. network encompassing various circles. Besides that, Datuk Dr. Lim has worked on several heAlthCAre entrePreneur extrAorDinAire special projects for the government – including being a In 1984, Datuk Dr. Lim felt it was the right time to venture Consultant on the Research Group on Lung Diseases in out on his own. Mediviron, (derived from ‘Medical’ and Rice Mill Workers for the National Rice Board, Malaysia, ‘Environment’) was established to offer comprehensive Consultant on the Hearing Conservation Programme in occupational health and safety consultancy services. The the Industries, Factories and Machinery Department and first of its kind, Mediviron was given the seal of approval Medical Advisor on Factories and Machinery (Asbestos) by the Malaysian government to conduct occupational Regulations for the Ministry of Labour. Datuk Dr. Lim also hygiene monitoring for airborne lead and medical represented the Malaysian Employers Federation at the surveillance under the Factories and Machinery (Lead) International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Regulations 1984. Within a year, the company provided Health Organization (WHO) Conventions in 1986 and services to factories and workshops in 11 states across 1989. the country. He is professionally affiliated as a Member of the Heeding the demand for further clinical services, Datuk International Commission on Occupational Health, Dr. Lim opened the first Mediviron Clinic at SEA Park, the Committee on Education, the Asian Association of Petaling Jaya, in 1985. At this time, he had insufficient Occupational Health, as well as the British Medical funds and took a loan for RM100,000 from Metroplex Association, London. Credit. Providing basic healthcare, medical surveillance & screening programmes, mobile audiometry and Datuk Dr. Lim hopes his team’s efforts will continue to spirometry, the clinic soared to success. be a source of inspiration for all aspiring entrepreneurs in Malaysia.

26 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME education man of the year

PlAnting the seeDs of literACy BAC started with its first campus in Brickfields. With A prominent entrepreneur and educationist, Raja increasing intake of students, Raja Singham expanded Singham is a founding member of a range of companies the college to its new campus in Petaling Jaya in 2013. specialising in education, corporate training, advertising, The RM110 million new campus not only provides publications, event management and IT development; students with a better learning environment but is a most notable of which is Brickfields Asia College, the testimony of BAC’s leadership in Malaysia’s private Nation’s No.1 law school. education industry.

Established in 1991, with a vision to provide quality CommitteD to the Community education to all Malaysians with an emphasis on law, Raja Singham is also a philanthropist who believes that Brickfields Asia College (BAC) has established itself as the education should be accessible to all and that it should nation’s No. 1 Law School, capturing a market share of be administered to serve the wider community. In line 70 percent in the private education market and working with his vision of “changing and improving lives via with 30 British Universities and for Law, 16 universities. education”, he has been instrumental in developing BAC’s students have swept over 400 World and National sustainable educational programmes such as EduNation; Top Students, Book Prize Winners, 1st Class and 2nd a web-based platform that provides free tuition for Uppers at pre-university, university and post graduate secondary school children in Malaysia. levels over the past three years. He sits on the council of various charitable bodies and MR RAJA SINGHAM Ever optimistic and constructive in his approach to life, assists in creating sustainable ways of running these MANAGING DIRECTOR, BRICKFIELDS ASIA COLLEGE Raja Singham is proud that BAC has revolutionized the organisations. His philosophy is that charitable bodies experience of learning that meets market needs and cannot be forever asking for donations, hence they need one that is holistic in character building as well. Through to run activities to raise the needed amount. the years, BAC has played an important role in imparting knowledge and shaping the minds of students and future Raja Singham is a council member on the governing board leaders of Malaysia. for the Society for the Severely Mentally Handicapped, Selangor & Federal Territory. In collaboration with An educationist at heart, he has been teaching for the TECH Outreach Malaysia, he has conducted several past 25 years and finds much joy in it.His mission is to entrepreneurship workshops for single mothers that produce quality graduates that will make a difference allow them to be eligible for jump-start interest-free loans to Malaysia and the world through the education and for their individual business ventures. Through BAC’s processes that they go through at BAC. CSR initiative, BAC Gives Back, it has worked with the Malaysian Lysosomal Diseases Association, the United An enlightening Journey of growth Nations Malaysia Country Team in addition to various Raja Singham views learning as a lifelong journey. He orphanages and homes to provide basic necessities. reads over 80 books a year, books that are out of the realm of education. The knowledge gained from reading For his leadership in building BAC to be the leading brand has given him a different perspective to run BAC and in legal education, Raja SIngham has received numerous got him involved in other businesses such as running an awards and accolades, namely The BrandLaureate SME advertising firm, interior design and IT companies. BAC is Brand Leadership Award and BAC received the Global the first education institution to advertise on the English Leadership Award for Excellence in the Private Education Premier League and this has given the brand tremendous Sector in 2015. publicity and created strong awareness amongst would be students interested in Law.

28 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME f&b man of the year

reinventing the brAnD SUBWAY® has grown tremendously and now has a brand Ybhg Dato’ Vincent Choo is best known for transforming presence remembered by many Malaysians. Its made-to- the business landscape of SUBWAY® Malaysia - together order healthy sandwiches have become part and parcel with his wife and partner Datin Cynthia Cheong. However, of everyday life for health enthusiasts and office goers things were not smooth sailing for the couple in the first alike. few years. The driving force of the brand, Dato’ Choo believes in The healthy sandwich chain with origins from the US achieving excellence and delivering the best to the was first opened in Malaysia in 1999, with its flagship customers and organisation. Although he has faced many store situated at Ampang Point. In the next two years, challenges over the years, he has demonstrated strength the brand grew significantly, with 11 stores that catered and ability to overcome these problems. His enterprising to health conscious Malaysians. However, the growth and innovative attitude has earned admiration by many, was short-lived as by 2002, SUBWAY® was back to serving entrepreneurs and citizens alike. customers only from the first outlet. While operating closely to the business model set by the This was when Dato’ Choo and Datin Cheong started on franchise, Dato Choo continues to develop the brand by an exciting journey. Appointed SUBWAY® Development adopting an innovative and entrepreneurial approach Agents in 2004, the two had a strong belief in the business with new product flowing launches in the course of model. Coupled with the strong desire to succeed, they the year. SUBWAY® also maintains close relationships YBHG DATO’ VINCENT CHOO rebuilt the brand from scratch. It was a challenging and with the submarine sandwich-loving customers through MANAGING DIRECTOR URBAN IDEAS tumultuous time for Dato’ Vincent and yet with the various platforms such as Facebook, TellSUBWAY® and support of his wife, he persisted with the operations of its standard POS System worldwide. the franchise. Their passion and commitment to make SUBWAY® find its footing in the F&B industry in the The inspiring leader with visionary aspirations continues country succeeded and the franchise once again rose to to be a positive force in the food and beverage industry. greater heights in 2008. On the quest to make the SUBWAY® brand accessible to all Malaysians, Dato’ Choo has goals to have more than The enterprising couple steered the franchise together 250 SUBWAY® outlets by the end of 2017. with the North and South team and successfully re- created the brand to become the market leader in the suCCess fACtor Malaysia, with 180 plus restaurants, with more than 140 SUBWAY®’s success has won the brand numerous awards outlets in Klang Valley alone. and accolades in Malaysia; namely The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards for numerous years and in SUBWAY® first started in 1965 by Fred Deluca is the various categories including The BrandLaureate SMEs world’s number one Quick Service Restaurant that offers Signature Awards 2012 and The BrandLaureate Master customers value and service through fresh, delicious, Awards 2013. made to order sandwiches. Dato Choo ensures this brand promise is extended in the operations in Malaysia to fulfil For their commitment and passion to the franchise in the the healthy diet fans here. country, Dato’ Choo and Datin Cheong were awarded by SUBWAY® Worldwide as the Development Agent of the rising leAPs AnD bounDs year in 2008,2010 and 2012. The recognisition is a well- Datuk Choo is an exemplary and visionary leader in deserved accomplishment for Dato Choo, who live and the countrys F&B industry. Under his management, breathe the brand.

30 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME neutraceutical leader of the year

A nAturAl leADer The young entrepreneur has authored more than nine Born in Kuching, Dr Jessie Chung is an inspirational books, including the Jessie’s Diary series, some of which individual with a colourful life. A pioneer of natural have been translated into English and Malay, and health supplements and organic food, Natural Health medical books entitled Stay Away from Cancer and Stay Farm (NHF), she has led the company to great heights, Away from Diseases. She has written medical related establishing presence in Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, articles for New York’s Healthy Lifestyle, Singapore’s The Philippines, China and the US. Health Journal, Malaysia’s prominent news magazines — City Magazine and I Trends, the Chinese press Kwong Established in 1999, Jessie started the company with Wah Yit Poh, and the International Times. the vision to help people across the globe regain health by providing professional nutritional consultation and Musically inclined since young, in her secondary solutions based on natural therapies. Since then she has school days Jessie was chosen to sing at the National successfully diversified the business and is now actively Day celebration. At the age of 14, she represented her involved in Franchise & Retail, Manufacturing, Tertiary school singing solo on the television programme Musika. Education, Naturopathic Centre, Organic Farming, She also wrote her first song Just for You in the same Organic Restaurant, Biotechnology R&D, Dental Supplies, year. Knowing how to play the piano, organ, guitar Wushu, Entertainment, Renovation and Yacht Brokerage. and accordion, the doctor has released eight albums including Home, Loving You, Message of Love from the Jessie has an extensive list of professional qualifications. Moon, Love in You, I Just Fall in Love Again and Tearless She was confered the Doctor of Medicine (Clinical Sky. DR JESSIE CHUNG Integrative Chinese & Western Medicine – Oncology) from MANAGING DIRECTOR, NATURAL HEALTH FARM the Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, China A DoCtor with A big heArt PRC. The founder of NHF also has a BSc in Acupuncture Appointed the Vice President of Malaysia Anti-Cancer & Oriental Medicine, BSc in Homeopathy, Certified Association (MACA), Dr Jessie is also involved in many Nutritional Consultant, Certified Naturopathic Physician philanthropy causes. At 17, she left Kuching to pursue by American Naturopathic Medical Certification Board her studies in Canada. Being far away from her family, (ANMCB) the solitary moments saw her symphatising with orphans and decided to help them – a dream she continues to As an industry leader, Dr Jessie believes in achieving fulfil as she raises funds for them from the sale of her excellence and delivering the best to her customers. albums. Her enterprising and innovative spirit, commitment and passion to the art of branding is admired by many. Armed with a passion in boating, she now also tries a hand in yacht sales and brokerage with Langkawi Boat A stAr with tAlent Sales & Services (LBSS). A multi-talented personality, Jessie is also a Wushu practitioner, author, singer, actress, entrepreneur, and With a string of achievements under her belt, it is not author, having a presence across many industries such as surprising that her accomplishments also include the healthcare, business, lifestyle and entertainment. sports arena, as she achieved the 5th Duan of Chinese Wushu Duanwei, becoming an associate member of the Since young, she has been active in the drama scene Guangzhou Wushu Academy. She has won several gold and was chosen by her school to be the lead in the medals in her participation in international competitions. drama ‘Shooting With The Stars’. In 2012, she took her first steps into the international entertainment scene, Personally, Jessie got married to Joshua Beh at the starring in the Chinese production film Faces. The multi- Riverside Majestic Hotel in Kuching on November 2005. talented personality has been seen in several local and international movies including Unchanging Love and Kungfu Taboo.

32 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME brand leader of the year

floor sPeCiAlist extrAorDinAire indeed paid off and business grew for Inovar. The brand Jason Tan knows the ins and outs of laminated flooring. now has about a 60 per cent market share in Malaysia. Over the years in the business, the Executive Director of Inovar Resources acquired the knowledge and skill With branding playing a key role in the company’s of choosing the right flooring to reflect a customer’s success, Tan goes all-out to ensure Malaysian buyers lifestyle, characteristics of their home, and a pleasant know the difference between a Malaysian laminate floor environment in the office. and imported brands, especially – from China.

Starting out with Bergo Trend in 1996, Tan ventured into The differentiation is vital in order to avoid being the flooring business, offering a variety of solutions – classified together in the industry, since laminate from carpet, vinyl to artificial turf. The business portfolio floorings generally have the same look, but possess changed after he discovered laminate flooring during one varying lifespan. of his trips to Europe. Armed with the belief that there is potential for laminated flooring in Malaysia, he started A firm believer in brAnDing beyonD importing them from Germany for small projects in the For Tan and Inovar, the key to staying in business today country in 1998. During that time, one of his biggest lies in the quality of the laminate flooring. Although challenges was the competition from more established laminated floorings from China are much cheaper, the and bigger players in the market. manufacturers neither have the skill nor technology to produce a floor that can sustain Malaysia’s demanding Tan was given the opportunity to sell Stalheim products weather conditions. The environmentally conscious MR. JASON TAN locally – and he took it up. He made a move into supplying, company uses East-Malaysian forest wood for its flooring EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, INOVAR RESOURCES distributing and providing installation services to the while Chinese manufacturers use softwood material – higher end market. making it less durable.

In early 2004, Bergo Trend achieved an important Tan believes that customers today are knowledgeable milestone when it secured its first landed property project and have high expectations from the products they at Taman Subang Murni. The company’s reputation grew; purchase. With that, they also expect good service, after and with that, so did the size of its property projects. Tan making the purchase. He ensures that the company goes started working closely with big time developers such as all out to satisfy the customers’ needs by delivering high Mah Sing, Sime Darby, UOA and TTDI. levels of customer service – which is their advantage over other floor laminating companies in the country. From 2005, through the Galliant and Smartfloor brands, Bergo Trend achieved record growth. During that time, Leading the company with innovative practices and leading brands like Inovar and Pergo were slowing a forward looking vision, Tan ensures the company down for various reasons. Inovar, the household brand collaborates with other partners in the market through of Stalheim at that time, was experiencing a decline in Hard Work, Dedication and Diligence. the market. With the opportunity to merge both product lines to avoid duplication and eliminate resources History attests that the progressive brand is indeed a wastage, the company made the decision to rebuild the player in the regional architectural industry. Today the Inovar brand and drop the Galliant brand – as the former home-grown brand has more than 200 distributors in had a bigger presence in other countries. over 40 countries worldwide. Inovar Floor has made its exquisite presence felt in Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, An intuitive risK tAKer Thailand, India, Vietnam, Indonesia and Cambodia. For Tan, cost effectiveness and efficiency were deciding factors in the company’s portfolio change. The decision

34 the brandlaureate SMES Brand Leadership Awards 2014 SME Brand Personality of the Year

Answering the CAll of PAssion which in turn can be good for Chatime. Loo believes that Bryan Loo Wooi Lip is a young entrepreneur with a fiery without healthy competition, it is impossible to operate desire and an attitude to match it. Born on September a successful bubble tea franchise. Thanks to other bubble 14, 1985, in Perlis, the Managing Director of Chatime tea businesses that have flourished in the country, Loo Malaysia started off his journey in a very different field. has been inspired to make changes to the operations, The 29-year-old graduated with a Bachelor of Science in which included introducing the Chatime Card and the Biotechnology, from Monash University, Australia. partnership with Horlicks.

After returning to Malaysia, he started building up his rewArD, reCognition & resolution experience in the field of medical market research. In His far sightedness has resulted in the Malaysian the two years, Loo realized that his passion did not lie in franchise becoming the world’s fastest growing Chatime the area of biotechnology or research. It was then when country in the world. The lifestyle beverage company he decided to make a leap of faith and resigned from came up tops at the World Branding Awards in London his job – wanting to make a mark in the F&B industry. as Brand of The Year (Tea Category 2014/2015). Chatime Gaining acumen of the business world from his father, Malaysia is currently known as The Largest Pearl Milk Loo started brainstorming on business ideas that could Tea Beverage Chain, as awarded by the Malaysian Book benefit the existing demands of the Malaysian market. of Records (MBR). After four years since the first flagship outlet was established at Pavilion KL shopping mall, After travelling to Taiwan and visiting many franchise Chatime Malaysia now stands at 130 outlets as of January BRYAN LOO WOOI LIP fairs, Loo came across the venture that changed the 2015. MANAGING DIRECTOR LOOB HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. course of his life forever. With the belief that there was a (CHATIME MALAYSIA) void to fill in the tea industry in the country, Loo decided No stranger to receiving recognition for his own efforts, that he wanted to bring in the bubble tea beverage to Loo was recipient of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of Malaysia. His decision saw millions of Malaysians get the Year 2013/2014 Award. He has made appearances in their first taste of bubble tea and loving it! many segments featuring Young Entrepreneurs including Bloomberg, The Star, BFM, August Man Magazine, NTV While the road to starting the franchise was not smooth, 7 Bella Talk Show, and Astro Awani. He was the winner Loo did not think of it as a challenge, as his passion of the 2011 MRCA 8TV Entrepreneur Awards and was Top outweighed the problems that arose in the beginning. 10 Finalist of the JCI Creative Young Entrepreneur Award. His hands-on approach in dealing with marketing and brand development led him to successfully steer the Yet, he still remains down-to-earth about his successes company on to the road of success. and has a vision to make tea the most consumed drink in Malaysia by having a total of 250 outlets by the end of entrePreneurshiP ferrieD by sounD vision 2018. One of his most memorable accomplishments was Loo believes entrepreneurship is not only about being when he opened a Chatime outlet in Kangar in May 2014 one’s own boss and making money, but to have a purpose – making his dream of opening one in his home state a and satisfaction through the business idea. Along with reality. the vision to introduce bubble tea in his home country, he also wanted to cultivate a tea-drinking culture among Besides running Chatime Malaysia, Bryan Loo also Malaysians. manages three other up-and-coming F&B brands in the market, namely – T&CO, Tino’s Pizza and SodaXpress. Loo does not view his competitors in the market as threats, but more like partners in developing the tea industry –

36 SMEs, Take Courage & Be Bold! Your BRAND demands THE BEST! Drive it to be THE BEST amongst THE REST the brandlaureate brand champion for smes Awards ....Dr KKJohan brand champion For SmeS 2014 Sme corporation malaySia

brand champion

ChAmPioning sme’s growth programmes in this country. Initiatives under the SME Corp. Malaysia provides business advisory services SME Corporation Malaysia (SME Corp. Malaysia) is a NSDC include enhanced access to financing; financial and information to SMEs in Malaysia through its One Central Coordinating Agency under the Ministry of restructuring; advisory services, information, training Referral Centre (ORC) and its 11 State Offices nationwide. International Trade and Industry Malaysia that formulates and marketing coordination; and a comprehensive SME SME Corp. Malaysia implements various programmes and overall policies and strategies for Small and Medium database to monitor the progress of SMEs across all initiatives under its own auspices including its annual Enterprises (SMEs) and coordinates the implementation economic sectors. flagship programmes such as the SME Annual Showcase of SME development programmes across all related (SMIDEX), Enterprise 50 (E50) Award and SME Week. Ministries and Agencies. It acts as the central point of In 2007, the NSDC decided to appoint a single dedicated reference for research and data dissemination on SMEs, agency to formulate overall policies and strategies for As the Central Coordinating Agency for the overall SME as well as provides advisory services for SMEs in Malaysia. SMEs and to coordinate programmes across all related development in Malaysia since 2009, SME Corp. Malaysia Ministries and Agencies. SMIDEC was tasked to assume coordinates, streamlines, monitors and evaluates The genesis of SME Corp. Malaysia dates back to May the role and the official transformation into Small the progress and effectiveness of SME development 1996, when a specialised agency was established under and Medium Enterprise Corporation Malaysia (SME programmes implemented by 15 Ministries and 65 the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to Corporation Malaysia) commenced on 2 October 2009. Agencies. The information collected from the relevant spur the development of Small and Medium Enterprises Ministries and Agencies is published as an annual report (SMEs) by providing infrastructure facilities, financial growth through emPowerment called the SME Integrated Plan of Action (SMEIPA). assistance, advisory services, market access and other Today, SME Corp. Malaysia is the nation’s premier support programmes. Known as the Small and Medium organisation for the development of progressive SMEs SME Corp. Malaysia is the implementing agency for Industries Development Corporation (SMIDEC), its aim to enhance wealth creation and social well-being of the SME Masterplan (2012-2020) that charts the policy was to develop capable and resilient Malaysian SMEs to the nation. In fulfilling its mission of promoting the direction of SME development until the year 2020. The be competitive in the global market. development of innovative, resilient and globally Masterplan aims to accelerate the growth of SMEs via competitive SMEs through effective coordination and innovation-driven and productivity-led strategies for The establishment of the National SME Development provision of business support, SME Corp. Malaysia Malaysia to achieve a high-income nation status by Council (NSDC) in 2004 was the beginning of another endeavours to empower the critical mass of SMEs with 2020. Apart from that, SME Corp. Malaysia forges close chapter in SME development in Malaysia. As the highest efficient processes, robust business models, access to partnerships with industry associations and strategic policy-making body, its role was to formulate strategies financial resources, smart partnerships, market-entry partners from both the public and private sectors to foster for SME development across all economic sectors; strategies and sustainable growth solutions, through and strengthen sector and industry-specific cooperation coordinate the tasks of related Ministries and Agencies; various platforms and programmes for SME development. and collaboration to further support and promote the encourage partnership with the private sector; and ensure development of SMEs in Malaysia. effective implementation of the overall SME development

40 SMEs are indispensable component in the economic cornerstone of this nation and beyond. Brand on to achieve your goals and make the brandlaureate the nation proud! smes Corporate Branding Awards ....Dr KKJohan beStbrandS in ServiceS - SyStem integrationS & maintenance

corporate branding

geAreD for the best viA An innovAtive vision achievement activities by the government and private its clients. AMCOP’s commitment is not only focused on Founded in 1997, AMP Corporation (M) Sdn. Bhd., sectors locally and internationally, AMCOP has received delivery but also to uphold the highest level of integrity or better known as AMCOP, was created to cater the a number of awards and accolades, including being the and professionalism with its clients. maintenance of the Malaysian Sea Surveillance System only Malaysian company to be shortlisted as a finalist for (MSSS) – a radar surveillance system which helps detect the ATC Global Excellence Awards 2013 in Amsterdam, more thAn Just mAintenAnCe and curb illegal activities on the high seas. With its Vision Netherlands. In addition, AMCOP has also achieved the One of the strongest points that AMCOP has is that it of being the leading system-integrating company in the ISO 9001:2008 UKAS Quality Standard which it believes has placed itself in a favourable position with its smart country, AMCOP, over the years, has geared the company will take it a step higher in realizing its Corporate Vision – partnership with the Government of Malaysia. When and its employees to provide innovative, reliable and together with the country’s Vision 2020. AMCOP first took over to do maintenance work on MSSS, easy-to-maintain products tailored to transform the needs one component or radar site was missing: the One and requirements of its clients cost effectively, yet with strong AlliAnCes Fathom Bank (OFB) Radar System. AMCOP was contracted quality. AMCOP prefers sourcing for the best available solutions a project to complete the remaining work of the OFB by from different suppliers rather than attaching itself to one. the Prime Minister’s Department in the year 2000. The Today, as a specialist in the field, this local Bumiputera Being in the market long enough has allowed the brand project was a great success and completed well before company has the capability to design, manufacture, to gather resources from various manufacturers, solution the due date and within the requirements of the Prime assemble, test and install advanced complex electronic providers, dealers and human capital – heightening its Minister’s Department. Due to its undeniable outstanding systems to achieve the best for its clients. With an reputation and elevated its market share within this performance and services on top of its timely delivery, authorized capital of RM25 million, recognition as leader niche and specialized industry. This, coupled with strong AMCOP has been entrusted with several governmental and holder of the prestigious title as the first and only alliances and firm partnership it has built, has enabled projects which foresee the increase in revenue of the company in Malaysia to run a Research and Development AMCOP to integrate products and solutions to meet the company in years to come. Centre specializing in radio frequency technologies, unique needs of its clients and provide scalability and AMCOP has expanded; and now provides services in affordability for future upgrades and maintenance. With its design and manufacturing capabilities, AMCOP telecommunication, computing and surveillance projects will have a positive effect on a number of Malaysian for the maritime, aviation, defence and security industries. This Bloomberg-registered company has positioned itself chains. The 100 per cent Malaysian-made radar will mark to be able to absorb and implement systems with the another step towards our country’s self-sustainability At AMCOP, it is its vision and drive that define the paths latest advances in technology. All its research, design and as it is more cost-effective than imported comparative and footprints of its many successes. AMCOP has been implementation expertise are in-house. With its own pool products; without the sacrifice of technology and well known in the defence industry in Malaysia for almost of expertise and technical savvy individuals, solutions operational capabilities. 18 years. Through its participation in recognition and have been and will continue to be delivered on time to

44 beStbrandS in manuFacturing – plaStic moulding injection

corporate branding

the one stoP PlAstiCs ComPonent mAnufACturer QuAlity – PillAr of strength builDing A strong internAl brAnD Azman Hamzah Plastik (AHP) was set up in 1989 with a To ensure precision quality, AHP’s standard operating AHP’s management and staff consist of skilled technicians mission to become a market leader in precision plastic procedures include checking on every plastic component and engineers that have a combined extensive experience injection molding and components for the automotive and thoroughly at every stage of the process and finally by of many years in the field of manufacturing plastic electrical industries. Its manufacturing facilities located the quality control unit before the products are delivered components. Human capital is an asset investment for in Shah Alam, Selangor and Tanjung Malim in Perak is to customers. AHP’s strong quality control allows it to AHP and it works toward ensuring that every employee is equipped with the latest state of the art technology and comply with customer specifications and requirements always well equipped with the latest skills. machineries, weighing from 60 tons up to 2500 tons. and this has generated repeat orders, enhancing the sustainability of the brand. Training and development programmes are organized AHP’s factories operates on three shifts and has and these act a booster for employees to upgrade and technology for ultrasonic and vibration welding, hot AHP’s research and development has led to the creation upskill themselves. In addition, AHP motivates its staff to plate, assemblies, tooling fabrication and of course of its own technology and development of new products be in high spirit and perform with a borderless will and injection molding process. With this technology and and innovative engineering solutions that increases the positive attitude to deliver on its brand promise. machinery, AHP produces more than 400 types of interior yield and output quality of the products. Its factories and exterior plastic components, including engine plastic possess technology for ultrasonic and vibration welding, With its core values for team work, reliability and respect, component and engine compartment areas. hot plate, assemblies, tooling fabrication and injection AHP has been able to build a strong internal brand, which molding process. is vital for the success of any brands. The management AHP’s mission is to be a one stop plastic and components walks the talk, is approachable and encourages strong manufacturer, with mould repairs and component AHP’s focus on quality has been the backbone of the inter-relationship amongst all employees to build strong assembly as part of its services offered. With its wide range brand’s success. It received the ISO 9002 (in 1996), QS bonds that will bind the organisation and push the success of products and services, AHP has become a preferred 9000 (in 2001) and TS 16949 (in 2004) from SIRIM as of AHP further. choice for many automotive brands and its clients include a recognition of its quality system and compliance to Proton, Perodua, , Daihatsu, Isuzu, Modenas, Hicom, industry standards. Sapura, KYB, Toyota Auto Parts, UMW Auto Parts amongst others. AHP is a Tier 1 vendor to Proton with its supply of complete model parts.

46 beStbrandS in engineering - deSign & Fabrication - vehicle body workS

corporate branding

CONTINENTAL TOP PRODUCTS & ENGINEERING

builDing beyonD through Prime serviCe With 35 years of experience in the market, CTPE has well of Pahang. Later on, CTPE was awarded with contracts Continental Top Products & Engineering Sdn. Bhd. (CTPE) positioned itself with its capabilities to meet the demands to install complete accessory ranges for ambulances is a family owned business located in Seri Kembangan, of its many clients who are mainly from governmental under the Ministry of Health, City Hall of Kuala Lumpur, Selangor. It was incorporated in 1980 as a commercial agencies and private corporations. It is purchasing new St. John’s Ambulance and the Red Crescent Society of vehicle body builder and started off its operation by machinery to increase its production capacity with the Malaysia. Perhaps this was the turning point which fabricating and constructing light lorry pick-up bodies for objective of keeping up with the expected demands of propelled CTPE to the forefront, paving a way for instant Daihatsu, Datsun, Mazda and Toyota as well as installing its ongoing and new businesses. The brand’s excellent recognition within the industry. complete emergency equipment on firefighting trucks for rapport with its clients through its loyalty and advocacy the Fire & Rescue Department of Malaysia. had further strengthened its position making it capable to CTPE’s competitive nature has taken it a step forward by penetrate the market share with its existence. teaming up with engineers who have designed and worked Today, this ISO 9001:2008 certified company has fully in the advanced composite industry for many years, grown into a ‘Class A’ licensed engineering and servicing striving to be the best viA exCellent & CommitteD developing products such as compressed rotor wheels, organization that specializes in the design, fabrication worKmAnshiP cars and aircrafts. Its target is to be a manufacturer of and assembly of light and heavy transport vehicles CTPE is streamlining its various day-to-day processes, advanced composite products to service this niche market body works for a variety of industries. Its work includes operations and is actively engaging more into a computerized within the ASEAN region and to reap the benefit from the distributing and manufacturing special purposes vehicles, system to manage its financial and production operations to region’s economic expansion and industrial needs. ambulances and mobile command centres. make way for more improvement. At the moment, it has more than 50 highly skilled craftsmen as employees. Its dedicated room for exPAnsion CTPE is the product of a formula merging time-tested engineers and technicians are well trained – with decades The goals and objectives of CTPE are to continuously vehicle body building methods, innovative engineering, of past experience from their involvement in this industry. provide first-class engineering, fabrication and installation proven materials and components. It is committed to The company strongly believes that the combination of its services to its existing and future clients. CTPE is looking do the job with perfection right from the start – from employees’ strong work ethics and the sense of pride in its to expand its expertise into other commercial vehicle the selection of the highest quality of raw materials brand will ensure its stringent production standards – hence assemblies and strongly believes that its customer base and components right up to custom designing each achieving the highest level of quality when servicing its will increase as it expands its wings into other areas of vehicle to maximize its dependability, functionality and clients. transportation vehicle body conversions such as that of serviceability. CTPE knows that its services represents its public transport buses, tourist coaches, trains, and, the brand’s image and takes great effort in ensuring the best Among its more prominent projects, was the appointment assembly and fabrication of armored vehicles for security for its clients. to work on horse floats for the Perak, Penang and Selangor solution providers. Turf Clubs as well as for His Royal Highness, the Sultan

48 beStbrandS in induStrial - ScaFFolding SyStemS

corporate branding

the suPPlier of ChoiCe Dscaff currently holds three pending patents and seven to develop and maintain its technical expertise and as The Dscaff Group of Companies is an engineering company trademarks. Along with its manufacturing and R&D such, it implements and strictly adheres to live up to its that specializes in the supplies of engineered scaffolding facilities in Malaysia, Dscaff also provides scaffolding accreditation of the ISO 9001:2008 and TS 29001. In fact, and construction equipment solutions to the Energy and materials for hire via its subsidiary known as Dscaff Capital Dscaff became the first scaffolding company in Malaysia Industrial service sectors globally. which operates predominantly within the Oil & Gas to receive the ISO TS 29001 – which is a company level industry and industrial sectors with major infrastructure certification based on technical specification. The brand operates throughout Malaysia, Southeast Asia, projects. It also stocks a huge range of scaffolding China and Australia with representation and distributors equipment and accessories that are readily available Besides its strict approach with its ISO practices, Dscaff located around the world mainly in the United Kingdom, for quick delivery. Being strategically located in Kuala also spends time training its employees – enabling them United States of America, Latin America and the Lumpur with its factory and warehouse near Port Klang, to acquire greater knowledge of its products. The brand subcontinents. Dscaff is able to deliver goods quickly and efficiently. takes care to trail erect its system by continuously carrying out programs that would not only benefit its employees Gaining the recognition as ‘supplier of choice’ to many This award-winning company strives to provide the but also its processes. industries, Dscaff has the capability to provide materials highest quality of scaffolding products and constantly by way of many different commercial options that looks for innovation that could offer better technology It continuously looks for ways to enlarge its territory and transcends it from the position of a supplier into a project and value to its clients. By introducing the SBS Plastic make its name known. Dscaff uses the Internet and social manager for its clients. Some of the industries that Formwork System and DXS Alloy Bridging, it has greatly media network vastly as part of its initiative to promote Dscaff currently operates in are Petro-chemical, Facilities broadened its production range and global reach. The itself. Recently, the brand participated in an International Maintenance, Oil & Gas, Construction, Events & Staging, added advantage is that both these product choices utilize Building and Construction Show Exhibition held at the Mining & Resources, Civil Infrastructure and Shipbuilding. its heavy duty modular scaffolding system, acknowledged Dubai World Trade Centre and also was the first company as the highest capacity modular system in the market. in Malaysia to organize the inaugural National Scaffold reAChing beyonD bounDAries Competition with cash prizes. Dscaff is a registered national supplier with the Concrete A PAssion to win: QuAlity ControlleD mAnufACturing Foundations Association of North America (CFA) whose Headed by a dedicated team of professional individuals and Dscaff was established in 2013, and though it is only two Mission is to support the cast-in-place contractor as the experienced multinational personnel, Dscaff embraces years old, its production capacity is one of the largest in voice recognized authority for the residential concrete the ‘no compromise’ approach concerning its products the world. Clients can be rest assured that regardless of industry. Dscaff is involved in supplies to internationally manufacturing. The brand understands the benefits and how small or big their order may be, Dscaff will be able to well-known projects such as the Barangaroo, Gorgon and value of money it would bring to have well-designed deliver it with excellence! Ichthys in Australia. All of its products have been designed products manufactured from quality material under the to comply fully with the British, European, Australian and guidance of an accredited manufacturing process. Dscaff New Zealand standards of scaffolding. believes that a responsive Quality Management with adequately documented procedures is the only foundation 50 beStbrandS in retail - communication deviceS

corporate branding

retAiling beyonD wAlls gADgets within the buDget informed. DirectD always has the best deals in town DirectD Retail & Wholesale Sdn. Bhd. is a leading At DirectD, customer satisfaction has always been the top with stocks readily available at all times. Additionally, mobile phone player in Malaysia. It is predominantly priority. The brand realizes that customer satisfaction is in-house shop promotions or sales fairs frequently occur engaged in the trading, retailing and distribution of paramount to any success and it ensures its employees as to benefit its customers. For customers’ convenience, ‘smartphones’, tablets, smart watches, accessories and provide excellent services to all its customers. The DirectD is open 365 days a year. The opening hours are 11 telecommunication solutions for various brands. satisfaction of their customers is indeed at the core AM to 11.30 PM (Subang branch) and 9AM – 9PM (Mega of DirectD and thus continuous improvement is their Store PJ branch). Established in 2011, DirectD was created to strengthen business philosophy. the retail arm and to operate as a subsidiary of the parent exPAnsion to internAtionAl shores company, Extrovest Communications Sdn. Bhd., which On top of that, DirectD focuses on establishing its brand DirectD is also the exclusive official retail partner for was founded in 2000. Today, DirectD has developed a name – which will enhance its reputation and gain the ChatSim, the world’s first subscriber identity module. strong foothold in the retail industry of mobile devices trust of its customers. The key to its branding strategy is to This is a SIM that enables the use of instant messaging and related accessories through its brick and mortar not just retain its existing customers but also to gain new in 150 countries without any Wi-Fi or roaming charges. outlets and online store. This is evident by the winning of ones by providing quality products and tip-top services. After the successful registration of its brand’s name top dealer and retailer awards for all major brands such The brand strives to deliver the best by bringing in the with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia as Asus, Blackberry, HTC, Huawei, Lenovo, Motorola, latest and best priced gadgets to the shores of Malaysia. (MyIPO), DirectD is now expanding its branding on a more Nokia, Oppo and Sony. Besides its extensive range of mobile devices and global scale with the name DirectD Asia. This is solidified accessories, DirectD also provides comprehensive after- by DirectD becoming the sole distributor of ChatSim in With the recent opening of its sixth outlet in April 2015, sales services such as repair and maintenance work, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. this well-known telecommunications and mobile phone credit installment for easy payment and operator service giant has reshaped and redefined the entire shopping counters. There is no doubt that DirectD would be the first name that experience for mobile devices. DirectD Gadget Mega Store crops up to one’s mind when shopping for mobile phones. is located in Petaling Jaya, strategically alongside the Its secure online store offers a safe and reliable delivery However, the brand aims to expand its business to more Federal Highway – the busiest highway in Klang Valley service with good tracking systems; customers now have than what it is currently doing. As customer satisfaction with estimate of more than 1 million vehicles passing the freedom to shop online with the full assurance that and servicing is part of DirectD’s values, it plans to jump by daily. Furthermore, it is also known as the largest the gadget purchased would be delivered promptly. into different business sectors specifically in the service phone shop in Malaysia with an 18,000 square feet and sector. With its experiences, skilled workers and passion, two-storey building. With the convenience of customers Much emphasis is placed on its online advertising and DirectD has hopes for an even brighter future. in mind, this business is well-known for being a one-stop in-shop promotions to build its brand. It ensures that solution and an everything-under-one-roof store. its social network channels are all up-to-date with new products and offers so that customers are kept well 52 beStbrandS in building material - tileS

corporate branding

trAnsforming tiles beyonD the sQuAre shAPe signature i Shape, Designer Collection, Modular Sizes and Feruni Tiling Academy was established, in collaboration Established in 2001, Feruni Ceramiche is one of the leading Feruni Décor Tiles. with CIDB Holdings Sdn. Bhd., to support and provide retailers of premium ceramic and porcelain tile solutions. free sponsorship to the community – especially for school Backed by over 20 years of experience and extensive more thAn Just A brAnD – A worlD-ClAss shoPPing dropouts, unskilled workers and the underprivileged knowledge in the tiling industry, Feruni stands out for its exPerienCe – to gain knowledge and skills in the tiling industry. unique products and designs which transforms tiles from Feruni Retail Stores are designed to offer a lifestyle Furthermore, the Tiling Academy provides training on being just wall and floor coverings into a lifestyle element shopping experience with an artistic and contemporary proper usage of tiles and fitting materials to help educate for any space. ambiance, mix-and-match corner and a bar for rest and up-skill the tiling contractors in the market to meet and relaxation while browsing through the extensive the standard requirements of methodology. It is a five-year Feruni tiles have covered an impressive array of collections. Personalized services are also provided which CSR project which begins in 2015, and upon completion, infrastructures and projects – from private residences to includes one-to-one consultation, interior design software the accredited student with working experience can well-known shopping centres, office buildings and other and 3D drawings – to assist customers in visualizing their contribute and carry on conducting the course. commercial properties nationwide. It incorporates the ideal tile solution. best of design and technology to develop trendsetting Progressively tiling the globe viA brAnDing yet practical designs. Through cutting-edge printing Feruni offers the world’s latest tile trends through its technologies and global inspiration, the brand strives for seven Feruni Retail Stores across Malaysia – each designed Feruni believes that its Retail Store concept will create a good design that pushes the boundary of creative thinking to deliver a world-class user experience via its six key better impact and generate greater sales than the normal – while still maintaining its aesthetic integrity. elements: i Panel tile displays, i Space tile showcase, trading on tiles for export market. In the past five years, Mix & Match corner, i Bar relaxation lounge, One-to-One the brand has been building the pillar for international The brand is a trendsetter that provides high-quality consultation, and i Create 3D rendering service. market, focusing on globalizing itself and bringing its tiles emanating from various accredited plants located Retail Store concept overseas – starting with Indonesia, in Malaysia, China, Italy and Spain which targets the Feruni’s formula of success derives from a happy working Thailand and Singapore. Feruni aims to clone the Retail premium segmentation with its product collections that environment. It places its culture as its brand – a brand Store model and bring it to the international market by are designed for luxury. that places people, passion and purpose at the forefront; end of 2016. a culture that is shaped by the company’s 10 core values As a global company with origins from Malaysia, the brand shared among everyone within its organization. It is The lifestyle brand has also targeted to launch four to five is poised to make its mark in the global market with its these core values in their workforce that results in the new collections as part of its development plan to further Feruni trademark registered in 20 countries. It stays ahead fulfillment of ‘work life integration’ – contributing to its nurture the market’s need so that people will recognize of the curve by constantly seeking product breakthrough success in brand building. Feruni through its Retail Store and products (in addition in terms of design concept and technological innovation to the opening of its new Retail Store in Malacca this with the introduction of innovative products such as its As part of its Mission in transforming the tiling industry, the year).

54 beStbrandS in education (private) - inFormation technology & buSineSS management

corporate branding

worlDwiDe Premier eDuCAtion ProviDer of excellent personal support and development. for the latest research projects and attracts hundreds of Financial Training & Management Services (FTMS) is research papers from more than 30 countries including one of Malaysia’s longest established private institutes FTMS’s focus on professional and entrepreneurial the UK, the US, South Africa, UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, comprising of two divisions – one specializing in Academic development ensures that its students pass their India and China. Selected papers of the conference are and the other in Professional Studies. Founded in 1986, examinations and build strong foundations to succeed published in FTMS’ international journals such as the this college today has 14 campuses in 11 countries in in their careers. This focused approach has resulted in IJISE (for Information System and Engineering), IJABM Asia and Africa – namely Brunei, Cambodia, China, Hong producing students with distinctions at all levels and with (for Accounting and Business Management) and IJEDT Kong, India, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mongolia, Singapore, almost 30 years of excellence in education and training. (for Education and Training). Its academic staff is actively Uganda and Vietnam. FTMS has well over 25,000 graduates through the years involved in research activities and holds 25 publications who themselves are working towards success in their own in credit. Some of its research over the past few years has FTMS’s robust and dynamic structure has helped develop career paths. The management, the academics and the been executed – resulting in few patent applications in and expand its strategic division of Education and institution’s strong student alumni generate the strength process. Training, e-Learning, Management and Human Resource and dynamism that is synonymous with FTMS. Consulting, Publishing, Corporate Outsourcing, e-Business PoiseD to go green AstriDe A luminous vision and Information Technology services. PubliC reCognition through brAnDing Apart from its city centre located campus, FTMS Malaysia FTMS Malaysia has gained immense recognition over the recently opened a new campus at Bukit Jalil, Kuala Well-known for its affiliation with universities years through numerous awards. Its greatest achievement Lumpur, in the emphasis of green technology and a from the United Kingdom, FTMS offers an array of to date would include the highest rating of ‘6 and 5 Stars’ green campus. This well-equipped facility, with added academic programmes from Foundation to Master in the Malaysian Quality Evaluation System for Private investment in the provision of a shuttle transport for level qualifications in Accounting, Business Finance, Colleges (MyQUEST) 2012/2013, certification of its Quality students and staff, is an added advantage to a creating Information Technology, Computing, Marketing, Management System (QMS) ISO 9001:2008 from Global an environment conducive to learning. Management, Engineering, Computer Games Technology GROUP in 2012, and the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) and Hospitality. FTMS’s current student body comprises Malaysia status by the Malaysian Government in 2015. The education brand’s prospective plan is to carry on its of more than 12,000 students around the globe. The year 2014 carved yet another promising path for FTMS Vision to build this success towards the future. It aims to as it walked away with two awards – Malaysia’s Most one day develop its campus into a prominent and respected A good education provider is recognized through its Promising Entrepreneur and CIMANAFMA Best Lecturer of university in Malaysia – on par with other international students; and in FTMS, it is its students that reflect its the Year Award. universities. Its proven track record establishes ample brand– they are the ultimate brand ambassadors. FTMS’s competency to ensure that FTMS will be able to assist ambition is for all its students to excel and achieve their FTMS Malaysia organizes and hosts an annual the Government in achieving the objectives of making full potential in their education. The education brand goes international research conference known as ASCENT (A Malaysia a prominent education centre. to great extents in meeting and supplying all its students’ Scholarly Conference in Emerging Trends in Technology needs during the course of education – a prime reflection and Engineering). The conference serves as a platform 56 beStbrandS in energy - Solar SolutionS

corporate branding

environment-frienDly energy solutions brAnDing its suCCess Adhering to the most stringent safety and power quality Formed in 2003 by the husband-and-wife team of Managing Gading Kencana’s branding exercise has built a consistent requirements, the complex, with its 29,092 units of solar Director, Datuk Ir Guntor Tobeng, and Executive Director, corporate image and values for the company – especially panels fulfilling a system capacity of 8 Megawatts, is Datin Hasnah Awang, Gading Kencana is a Bumiputera- in Quality, Innovation and Reliability. These values are projected to output 11,000 Megawatt hours of clean owned renewable energy services company. incorporated into every aspect of the business – from energy annually. the PV system design and use of quality PV panels and Providing consultancy, design, engineering, procurement, inverters to the development of human capital and a DeveloPing solAr PlAnt mAnAgement construction and monitoring of renewable energy (RE) network of quality sub-contractors in the solar PV industry. Achieving revenue of over RM22 million in 2015, Gading systems, including solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, the Kencana has distinguished itself through its innovative company caters to wide range of clients. One of the The company’s success in branding comes from word-of- qualities. It was the first to innovate its rooftop solar leading players in the industry today, Gading Kencana’s mouth and selected trade and corporate media and trade PV systems, using the ‘A-shape’ of the traditional Malay clients includes those in the commercial sector, public fairs that are targeted specifically at the solar PV industry. house roof, in its bid to enhance cooling effects for sector initiated projects and individual households in buildings in tropical climates. Malaysia and beyond. The company’s most outstanding achievement is no doubt the development of Kompleks Hijau Solar, a 17.17 Prior to this, all rooftop solar PV systems were based The company has a reputation for quality and innovation acre solar farm in the state of Malacca. Thanks to the on designs from Europe and the US which were more as well as a long track record of successful projects, and staff’s inventiveness and persistence through adversity, suited to temperate climates. Gading Kencana’s ‘A-shape’ is involved in various areas of renewable energy and the world’s most resource-efficient solar farm is known as design is used by many local players since then; thus the energy efficiency – including solar farm development, Gading Kencana’s ‘jewel in the crown’. company prides itself in making it possible for the local engineering, procurement, construction, testing and industry to provide greater value-added benefits to the commissioning of solar photovoltaic systems, energy The accomplishment in the solar complex is in the end users in Malaysia. conservation consultancy, electrical works and audio- company achieving a 1 Megawatt per 1.3 acres versus visual and CCTV system works. an average worldwide best of 1 Megawatt per 5 acres With a host of prospective plans, the company’s goals in record. Thus the Kompleks Hijau Solar is, inch-for-inch, the near future includes taking solar farm development With many successes in its portfolio, Gading Kencana the world’s most resource-efficient solar farm! and consultancy into the world arena as well as investing is Malaysia’s only solar PV service provider to have the in a manufacturing plant to produce high-quality solar ISO 9001:2008 and OHSAS 18001:2007 certifications. Although the company was faced with unforeseen cells and panels. The company’s commitment to quality is reflected in its limitations in the site’s title that reduced its total acreage, product and services. Gading Kencana used cutting-edge innovation in systems and technologies that resulted in a successful solution.

58 beStbrandS in ServiceS - logiStic SolutionS

corporate branding

intelligent trAnsPortAtion products and goods. This practice has secured Infinity trusted by many large international companies. With past Infinity Logistics & Transport is an ASEAN asset-based more than a decade of stay in the Blue Ocean market with good track record of its quality and services, Infinity has logistics company that offers innovative and cost effective less competition. been known by many globally as the preferred choice logistics solutions for various types of industries with Flexitank provider. business units. Established in early 2003, Infinity initially The brand has taken several initiative drives towards its started off its business by offering land transportation. branding and these are reflected through the company’s Besides being a profit organization, Infinity also seeks to Mission of providing innovative logistics solutions to become a good logistics provider by contributing back to The ever-evolving brand subsequently ventured into its customers. Its first innovative business deal was the the community and environment. Through collaboration warehousing and freighting services – followed by transporting of gypsum boards from Songkhla, Thailand with industry players or non-governmental organizations, substantial investments in infrastructure and equipment. to Singapore. Prior to Infinity, clients usually transported it has initiated several Corporate Social Responsibility With its own warehouse, fleet of haulage and other the boards by road under a special bonded status and (CSR) programs to impact the community for the specialized equipment, Infinity acquired better control with 1200-kilometre travel distance. Besides the risk of betterment of humankind and Mother Nature. and the ability to customize solutions for customers’ wear and tear, the cost for such a method was very high. specific requirements. Infinity managed to resolve the clients’ supply chain future PlAns to reACh greAter heights issues by providing rail/road alternatives (which it terms In the coming years, Infinity is set to expand its horizons Infinity has gained both local and international Integrated as the ‘landbridge’ service) and with this, gave a huge to greater heights with its future plans, namely, to evolve Logistics Services statuses with the Malaysian Investment cost-saving solution to its clients. from a third-party logistics provider to a truly integrated Development Authority (MIDA), and is currently enjoying logistics solutions company; from a Non Vessel Owning a five-year pioneer status since 2012. The brand has a Infinity was the first to provide ‘land feedering’ services Common Carrier (NVOCC) to a full-fledged shipping growing presence in South East Asia – owning 12 offices – transporting laden containers from feeder ports to company; from a regional player to a global Flexitank in 6 different countries. The logistics trendsetter also has transhipment ports in Malaysia. It was also the first operator; from a land logistics provider to an infrastructure an extensive network of overseas agents throughout the in South East Asia to provide multimodal tank-to-tank multimodal transport operator; and to become the best world which offers door to door movements worldwide by and silo-to-silo liquid and dry cargo in containers Its ‘landbridge’ operator in the region. sea, air, rail, land and multimodal services. introduction of the 9 feet 6 inches High Cube 20-footer containers and innovative packaging methods ensure With a group of young, dynamic, experienced and innovAtive logistiCs solutions cost effectiveness to its clients in many ways.Infinity is dedicated team, Infinity will continue aggressively to Infinity in its early years made a very conscious choice also one of the leading regional Flexitank Operators with build its brand and market presence globally with its to avoid the Red Ocean market by venturing into the Global Network. products and services in every nook and corner of the uncontested logistics and shipping market. It is constantly world! innovating to ensure that it will always be capable Infinity’s Flexitanks are not just accepted by major to reinvent methodologies in handling its customers’ shipping lines around the world but also received and

60 beStbrandS in retail - textileS

corporate branding

the PAlACe of silK AnD furnishing tAKing over the helm that came to a total net lettable area of 32,000 sq ft. When Mohamed Jakel Ahmad founded Jakel Trading in When the patriarch of the Jakel group passed away in Muar, Johor, in 1983 as a carpet wholesale supplier to 2009, Mohamed Faroz, who was 37 years old then, took Today, Jakel’s property portfolio comprises shop lots in small traders around the vicinity of Muar, little did he over the helm as the Group Managing Director and Chief the vicinity of Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur; Bangi; Cheras; know he had built the foundation for a multi-million Executive Officer and went on to build Jakel as one of the and also in Johor Baru that contributes quite a tidy sum of ringgit business group based on hard work, strong most recognised brands in textiles. recurring rental income to the group. business ethics, reputation, and quality products for his 12 children. In 2010, Jakel invested RM50mil to open an outlet in Having built up a sizeable portfolio of investment property Section 7, Shah Alam. The 80,000 sq ft store set the stage that provides a tidy sum of recurring rental income, From its humble beginnings of starting out with just a few for Jakel to make it into the Malaysia Book of Records Mohamed Faroz and his siblings have set their sights to thousand ringgit of capital, the group is today a renowned in 2010 as the Largest Textile Retail Outlet in Malaysia. venture into property development in the Klang Valley textile retailer of a broad variety of textiles that meet By then it has 20 outlets nationwide, 16 of which are under Jakel Development. the needs of the lower income, medium and premium franchise outlets. customers. It also offers a broad range of ready to wear The property development arm was founded by the Jakel fashion apparels making it one of the leading traditional Jakel is the first textile company in Malaysia to have siblings that also include Mohd Nizam, Abdul Shiraz, wear fashion houses in Malaysia. successfully opened 16 textile franchise stores under Mohd Izani and Lokman. Its maiden residential project to Perbadanan Usahawan Bumiputera since the opening of be located in Jalan Loke Yew will be launched this year. As an indication of its business prowess, Jakel has seen its first such outlet in 2004. its sale volume soared over the years from a mere few Jakel Development will be actively moving into land thousand ringgit in the 1980s to RM648mil in 2013 mAKing through tough times acquisition and real estate development of both and RM700mil in 2014. Sales revenue may well touch When many companies succumbed to the Asian financial residential and commercial projects. It has in the pipeline RM800mil this year and hit the RM1bil mark by 2017. crisis in 1997 and had to sell their property in exchange a number of integrated residential and commercial Since its first retail branch was opened in Segamat in for cash, Jakel took the opportunity to snap up some of developments for launch in the next few years. With the 1985, it went on to build up a strong market presence the fire sale property and build up a tidy nest of property strong leadership and hands on management style of the nationwide by venturing into textile retail trading and assets. Jakel siblings, the group is bound to achieve even greater supplying textiles to both the government and private success going forward. sectors. Its first store in the Klang Valley was opened in In 1997, it paid RM1.6mil to buy the 6,000 sq ft Rex Theatre 2007 in Jalan Masjid India, Kuala Lumpur that involved a in Segamat . The building was demolished and in its place capital outlay of RM30mil. were five units of three-storey shop lots with basement

62 beStbrandS in manuFacturing – preciSion tooling

corporate branding

the brAnD of ChoiCe in PreCision tooling are trained to ensure that the products fulfill the quality innovAtive teChnology K-Tool Engineering was established in 1995, starting in requirement of its clients. One of K-Tool Engineering’s biggest achievements by its a small workshop producing spare parts and eventually R&D Department is the ARE (Adhesive Reduction EDM) expanded its business into manufacturing of Precision K-Tool products have been proven to meet global OEM for Green Compound Mold for easier ‘releasibility’. It Tooling, Design and Manufacture of Mould for standards and the brand has an added advantage of being is the first Malaysian company to develop this special Semiconductors, Connectors and Electronics Industries, competitively priced – something which other OEMs are innovative process. Above and beyond that, the brand Die-Sets, Conversion Kits for Auto-Mold Systems and Mass finding difficult to follow. K-Tool goes the extra mile by has also developed a Special EDMed Surface texture on Production Parts for Multi-National-Companies (MNCs) in providing total design solutions for its customers with its cavity bar which can reduce the sticking problem and Malaysia, and globally. the emphasis on reducing cost for all of its molds through triple the time that is needed to clean the compound from a compound-saving feature and utilization of quality the cavity bars. This has inadvertently helped to increase K-Tool’s manufacturing facility is housed at its 28,000 sq.ft material for longer tool life. production time and is thus cost-saving. The company build up factory in Bayan Lepas, Penang and its products has accordingly submitted the development of its Special are supplied to Semiconductor based companies in As a result of the brand’s excellent commitment and EDMed Surface for patent rights application. Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and Europe. reliability of its products, K-Tool Engineering was chosen as a ‘preferred vendor’ for a partnership program with K-Tool Engineering has been awarded the ISO 9001 With its mission to be “Your One Stop Tooling Solution”, Amphenol TCS Penang in 2012 and 2013. Amphenol is certificate in Quality Management since the year 2002. Its K-Tool is the preferred choice when it comes to precision the world’s second largest connector manufacturer and ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Certification for the tooling, a far cry from the days when it was just producing K-Tool Engineering was honoured and proud to receive Design and Manufacture of Precision Tooling, Molds and spare parts. The brand also provides design, fabrication The Business Partner Recognition Award from Amphenol Dies, Jigs and Fixtures is a testimony of its high-quality and manufacturing of Mold, Die-Set and Conversion (TCS) Malaysia. standards and excellent track record. With such sublime Kits for the Semiconductor and Connector Industries performance, it is certainly no surprise why K-Tool worldwide. Beside this, K-Tool Engineering also received the Engineering has won numerous awards such as The 2nd Recognition Award from Schroeder + Bauer for being Top 50 Enterprise Awards Malaysia, The SME-100 Award , Commitment to QuAlity chosen as the ‘Preferred Precision Tooling Supplier’ for it 21st Century – The Prestigious Company Award and The K-Tool’s success is its commitment to providing total ‘Cost Management Programme’ and ‘On Time Delivery’ for BrandLaureate SMEs Best Brands Award . customer satisfaction by ensuring that its products and the year 2013. Schroeder + Bauer is the equipment supplier services are of excellent quality. Its Quality Assurance and manufacturer of Noxon Stamping Automation. The Department is fully equipped with the latest sophisticated mechanical engineering brand, Noxon, has been in the machinery and equipment. Its quality control personnel market for over 40 years.

64 beStbrandS in education - international SchoolS

corporate branding

Matrix Global Schools (MGS) is a wholly owned subsidiary trAining ChilDren to leArn eDuCAting beyonD bounDAries of Matrix Concepts Holding Berhad, a listed company on MGS provides a learning platform for students to be Alongside with its opening and part of its branding the Main Board of the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. It intellectually curious, responsive and persistent via initiatives, MGS also initiated a global project for the was founded in 1996 and headquartered in Seremban indoor as well as outdoor learning thus, developing a advancement of education known as the Earth Pyramid comprising of Matrix Private School, Matrix International realization that education is beyond just text books. It Incubation Centre (EPIC). EPIC is now spearheaded by MGS School and Matrix International Pre-school. The schools, aims to leverage on the learning journey itself rather and has the support of governments from 19 countries. spread over a 20-acre site are built based on a British than the destination. Its task as educators is to help its EPIC is mooting the idea for the construction of the Earth residential school concept and shares one campus, one students to discover and develop their strengths so that Pyramid monument in Bandar Sri Sendayan and upon its vision and one mission. they have the courage, skills and resourcefulness to live completion, will be another icon for tourist attraction. fulfilled lives. Infusion of interpersonal skill sets, practical The full campus institution has full-fledged facilities problem solving, survival and oratory confidence are This largest private and international education institution equivalent to most universities in the country. The entire amongst the elements that MGS provides to its students. in Negeri Sembilan also hosted an international campus features a complete range of facilities from With its affiliation with United Kingdom’s prestigious conference to share its philosophy with educationists that auditorium, lecture theatres to music rooms, recording Ellesmere College, a 130 year old British Residential learning in the 21st century is truly beyond boundaries. studios and even a performing arts center. It also has a School in Shropshire, MGS is indeed on a track towards a The two-day conference held in July last year attracted block of 428 hostel apartments. Among the other facilities more comprehensive learning process as the partnership 400 international and local delegates mainly from the are a big multipurpose hall of a 1,000 seating capacity with would allow both parties to leverage on each other’s education sector. The conference was a success which indoor badminton courts, a separate building housing its strengths. amassed more than 800 attendees. sports complex, a stadium and other features for outdoor activities such as rugby, football, wall climbing and An AwArD-winning sChool lessons for life kayaking. The Schools have received awards as a result of its The schools have the capacity to accommodate 2,500 innovative ideals and plans to set new standard in learning students and targets the market in Negeri Sembilan, enComPAsses ‘worlD As your ClAssroom’ ConCePt for both Private and International Schools. These awards south Klang Valley, international communities and as well With a vision to enhance learning efficiency through stand as a testimony of its continuous quest to change as ASEAN countries where it plans to set up recruitment fusing practicality with academic syllabus, MGS is set the face of private education in this region. Its pedagogy offices in the aforesaid countries to recruit students. In to revolutionize education in efforts to break through has now been recognized as a ‘brand’ in education ie, line with its motto ‘Nulli Secunda’ ie, second to none, boundaries, opening minds and exploring knowledge. education the ‘Matrix’ way regardless of whether in the MGS is confident in setting a new standard with its ‘global Moving away from the cliché perception that fun cannot National or International School. Despite only having experience’ learning methodology in the region. be intertwined with learning, MGS induces a whole new opened its doors in September 2014, the number of learning experience with modern technology coupled students enrolled reached a total 427 within a year, and with traditional school of thoughts. this is an increase of more than 100% inclusive of those who enrolled in advance for the next academic year. 66 beStbrandS in conStruction & civil engneering

corporate branding

exCellent brAnD Power and processing tile and stone products both locally and best in a company’s brand and even if a company is good Formerly known as Nicety Tiling Company, the NCT Group internationally. Its spacious warehouse and processing at what it does, that does not necessarily mean that it of Companies is a specialist contractor that specializes facility is capable of producing over 15,000 square meters will be noticed by potential customers. So to make its in tiling, marble and granite works. It started its humble of tiles per day; and coupled with its top-of-the-line presence felt, it came up with an objective to register its beginning in the midst of recession in early 1985 and production capabilities, allows those tiles to be delivered brand’s image into the mind of its potential future clients today, has grown to become one of Malaysia’s most quickly – ensuring that the projects are completed on by participating in certain property fairs and advertising in thriving corporations – with diversified businesses in civil time and at a reasonable rate. well-known property publications as a ‘brand awareness’ engineering, construction and property development. drive. NCT’s commitment and high quality of work can be NCT’s success is driven by the stringent attentiveness to seen on some of its prominent projects such as the NCT has come up with a few new innovative marketing superior quality and well organized work environment. Prime Minister’s Department Complex and Residence in strategies. One development strategy worth mentioning With its first-class quality control, NCT has gained several Putrajaya, Ion Delemen in Genting Highland, Al-Bukhary is the consumerism study where customer service and recognitions and awards – including the prestigious Mosque Complex in Alor Setar and a few other high-rise satisfaction is one of its focus areas to improve on. certification of the ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management residential projects in Putrajaya. Research will be conducted to study and understand the System in 2009. Standing by its Motto – ‘to deliver only consumer’s priority demands in a property. It believes the best’ – has won over the confidence of its many Compared to the rest, the Ion Delemen project was that a satisfied customer is more than an endorsement; it major clients to collaborate and work together to develop the highlight of NCT’s brand. Delemen’s luxurious is a branding statement. noteworthy properties. high-rise stature in a unique location has made many major property companies to turn and recognize NCT’s NCT aims to become a top-tier and trusted company in Apart from creating a corporate environment that attributes towards the property development industry. property development. Alongside its visionary leadership, thrives on teamwork and personal development, it also NCT is optimistic that this is just the beginning of more it continuously looks into ways of enhancing the lifestyle embraces high competency and a continual learning major players in the industry to rise up to the challenge of its clients by providing superior quality and services culture. The brand strives for progress and growth to build and provide more different options to the market. that far exceeds its clients’ expectations. Its upcoming through enhancement of competencies and continuous mix development project at Sungai Petani, Kedah, is improvement of its products and services. innovAtive mArKeting strAtegies expected to help the brand generate RM400 million gross As of today, the group has invested a hefty amount in development value. NCT remains bullish and optimistic Premier ProviDer for tiles marketing activities with the aim of building a stronger that this project would be the next highlight of the Over the years, NCT has maintained solid relationships branding image to its business. It understands that an group’s brand for people to talk about. with all its suppliers. It has the capabilities of sourcing effective marketing approach is crucial to bring out the

68 beStbrandS in education - early childhood education

corporate branding

thinKing sChool, CreAtive ChilDren branches. The kindergarten is working towards having 50 information on social media platforms such as Facebook, Founded in 1990, Nuri Kindergarten and Childcare branches in the near future. YouTube, Twitter and Instagram. Participation from Services believes that every child should be given an students in competitions such as colouring, dance equal opportunity and should not be deprived from a well- One of Nuri’s Teaching Philosophies is ‘the cycle of performances and storytelling as well as booths in established education system regardless of race, religion learning through curiosity’. With the belief that ‘if a child children’s expos have helped to raise the confidence or nationality. stays curious he will continue to explore and discover’, of the public towards the expected outcome of a child this natural method will create desire to repeat the studying in Nuri. The leading pre-school in Johor, Nuri provides the exercise. Repetition leads to mastery, which in turn opportunity for children to get affordable, holistic and creates confidence, which is a further stepping step to A brilliAnt outlooK English medium education system that has been tried exploring, discovering and learning. To keep the competitive edge, from time to time, the and tested over time. Armed with the Vision to ‘deliver a management of Nuri has upgraded its education system, world standard in Pre-School and Education & Services at eDuCAtion through the eye of brAnDing syllabus and curriculum to cater to the changing needs an affordable price’, the kindergarten has a diverse set of Investing in the power of branding, Nuri has created and challenges of the schooling system. Ensuring the employees and students and expatriates who work and awareness and built trust amongst its employees, Ministry of Education’s requirements are fulfilled, the study under one roof. customers and suppliers. Parents have confidence in the kindergarten also believes in recruiting the best teachers brand because they know what to expect in terms of the in the market to join the team and contribute to the Nuri’s education systems have been centralized and quality of service and education. success of the company and the children. managed by a group of management personnel led by its founder and board of directors. Throughout the years, Using the school motto ‘Thinking School, Creative The kindergarten believes in continual growth and has Nuri has been selected by the Jabatan Pendidikan Negeri Children’ as a marketing tool and advertisement to plans to increase the number of schools and branches Johor (JPNJ) as the benchmark for private kindergarten communicate the kindergarten’s messages, Nuri has also within the next five years. With the objective of having in Johor. The educational institution has been visited come up with a visually appealing and engaging website. almost 800 kindergarten or pre-school graduates per by educational representatives from different states Parents and potential customers are able to send queries year, Nuri has a vision to build the Nuri Institute of such as Selangor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan, about the school and services easily. Every year, the Early Childhood Education. The management of the Terengganu and Kedah. management of the kindergarten plan a strategic, well- kindergarten aims to offer continual primary and timed advertising campaign to increase awareness of secondary level education through Nuri International Nuri celebrated its Silver Jubilee – 25 Years in Early their services and increase brand presence. School as well as tertiary education that offers early Childhood Education – in 2015. The success of the childhood education programmes. kindergarten can be seen with the growth of its branches With a public relations programme in place, Nuri have – with 20 in Johor and 4 in Selangor as well as 8 childcare showcased their articles, press releases and other

70 beStbrandS in real eState - property

corporate branding

builDing moDern home sKysCrAPers Orando’s modus operandi to develop projects based on To seal the deal, Orando has devised and implemented Orando Holdings Sdn. Bhd. is a boutique property consumer insight collaborates with its need to ensure certain security measures such as ownership procedures developer that specializes in high-rise residential projects that all of its projects are safe, well maintained and and maintenance fee policies to further ensure the within the Klang Valley. It started small by working on appreciate in value responsibly through stringent home property’s equity, overall quality and value are upheld; four units of semi-detached homes in Taman Yarl, Old ownership procedures and maintenance fee policies to as well as ensuring residents and owners to feel safe all Klang Road; followed by a row of landed homes in Taman blue collar foreigners. the time. Sri Angkasa, Puchong. It was through the success of these two projects that the brand gained the confidence A touCh from the heArt A high-flying AChiever to officially venture into property development business Orando’s Mission is ‘Building Homes of Swiss – Watch Today, this once small business venture is now a rising – taking a leap of faith and trying out its first high-rise Standard’. This is a promise and philosophy adopted by the star in property development. It has rapidly advanced residential building, the Vistaria Residensi, located at company to build homes that are designed with precision, to achieve significant milestones in building excellence. Taman Kobena, Cheras. fabricated with fine craftsmanship, functionalities and Orando’s undying passion to provide quality homes and comfort that elevate its investment value to its buyers – services for the best benefit of the community has proven The Vistaria project was an instant success that thrust offering far more than meets the eye for today’s lifestyle itself to be highly credible. Orando to the forefront. Besides being completed six needs. months ahead of schedule, this 21-storey condominium It has successfully secured a respectable reputation as also had its 128 units sold out 100 per cent within days of This uncompromising belief has been the guideline for a developer who ‘builds homes from the heart’ in an its launch. Orando’s second project, Sky Vista Residensi, Orando towards developing projects with exceptional immensely competitive industry winning numerous also located in Cheras, shared the same fortune as its attributes. Besides merely fulfilling the essential awards in 2014 and 2015 such as the Sin Chew Business first. Its current projects include a 39-storey Vila Vista in requirements of modern housing properties such as Excellence Awards, Asia Pacific Property Awards, ESQR Cheras, Villa Crystal in South Desa Park and an upcoming Quality, Appreciation, Potential and Elegance; it also looks Best Quality Leadership Award, European Business future project known as City District. into building its services and considers the additional Assembly for European Quality Award and The Star element ‘affordability’ very crucially. Business Award for CSR. All its projects bear the quintessential criteria of a prospective home owner that are packed with style, Its Mission of ‘Building Homes of Swiss – Watch Standard’ Its current aim is to step into international market and uniqueness and modern looking homes in Kuala Lumpur led the boutique developer to its realization of its Vision while being proud of its achievements thus far, the brand at an affordable price. By purchasing an Orando property, to ‘build homes from heart’ – i.e. by not cutting corners strongly believes that it has more to come in the future one is almost always guaranteed a highly desirable piece in the design and construction process and its pricing owing all to the support and trust given by its satisfied of real estate that appreciates in value as quick as from strategy is aimed at creating only solid, affordable and customers. the start of signing the Sale and Purchase Agreement. value for money investments for its buyers.

72 beStbrandS in education - pre-School monteSSori

corporate branding

A Keen eye on globAl eDuCAtion students to use an innovative approach to the syllabus. PoiseD to leArn for the future The San Lorenzo International Preschool (SLIP) was San Lorenzo’s education syllabus prepares children not established 10 years ago by an experienced teaching team montessori – A uniQue eDuCAtion ProgrAmme just for school, but for life as well. The programmes – dedicated to providing high-quality preschool education San Lorenzo’s brand of education is based on the capitalize on the children’s absorbent minds and sensitive for children aged 18 months to 6 years. philosophy of the well known Italian Physician and periods and aims for holistic increase during their Educator, Dr. Maria Montessori. A pioneer in early developmental years. SLIP’s top management of directors and trainers have childhood education, she believed that that it was during qualifications as early childhood educators and the the first six years of development is when the child’s At SLIP, each child is treated like a unique individual but extensive experience working with children in Singapore powers of absorption are highest and lifelong attitudes is taught to love learning, through self discipline – two and Malaysia. The brand’s hope is to share the knowledge and patterns of learning are formed. The Montessori qualities that will assist them through in their school life. and experience in the developing field and bring quality system of education is suited for these formative years as The well-tailored lessons using specialized Montessori education to Malaysian children. it is uniquely and effectively designed. materials, both simple & complex and concrete & abstract, accord students the best opportunity to explore For the preschool, the idea of ‘Global Education’ is SLIP prepares students with holistic learning methods and and learn. delivered with the aim to help children find their own principles from a young age; where the curriculum focuses place in the world community. With class activities more than the traditional counting, reading and speaking All staff are highly trained at the preschool and receive and celebrations, San Lorenzo Preschool has ambitions skills. Among specialized education provided include right specialist in-house and international training throughout to develop true ‘Citizens of the World’ – children who brain learning, physical play, sensorial exercises, science, their employment there in order to maintain SLIP’s appreciate, respect and enjoy life’s diversity. cultural subject, creative arts & crafts, cookery sessions high standards of quality preschool education. The and language classes. management believes that equipping teachers with Armed with the belief that every child is unique, the highest standards of training and professional lesson plans are individualized to cater to each child’s These activities contribute to developing well-balanced development is the best way to give quality early educational needs. At SLIP, the teachers and management children. Some of the programmes available for students childhood education for students. understand the importance of the early years of learning. include the ‘Buzy Buddies’ toddler sessions to Nursery 1 With the common thought that 80 per cent of the child’s & 2 and Kindergarten 1 & 2; while parent-toddler classes Recognized for being the Best Brand for Preschool brain development happens by the age of five, the give a chance for parents to learn together with the Education for two consecutive years and the ‘Best preschool’s courses are designed to make sure children child. Other enrichment programmes include Phonics & Montessori Programme’ by readers of the Baby Talk get the optimum chance to build cognitive, social and Reading, Creative Writing & Comprehension and Parent Magazine, San Lorenzo is all set to continue teaching physical skills. The programme supports the existing Education Programme. holistically in order to give children the best possible start school curriculum by providing life skills that encourage in life.

74 beStbrandS in manuFacturing - linier FloureScent lighting

corporate branding

the lighting luminAries quality merchandise. Its host of machinery enables the aims to achieve this by its actions today. It adopts its RGE Lighting Industries is one of the leading manufacturers manufacturer to double up its production capacity and at Green Mission into everyday tasks – with each employee of fluorescent and LED lighting brands in Malaysia. the same time to improve on quality considerably. In fact, understanding the importance their contribution can Established in 2008 in Penang, RGE’s manufacturing the company is the only LED and fluorescent light fitting make to the planet. The brand strongly focuses on encompasses an area of 6,000 sq. meters and currently manufacturer that has invested in two highly advanced environmental issues and will continue to seek new employs over 180 staff. RGE’s founders have been in the BJB Robotic Auto Wiring Machines. It is also the first light alternate working practices to ensure the best outcome fluorescent lighting field since the 1980’s, continues to fitting producer in Malaysia that acquired the Salvagnini for both its customers and the environment. spearhead the brand in present time to be at the forefront Fiber Laser Cutting Machine. of the industry. Acknowledging that the Planet is important to everyone, RGE’s dynamic management and Research and the brand’s “Ready Green” approach aids it in playing its RGE comprises of RGE Lighting Industries Sdn. Bhd. (RGE) Development (R&D) team ensures that its fluorescent and part to preserve the wonders of Mother Nature without which is the manufacturing plant and RGE Marketing Sdn. LED luminaires are 100% performing and safe and comply compromising on the quality of its lighting products. In Bhd. (RGEM) being the marketing arm for the domestic to both light and visual test inspections. It is ISO 9001:2008 the same breath, as an ODM, the company designs its market. RGE’s footprints spread throughout Malaysia, certified and the brand’s commitment to quality does goods with optimum effectiveness in mind, by using with regional customers in Australia, Singapore, Vietnam not end here. RGE’s products are tested and certified by modern technology combined with quality materials that and Sri Lanka. It also serves two of the largest global SIRIM Malaysia Berhad and meets the standards set by will bring about a brighter tomorrow. lighting and electrical corporations. the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), ST and JKR. AwArDs & ACColADes Moving into the future, RGE aims to position itself as RGE was awarded the SIRIM Quality Award 2013 – Product one of the Top Ten Global manufacturers, producing eco- With its emphasis on quality and compliance to Category in recognition of its high level of achievements friendly, creative and technological advanced products. international standards, all of RGE’s products exceed in quality management and excellent merchandise To ensure its sustainability, it will work towards achieving customers’ expectations and this commitment towards production that meets local and global standards. RGE an increase in sales of 25% per year over the next 5 years, quality excellence has allowed RGE to develop a strong was also honoured with The BrandLaureate SMEs Best coupled with an increase level of on-time delivery from brand name. Brands Award 2013 for Best Brands in Corporate Branding 95% - 100%. – Manufacturing – Linear Fluorescent Lighting. This the green mission clearly testifies that R.G.E. has put in the right strategy suCCess through QuAlity Having successfully secured its leadership positioning, in building its brand name with much commitment and RGE has created a name for itself via the usage of state-of- RGE’s next mission is to champion for Green energy. The passion – thereby enhancing its brand image and value the-art equipment; coupled with the production of high- brand is strongly focused on a ‘Green Tomorrow’ and globally.

76 beSt brandS in Food & beverage - coFFee

corporate branding

the AromAtiC brew of suCCess When many FMCG were concentrating on selling their production process, and coupled with a well-trained Wetra started its business operations in 1997 as a sole products through retail outlets, Wetra promoted its workforce, has resulted in production efficiency, cost proprietorship, selling its own manufactured brand of products through the van sales concept. Another effectiveness, quality excellence, food safety and on-time pre-mix coffee from a van. Customers’ response to its pre- innovative idea was to mount the sachets of pre-mix delivery. mix coffee was overwhelming and this led the company coffee on cards to display and sell. Wetra set the trend for to expand its business by acquiring and additional unit of this unique sales idea and it is now part of the Malaysian Moreover, Wetra has faithfully carried out its social van and launching new products to suit the market needs culture. responsibilities in its endeavour to be a good corporate . citizen. This is reflected in the Group’s various programs Business grew rapidly and from a sole proprietorship, The brand believes in continuous improvement of product – including its environment-friendly waste management, Wetra was incorporated as a private limited company. A quality. The Group’s manufacturing entity has constantly practical training schemes for students of training manufacturing arm, Wetra Food Industry was set up in strived to upgrade its manufacturing process and invested institutes, polytechnics, universities and various other 2001 to handle the manufacturing of its products, ranging in R&D. The Group produces a wide range of Halal instant community projects. from the premix instant coffee with herbal additives to food and beverages, fortified with herbs, to provide the white coffee market. Some of the brand’s bestsellers healthy and wholesome nutrition to the general public. future PlAns include Kopi Pracampuran Kopi Jantan, Kopi Pracampuran For the short and medium term, the Group will focus Italian Cappucino, Kopi Pracampuran Kopi Larat, Kopi The Group’s manufacturing arm, Wetra Food Industries on upgrading product quality, R&D, technical expertise, Pracampuran Ali Wetra, Kopi Pracampuran Putery, Kopi Sdn. Bhd., is HACCP-certified for Food Safety and Halal- production efficiency and employee skills to meet stiff Pracampuran Coffee Time, Kopi Pracampuran Susu certified by Jakim. With total commitment from all levels competition as well as challenges from the domestic front Kambing Cappuccino, Kopi Pracampuran Vietnam Classic of the organization, Wetra strives to uphold its objectives with renewed vigour and strength. Coffee, Susu Halia Madu, Malt Mangosteen and Susu of halal, food safety, quality, original taste, total customer Kambing Pracampuran KDC. satisfaction and continuous improvement. As for the long term, reliance on a firm foundation of technical knowhow, financial resources, production Today, Wetra is an active key player in the food and Being a step ahead and recognizing the importance of efficiency; plus being led and managed by a qualified and beverage industry and the Group now comprises 10 R&D, the Group, through its manufacturing company, experienced management team, has poised the Group for companies with its own factory building, warehouse, is committed to constantly upgrade and develop new tremendous growth by venturing into new business from shop lot and more than 100 units of motor vehicles used products of uncompromising quality to cater to the latest OEM customers and overseas markets. The Group is ready for business operations over extensive branches covering consumer demands in its unwavering quest for continuous to face stiff competition and challenges resulting from all the states in the country. customer satisfaction and loyalty. the globalization of the world economy with a ‘premix of confidence’. setting trenDs through innovAtion Using the latest state-of-the-art machinery and equipment Innovation has been a major factor in Wetra’s success. and adopting good manufacturing practices in the

78 beStbrandS in Service - emergency reSponSe & management

corporate branding

mAster of the inDustry As the master in the industry, WGG has an extensive list of What makes them different from their competitors is their Founded in 2004 by Australians Tim Allsop and Mike clientele from a number of industry sectors who continue approach through passion and understanding to get it Herrmann, Wild Geese Group Sdn Bhd (WGG) is all about to utilize their expert services around the globe, their right by conforming with industry standards requirements empowering those in emergency and safety management programs and products are customized to suit the clients’ and imparting of knowledge from personal experiences as with state-of-the art knowhow of global caliber. A needs. operators, supervisors and managers. Malaysian owned, PETRONAS licensed and Industry endorsed company with a proven track record, WGG has The company conducts Emergency Management & Crisis WGG has become a central hub for clients across the established itself as a credible, cost effective Emergency Management programs and workshops internationally industry from all around the world to call for their Response support capable company. across a wide range of industry sectors and because of expertise, in man power provision, certification of this exposure, experience and expertise, they are able competency or simply to develop a learning or assessing As a small boutique company, the core business for to quickly share what works and what doesn’t work. It tool for implementation onboard their facility to ensure the past decade has been to support both large and is the Group’s approach and style that keeps them at the efficiency and effectiveness is maintained. small companies in establishing and maintaining the summit of the business, delivering with a passionate and appropriate Emergency Management framework that un-intrusive manner and will deliver within your operating Being home based in South East Asia where the industry is both easy to understand, implement and balanced parameters. has and continues to enjoy a steady growth with diverse within the industry operating criteria for compliance with undertones sees their ability to respond quickly to standards and legislation. the DeDiCAteD teAm mobilization to clients areas of operations as well as The team at Wild Geese have worked extensively at all understand firsthand the challenges that are faced daily The Group has successfully integrated the OPITO levels of command and control, bringing over 35 years of at the coal face by the operators. standards into their Emergency Response Service Centre combined military and 15 years oil and gas experience, facility, with more than a decade of Emergency and Crisis they fully appreciate and understand both the challenges Competitors struggle to match their approach or management experience in training, assessment and and requirements that need to be addressed when performance deliverables, whether it is conducting consultation in Malaysia to the oil and gas industry. WGG operating in a risk filled environment. They pride some onsite verification training for emergency response business model is seen by others as a model to use. As themselves on client satisfaction without sacrificing teams, designing competency development programs the industry continues in 2016 to change under the new standards and competencies. The flock consists of highly for nationalization mandates or assessing installation commercial environment, the WGG ERSC concept is seen trained, experienced industry personnel who are self- managers in the fine art of Emergency Management. as a real outsource option to maintain standards whilst motivating and conduct themselves and their tasks with a staying within moving budgets. mentoring approach, who will seize every opportunity to strengthen the resilience to loss of life at the work place.

80

SMEs be distinctive, be a brand of distinction the brandlaureate ....Dr KKJohan smes product Branding Awards beStbrandS in manuFacturing - oFFice Seating Solution

product branding

CreAtor of AvAnt-gArDe offiCe seAting solutions The uniqueness of Benithem’s products has kept the customers is not only satisfying them but impressing Established since 1999, Benithem prides itself as avant- brand in the forefront of the global market – scoring them and exceeding their expectations. garde office seating solutions designer and manufacturer. high-recognition which makes it stand out amongst its The company is committed to finding the best fit between competitors. The Benithem brand communicates that its To be the best – this is Benithem’s aspiration. ‘Better’ is user, equipment and environment by designing and products are of top-notch design and ergonomics which possible and ‘good’ is not enough. Benithem also believes marketing ergonomic chairs to increase the comfort enhance work performance. that ‘Where there’s a will, there’s a way’. and productivity of people across the world. As an ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004 certified company, beyonD exCellenCe, effeCtiveness AnD effiCienCy seAteD firmly for the future Benithem ensures that its quality management system is Benithem’s Mission is to design and manufacture office At Benithem, having empathy is very important. It executed in a consistent and environmentally-responsible seating that meets international standards and be means not only listening to what customers, partners, manner. admired globally for its aesthetic value; comfort and shareholders and team members need but also having a improves productivity. To drive the brand, the company heart for their concerns and desires. It is sincerity that Creative designs and R&D are key aspects which spur frequently participates in international trade fairs. builds a strong foundation for a long-lasting relationship. Benithem’s success in the global market. The brand is The company also believes that being Green is not just sold in over 40 countries worldwide. International branding awards such as The BrandLaureate, about products or business but about how we live our Industry Excellence Award, Enterprise 50, Malaysian life. It prides itself on being a company of responsible Currently operating from a 90,000 sq ft facility in Pekan Brand (National Mark), Global Performance Excellence individuals who try to make this world a better and Nanas, Johor, Malaysia, Benithem has always stressed the Award and others have increased Benithem’s public healthier place to live in. importance of Innovation, Quality, Service and Gratitude profile. as the company’s guiding principles in building a globally Benithem has a long-standing commitment to inspire recognized brand. Continuous research and development, The company’s Brand Culture is born of a people-centered and educate the next generation on how to choose good efficient manufacturing, customer-focused sales and approach, and strong commitment to exceptional service, quality and ergonomic office seating. It plans to build an services, combined with team members’ commitment and product quality, innovation and green and sustainable education centre and product gallery for this purpose – as teamwork; plus support from partners and customers, are practices. Its Quality Objective, which is ‘Beyond proper seating is extremely important towards having a the foundation of the company’s success. Excellence, Effectiveness and Efficiency’, has reinforced healthy spine. its success to build a notable brand. At Benithem, branding begins with the building of Benithem’s products comply fully with international office trust with employees, customers and stakeholders. The Benithem’s core values have inspired and impacted its seating standards like ANSI/BIFMA (USA) and indoor air management believes that branding is the sum total of the employees, customers and stakeholders alike. With its quality standards like GREENGUARD (USA). As a leading company’s value – including products, services, people, focus on being proactive, the company believes in putting manufacturer, its innovative products can be seen in advertising, positioning and culture. The company’s plans into action and creating opportunities instead of models such as BC3, Curve Plus, Zoom, Room, Mode and Vision is to be globally recognized as the best chair brand waiting for them. Innovation comes about by not only others. in terms of design and ergonomics for both corporate and looking at the trends but by creating new trends. Servicing home offices. 84 beStbrandS in conSumer - led Solution

product branding

the best lighting solution relevant certification bodies such as SIRIM, Energy AligneD PoliCy AnD mission Britegate LED lighting solutions are the products of Penang- Commission of Malaysia, Restriction of Hazardous Over the years, NationGate has managed to stick to its based NationGate Solution (M) Sdn Bhd. Established Substances (RoHS), Buatan Malaysia approval, Green aligned policy and mission in order to stay on top of the in December 1998, NationGate started off as a Contract Tag, and Industrial Partner of Malaysia Green Building game in such a competitive market. NationGate puts Manufacturer with a vision to serve the industrial sector Confederation (MGBC). In Singapore, LED Lighting was quality as its top priority by emphasizing the importance by providing alternative choices to prospects. awarded the Singapore Green Building Product Certificate of quality among the employees and they aim to by Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC) for our maintain the competition in the power market with the Services provided by NationGate include all kinds of SMD excellent product, LED Luminairies. highest quality in their product and services. NationGate (Surface Mount Devices), COB (Chip On Flex/ Board), Auto believes that this could be achieved through continuous Insert, Manual Insert and Mechanical Assembly (Box leD is the new blACK training for the employees and continual improvement Build). LED is termed as a breakthrough in the industry as is in the process. Another measure taken to maintain the energy-saving, durable, good optimal performance, eco- philosophy throughout the company, NationGate is Brite Gate LED, is the first in market to embrace digital friendly and safe (free from mercury) and so far, there committed to meet and exceed customers’ requirement IC driver and revolutionise the way we light up with is no other LED fluorescent tube as good as the ones consistently with the highest level of satisfaction through LED lighting. Their LED products is different from the uniquely and practically designed by BriteGate. It has the cohesive effort of their staffs and supplier. current market supply as digital IC driver do not contain proven energy efficiency which will result in astronomical e-capacitor (shortest life electronics component), thus savings in any business settings. NationGate firmly believes that long-term customer giving out more consistency and a longer life span. satisfaction is the cornerstone of their success. To LED Lighting offers advanced, efficient, ultra long life continue meeting the changing needs of their valued With the technology, facility and skill that the company and ultra-long life and environmentally friendly high customers, NationGate is committed to creating value possessed, Britegate LED tubes are self-designed and power LED lighting solutions. Their strength lies in the that increases customer competitiveness through a 100% locally manufactured. The production has taken ability to customize most of their products to ensure World-Class Manufacturing Excellence solution that durability, reliability, good Lumen performance and customers receive optimum results, be it in the fields of delivers superior quality and service. effective thermal management into account to ensure Entertainment, Commercial, Solar or Industrial. the best performance is provided. Designed specifically By continuing to deepen their knowledge, developing for the private, commercial and industrial line, these Not only are they safe and easy to operate, they are also innovative solutions and advancing their capabilities, products are able to save cost even with 24 hours usage energy efficient and eco-friendly. A perfect pairing to their they are aiming to help global industry leaders to increase daily. vision in providing the latest breakthrough technology in their efficiency, lower their costs and to stay ahead of the LED lighting while protecting the Earth! game. As a trusted brand, Britegate is accredited by all the

86 beStbrandS in conSumer - rubber Footwear

product branding

fliP floP footweAr for Comfort safe footwear to Malaysians and international market. latest developments in footwear to ensure that Coveitchi® Coveitchi®, the leading rubber flip flop brand in Malaysia is Coveitchi ® footwear is available at retail outlets such as stays relevant and functional in the highly competitive manufactured under Delta Creation Sdn Bhd. Established stores The Pacific, The Stores & Mydin Holdings. market. in 1994 as a family business, the company started in the retail sector under the Xin Jiang Chang Sdn Bhd and later footweAr trenDing future DeveloPments moved into manufacturing. Delta Creation was set up to Delta Creation’s vision is to provide customers with In the competitive retail and fashion market, Coveitchi handle the manufacturing of rubber footwear and layer unique yet quality and comfortable footwear products . It ® will continue to ensure that the brand maintains progressed to EVA slippers, PVC shoes, rainboots, custom caters to the young and adults markets and is available in its position by introducing innovative strategies that EVA & rubber sheet. a range of colors with stylish designs. encompass fashionable designs that appeal to consumers of all ages and segments. Having established itself for more than 2 decades, Delta Its footwear is made from natural rubber that is known Creation provides services to famous footwear companies for its safe and eco-friendly features. Natural rubber is slip It will invest in the latest technology to produce quality for customized and OEM manufacturing. It then moved on resistant, elastic and bio-degradable and not harmful to footwear and works towards enhancing its standard to create its own brand, Coveitchi® and today, Coveitchi® the feet in any adverse ground condition. operating processes to comply with international is the leading brand in Delta Creation’s portfolio. It standards and meet the high demands of international offers footwear that are of high quality, stylish, fun, The company utilizes the latest Information Technology clients. practical and easy on the feet . The brand has a wide systems and solutions to enhance its designs and range of designs that meet customers’ expectations and operating procedures. It uses computer aided designs to Coveitchi ® will continue to expose its brands to the world frequently develops new designs in line with the latest create soft thick rubber soles that provide multi experience and its mission is to let everyone wears Coveitchi®. By fashion trends. Through its core values of honesty, comfort for consumers when walking on different ground participating in international footwear exhibitions and integrity and respect for its customers’ and employees, topographic environment. One of its latest developments fashion shows to promote the brand, it hopes to expand it is committed to provide quality products and first class is the unique rubber slipper that improves the quality of its clientele base after sales customer service. slip resistant and comfort attributes. Apart from footwear, Coveitchi® is considering venturing Delta Creation is currently the number one manufacturer Delta Creation’s designers, who are young and dynamic into the field of accessories to complement its footwear, for rubber flip-flop footwear in the country and its facility comes up with designs that cater to customers of all ages thus giving consumers a more complete and better brand in Batu Pahat, Johor continues to supply comfortable and and lifestyles. It keeps track on the fashion trends and experience.

88 beStbrandS in conSumer - plaStic-houSe & kitchen ware

product branding

website : www.elianware.com

humble home-grown brAnD and improvement as well as capacity expansion. The Ee-Lian Enterprise (M) Sdn. Bhd. (ELE) is a plastic ware Ee-Lian Plastic Industries (M) Sdn. Bhd. was formed in Group’s brands are actively promoted utilizing different solutions provider specializing in designing, developing, 2001 to venture into manufacturing the company’s own platforms – from traditional print media to billboards to manufacturing and distributing of a wide range of plastic products for better quality control in the midst of a very the Internet and social media. Extensive advertising is storage, preparation, containment, serving and cleaning competitive market. also done in publications and directories. To showcase its products for home, office and industrial applications. The products, the Group regularly participates in trade fairs, company also imports, manufactures and trades in other In 2009, the company obtained the licensing right to conferences and exhibitions locally and internationally. household products including plastic furniture, party produce and distribute household plastic wares under the Marketing efforts are also carried out together with its supplies, bakery ware, gardening and cleaning products Disney and Warner Bros brands in Malaysia; after meeting appointed wholesalers, distributors and intermediaries to under its own brand names. It currently distributes over stringent quality requirements. bring the brands to the end-user. 3000 stock keeping units (SKUs) of household plastic wares locally and internationally; mostly designed, leADing by brAnD exPAnsion The Group is actively growing its market presence developed and manufactured in-house under the brand The Group strives to produce quality products, placing overseas, particularly in the ASEAN countries and China. name ELIANWARE®. strong emphasis on quality control through its quality management system (QMS) to monitor, control, manage niChe mArKeting for the future The ELIANWARE® brand began with a range of plastic food and improve its production processes. It obtained the The Group wants to differentiate itself from competitors by trays. Initially started with only four personnel, including ISO 9001:2008 certifications from BM Trade Certification catering for the niche premium market segment. As such, its Founders, Teoh Han Chuan and Heng Sew Hua, and Limited for the manufacturing of plastic injected products it has embarked on a new range of innovative household operating in a rented shop house in Georgetown, the in 2010. plastic wares, focusing on food and beverage containers Group now has a workforce of 336 personnel operating in and keepers as well as water bottles and tumblers. This four manufacturing and warehousing facilities in Penang With over 22 years of experience as a leading plastic wares range will be marketed under a new brand, Apple Lemon, – with a total investment of over RM129.1 million in land provider in Malaysia and overseas, ELE has established a offering better quality, higher durability and safety; in and buildings, plant and machineries and a fleet of four reputable name acknowledged for innovation and quality. compliance with international requirements. transportation trucks. Its stable of brands has grown to include Ezy-Lock, e-Lock, True-Lock, e-Plas, Home Perfect and So Clear, besides With Apple Lemon, the Group intends to develop and from PenAng to the worlD ELIANWARE®. commercialize between 30 to 50 new products from the In 2001, Ee Jia Housewares (M) Sdn. Bhd. was formed first year of launching – scheduled for end 2016. Apple to market and distribute its products directly to brAnDing PresenCe through mArKeting AnD Lemon products will be made from high-grade raw hypermarkets, supermarkets and chain retailers. The exPAnsion materials, such as anti-bacterial plastic resins, and will same year saw a major milestone with the company ELE’s success lies in its ability to stay ahead of its peers be BPA-free, have anti-dust properties and be microwave exporting its products to the Middle East, Presently, it by constantly expanding its business operations and safe. Products will feature first-class packaging designs exports to over 25 countries. product mix. This it achieves through product innovation while offering lifetime warranty. 90 beStbrandS in conSumer - FreSh produc and marine produce

product branding

nurturing growth: brAnDing viA trust, QuAlity & executives scour the world in search of the best fruits, It stands out on all the company’s delivery trucks and serviCe vegetables and seafood for import purposes and conduct product packaging. The logo is accompanied by impactful Euro-Atlantic was incorporated in 1992 in Malaysia as an careful product research to ensure its clientele receive the Taglines – Best Fresh, Better Life, Fresh Produce-Seafood- importer of specialty fruits and vegetables. Spurred on best quality at the most competitive price. Gourmet and Specialty Fruits, Vegetables & Marine by Conscientiousness and Dedication, the group is today Produce – to communicate what the brand stands for and a leading importer and distributor of a wide range of To provide the highest standards in hygiene and food its assurance to the consumers. It is also a commitment specialty fruits and vegetables as well as fresh and frozen safety, Euro-Atlantic only invests in quality cold rooms that the company wants every employee to be aware of seafood. and equipment. As a result, the company is proud to have and thus ensure that only the best products are sold. been awarded the distinguished HACCP certification. Holding true to the principles of Trust, Quality and bringing in A bigger hArvest Service, Euro-Atlantic has grown steadily in the last mission & vision Euro-Atlantic is in the midst of sourcing and bringing two decades under good corporate leadership and the Euro-Atlantic’s Mission is to achieve excellence in food in more healthy high-quality produce, both fresh and collective efforts of a dedicated workforce. Today, the safety and handling to become Malaysia’s leading gourmet, to complement its current range. And, as company’s operations cater to a distinguished clientele importer and distributor of fresh produce and seafood. consumers are getting more health-conscious, the comprising the US Navy, airlines, ship chandlers, major The company’s Vision is to become the one-stop-centre for objective of its branding is to enhance the perception of hotels, hypermarkets, supermarkets and up-market Food specialty food in the country as it continues to bring the First Pick as not only FRESH but HEALTHY as well. & Beverage outlets in the Klang Valley, Penang, Johor best products from around the world to the consumer’s Bahru and Kota Kinabalu. doorstep. The company’s uncompromising initiative and efforts in bringing the best quality fresh produce, packing them in The company’s largest investment is in human resource, first PiCK for QuAlity & freshness high-quality food grade material, investing in eye-catching where it is committed to training and developing its staff Through its brand – First Pick – Euro-Atlantic has been design labels, and transporting them through state-of- at all levels and guiding them towards becoming highly communicating its promise of bringing quality and the-art cold-chain management systems, have driven skilled personnel in their respective departments. freshness to its customers. Today customers know what to industry players to follow suit. This in effect has forced expect from the company’s products; thus differentiating the industry players to bring higher quality produce to builDing rAPPort, ADDing vAlue the brand from its competitors. First Pick may not consumers in Malaysia – thereby benefitting the general At Euro-Atlantic, the management places heavy emphasis necessarily be the cheapest – but it promises and offers public on the whole. on the establishment of good service and rapport with the high-quality option. Effective and sustained branding the company’s customers and it continuously seeks new efforts have given First Pick an edge over its competitors First Pick is firmly established as a leading brand in the avenues to add value to its products and services to and customers have come to recognize and value the fresh produce industry in Malaysia. To drive the brand ensure customer satisfaction. brand. forward, the company’s management is always looking out for innovative ideas with the objective of growing the The company’s philosophy of trust is reflected through The First Pick product logo has been developed to be easily fresh produce industry to be among the best in the world. its investment in product development. Its purchasing recognizable as a symbol of high quality and reliability. 92 beStbrandS in liFeStyle - muSlim apparel

product branding

stitCheD in history: on the Cutting eDge of islAmiC niChe mAestro: tAiloring to A growing mArKet ahead of the pack. From TV stations to corporate clients, fAshion Sri Munawwarah Design started from scratch in an royalty and VVIPs to travel agents, Munawwarah was Established in 1992 in Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, untapped market sector. Hardly anybody saw the consulted on grooming and dress sense – providing Sri Munawwarah Design or Munawwarah, in short, was potential of the ‘Islamic Fashion’ industry in the early education on trendy yet visually appealing Islamic attire. founded by CEO and Design Director, Dato’ Hajah Tuan 90’s. It was not a trendy sector of fashion – leaning instead Hasnah. Presently, three other key directors help to run more towards orthodox Muslims and the older age group. threADing beyonD: sewing A Promising future this successful outfit which has made steady inroads into However, Dato’ Hajah Tuan Hasnah saw the potential Munawwarah has, and will always be, an organic business the local Islamic fashion scene since its formation. They of organic growth of the fashion needs of the Muslims, targeted at fulfilling the needs of the people from all include COO/Marketing Director, Hajah Haslina Mohd. especially in the middle to upper classes of society. These walks of life. It offers simple and practical solutions which Ali, Creative and Artistic Director, Haji Hazmi Mohd. Ali were the people who sought to identify themselves are of a totally different branch of fashion. This requires and Logistics Director, Haji Shamsul Rizal Ghazalli. with products of a certain quality and philosophy rather experience and a mature research base which is lacking in then something generic. And indirectly, that was what many new players in the industry. Munawarrah is currently housed in nine ground-floor happened. Munawwarah is the pioneer when it comes to shop-lots in Taman Tun. Each outlet is a department on making Islamic fashion trendy, comfortable and stylish – Munawwarah is a family-oriented outfit, where key its own, comprising: offering a departure from the then rather run-of-the-mill players are very close-knit; and all who are involved are •Munawwarah Ladies Hajj & Umrah choices of low-grade, orthodox designs. groomed to respect each other and work together. Hence •Munawwarah Ladies Basic & Kids the evolution of Munawwarah is consistent with a synergy •Munawwarah Black & Bling – basic black & The company’s strong relationships with customers and built through hard work and perseverance. occasion wear suppliers, plus positive word-of-mouth marketing, became •Munawwarah Women’s Essentials – lingerie & its strongest weapon in building the brand. Its many years Going forward, Munawwarah is looking into launching its cosmetics of experience in the Islamic fashion industry has sealed own TV Show on TV Alhijrah. The company will also be •Munawwarah Casuals & Resortwear the brand Munawwarah as a trendsetter in the field. conducting fashion shows and workshops in Malaysia and •Munawwarah Men overseas. With online marketing and sales complementing •Munawwarah Ladies Fashion For Munawwarah, branding initiatives were effortless and its branding efforts, it looks like Munawwarah has secured •Munawwarah Tudung costless as the brand was a novelty in an age where people a strategic place on the runway of Islamic fashion. •Munawwarah Bazaar wanted modest, stylish and good quality apparel and had nowhere else to go to find such products. The company’s Future plans for Munawwarah include the launching The premises also features a Lifestyle Hall where active involvement as media wardrobe consultants during of sub-brands, offering a more affordable range for Munawwarah Events holds a variety of wellness and an increasingly Islamic environment in almost all sectors the younger market. It is also eyeing the international holistic programmes – from religious classes to styling gave it a head-start. market – in which case, with its 20 years’ experience and workshops to Zumba and fitness sessions for its clients. expertise, the company has just the the job cut out for it! In the pipeline is Munawwarah Online which will further Approached by many to fulfill the needs and requirements enhance the brand’s profile. of modest dressing, the demand drove Munawwarah 94 if you are not driven, the brandlaureate your brand will be driven out event snapshots ....Dr KKJohan

Can YOUR BRAND attain IMMORTALITY? Can it become an INTEGRAL part of peoples’ lives? Can it TRANSCEND the disconnected realm of branding the brandlaureate into one of EMOTIONAL tIES, NOSTALGIA & GOOD FEELINGS s to become a HOUSEHOLD NAME? sme signature branding Awards

....Dr KKJohan beStbrandS in logiStic - courier

Signature branding

Delivering sAtisfACtion worlDwiDe a market leader in Sabah and deals with door to door exPAnDing its brAnDPrint Established in 1984, ABX Express (M) Sdn Bhd is one trucking services. With more than 60 trucks and a network The local logistic business is valued at RM1.9 billion of the leading courier companies in Malaysia. With a of 16 service counters, it is the leading local logistic brand and increasing annually. The market offers great track record of 32 years, the company is well respected in the State. Plans are afoot to venture into the supply potential for growth and ABX Express will develop new amongst its peers in the industry. With a network of 75 chain business. innovative strategies and solutions to capitalize on these service centers throughout Malaysia and Brunei, ABX opportunities. provides total logistic solutions which include door to The utilization of modern technologies has helped to door express delivery of documents and packages, inland improve the company’s efficiency and productivity of the As the bulk of its business comes from the financial transportation, air freight, cards and bulk distribution brand. ABX Express uses state of the art computer tracking institutions, where ABX Express handles the collections as well as mailroom services. It is also involved in the systems which are able to provide real time tracking on and deliveries of cheque books, cheques, financial collection of cheques between banks and Bank Negara. the precise status of the packages from pick up point instruments, trade papers and high security financial to final destination. The courier trucks are equipped papers, it will double up its technology to ensure better ABX Express handles the delivery and shipment of millions with handheld devices that transmit information on monitoring of documents and increase its security of documents and parcels annually within its operating the shipment to the main office. Missing parcels and features. standards of a day or two delivery. The freight sector documents can be tracked and returned to customers which handles delivery of heavy and large shipments is through its bar-code scanners. Further spurred by its success in the warehousing and done within three to five days at the lowest possible price. trucking services, the company will continue to promote It also provides backroom services such as outsourcing It recently embarked on the development and upgrading these services and further invest in its infrastructure to mailroom arrangement that consists of mail sorters, mail of ICT internally and to date are the propriety owners of provide customers with the best facilities and services. runners and bulk cheque clearance. the SmartShip and SmarTrak systems; it is also the first and only local courier company to invest in the state of As a founder member of the Global Distribution Alliance enhAnCing its serviCe through ADvAnCeD art mobile scanners. (GDA), a consortium of leading courier companies in teChnologies their respective countries, ABX Express will tap on this To stay relevant and address the ever changing needs of The extensive use of ICT has also helped to enhance ABX consortium for better future business opportunities. the business environment, ABX Express has expanded Express’ partnership with the customers through greater Through GDA, ABX Express is the only local courier its business into warehousing, distribution and tracking. efficiency and productivity, ensuring ‘cost-effective company with international link in 220 countries. Its wholly owned subsidiary, UTS Logistics Sdn Bhd, is quality solutions.

104 beStbrandS in F&b - pearl milk tea

Signature branding

brewing A lifestyle teA Culture – with almost 90 per cent of market share in the local In an effort to modernize the consumer’s shopping Founded in Taiwan, Chatime is an internationally market. Chatime has been the largest Pearl Milk Tea experience, Chatime introduced a new prepaid cash renowned lifestyle tea brand franchise and one of the Beverage Chain in Malaysia since March 2014. Each drink system called Thirstea Ringgit into its existing Thirstea fastest-growing beverage brands in the world. is individually prepared by over 800 trained ‘tearistas’ card loyalty programme. In addition to existing benefits, across 130 outlets nationwide to-date and the number the new prepaid system allows customers to top up money Established in 2003, Chatime is currently the only public- continues to grow. into their Thirstea card for future purchases. This way, listed beverage provider in the Taiwan Stock Market. As they can enjoy a truly cashless purchasing experience. a world market leader in the international lifestyle tea “Our passion is in creating businesses that eventually industry, Chatime uses innovative approaches to create become cultures, and which eventually transform Putting its usual innovative spin on things, Chatime has creative, healthy, natural and delicious beverages that communities. In the case of Chatime, our focus is in also launched a mobile application in October 2015. appeal to every consumer. fostering the tea drinking culture. We have a strong Through the new Chatime Malaysia app, customers can need to understand our customers, and how to leverage stay connected to the latest Chatime news and promotions Currently with 1002 outlets in 26 countries, the company technology in order to provide a better choice of drinks, and receive freebies directly on their mobile phones. With counts Malaysia as its biggest market – with over 100 given customers’ drinking habits,” divulges Bryan Loo, the introduction of Thirstea Ringgit, the app will also stores and generating about 50 per cent of its global Managing Director, Chatime Malaysia. allow Thirstea members to make payment and reload revenue. their cards as well as keep tabs on their loyalty rewards – brAnD-builDing innovAtion no matter where they are. This latest development is the fostering A younger mArKet The entire organization is dedicated to brand-building as first step of Chatime’s latest initiatives to help bring the Chatime Malaysia is the biggest international franchise an integral part of the business; with focus on building company towards the digital frontier and improve overall of the Taiwanese teahouse brand. Embarking on an collaborations with other brands and a commitment to customer engagement with the brand. aggressive expansion plan, the company aims to foster driving innovation in the industry. the tea drinking culture here; especially among the future PlAtform younger audience. With this effort, Chatime Malaysia was accorded The “As Chatime continues to dominate the market in Malaysia BrandLaureate SMEs Best Brand Award for 2014 and it by seeking innovative and quality tea beverages, we wish Chatime’s meteoric rise in the Malaysian market since its was also awarded the Brand of the Year – Tea Category to further reward our Thirstea card members, who have inception in 2010 started with a Brand Promise of serving 2014/2015 by World Branding Awards, London. been our most loyal customers that have contributed to the best quality beverages and a Vision of revolutionizing our success, with a new platform to maximize value their and modernizing the way Malaysians approach tea trAnsforming the stAtus Quo and experience at all our outlets,” said Bryan Loo. drinking. “We strive to bring in next-generation technologies that will transform the status quo to the next level,” aspires After four years, Chatime Malaysia has mapped its Bryan Loo. presence and influence – both locally and globally 106 beStbrandS in F&b - coFFee

Signature branding

for the love of Coffee itself in not using additives or artificial flavourings. Chek Hup Kokoo Hot Chocolate with Hazelnut. The origins of Chek Hup began in 1949, when a young man left China for Malaya, to help relatives run a grocery shop 50 yeArs of gooD Coffee The brand’s R&D team are constantly updating the taste in Rawang. Once the shop was established, he ventured With the aligning and consolidation of brand’s image, of the beverages on offer, including the introduction of to Ipoh and started selling “Funny Mountain” soya bean, look and feel, customers have a familiar voice and family the iconic 3-in-1 Ipoh White Coffee. which is a landmark of Ipoh until today. of colours to identify with. This has improved Chek Hup’s mindshare and market share in 2015. A tAste of the future In 1965, he opened up a rock sugar business and named The brand has redefined its purpose to “We value life by his company Chek Hup. From then onwards to the 1990’s, Celebrating its 50th anniversary last year, the company making products that are at their most natural.” he successfully expanded the business, catering to the appointed its brand ambassador, Siti Adira Suhaimi, or needs of residents in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore. more popularly known as Adira, the winner of Astro’s The company that pioneered the use of microground Akademi Fantasia Season 8. The company gave fans of coffee and uses ealthier lower GI rock sugar has improved From manufacturing various types of rock sugar, the both Chek Hup and Adira a chance to dine with her and customer relationship through increased on-ground company expanded its product line with coffee. Merging enjoy other prizes too. activities. Chek Hup also contributes to the community local culture and flavour with freshly roasted premium by supporting reading programmes through Generasi coffee beans, he pioneered White Coffee’s unique taste The company also organised cooking road shows, Gemilang and donating towards needy causes throughout and aroma. treasure hunts, walk hunts, free coffee tie-ups with major the year. Chek Hup also sponsored the beutification publications, social media activities and promotions project of the Market Lane in Ipoh, the heritage lane lined In the 1990’s the coffee enthusiast and lover made an as well as nationwide sampling for in achieving the by pre-war houses, dating back to 1894. effort to perfect the taste of Ipoh White Coffee, from the milestone. process of selecting fine coffee beans, blending, roasting, Among Chek Hup’s future plans include extending the brewing to using premium rock sugar. He managed to Chek Hup also partnered with Generasi Gemilang to assist partnership reach with Generasi Gemilang, launch a refine and improve every step and saw the launch of children who lack the opportunity of basic education. premium coffee range, increase education of the benefits Chek Hup’s signature Ipoh White Coffee, popular among of healthier, lower GI sugar among customers as well Malaysians from all walks of life. Chek Hup has expanded its brand presence across the as obtaining a Halal certification for the sugar range. globe by introducing its rich, creamy taste and aroma to The company will also dedicate a CSR team to work on As the brand developed, it took into account the need for new taste buds in 15 countries. The brand also offers over quarterly projects, which started off with last year’s Let’s healthier options by consumers. Today, Chek Hup’s coffee a dozen different products and exclusive blends including Fight Dengue project and a Community Cleanup in the has a lower GI, and is also known for its golden ratio of Chek Hup White Coffee Less Sweet, Chek Hup Black first quarter of 2016. Arabica and Robusta coffee beans. The company prides Mandheling Coffee, Chek Hup Teh Tarik with Ginger and

108 beStbrandS in conSumer - Footwear

Signature branding

footPrints of suCCess reAlly feeling the rubber as its strong branding position towards this objective. Founded in 2008 by local entrepreneur, Jack Lim, Fipper Brand loyalty has seen Fipper reaping enormous success. Already, Fipper has successfully made inroads into has come to be synonymous with today’s new generation The brand has gained top-of-the-mind billing, with most Indonesia and this market promises a huge potential to of slippers. Fipper opened its first outlet in Sungei Wang of its customers repeating purchase time and again. be tapped. Plaza, Kuala Lumpur. Today, the brand can be found in With a Tagline that says simply, ‘Feel the Rubber, Fipper over 50 outlets throughout Malaysia. slippers are made of natural rubber. The materials used Jack Lim, the company’s Group CEO, was recently featured are entirely environmentally friendly, recyclable and anti- in Top 10 of Asia Magazine and this has also enhanced the Overseas, Fipper has successfully made ‘footprints’ – from bacterial, not to mention anti-slip and washable. Quality corporate profile of Fipper throughout Asia. Singapore, Brunei, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, is assured, with the manufacturing process done under Korea in Asia – to Australia, Mauritius, Europe and the strict quality control. Acclaim and recognition has further affirmed the brand’s USA. position as the market leader besides boosting its Indeed, Fipper are ideal casual wear for the tropics. Young confidence. No doubt, it has also enabled the brand to This homegrown brand has acquired such popularity and old – be they kids, teens, adults or yuppies – can wear gain further prominence and distinction throughout Asia throughout the country that it is now distributed widely its classic as well as more innovative designs; which now and beyond. in hypermarkets, retail chain outlets, holiday resorts and feature over 20 models. even convenience stores and petrol stations; apart from striDing into the future with ConfiDenCe its own outlets in major malls. winning A footholD in the PubliC’s eye Fipper is fully committed to maintaining its brand position The company has always placed great emphasis on as the leader in the flip-flop footwear segment. As product the nAme for fliP-floPs its Advertising & Promotion (A&P) roadmap, in line branding is always associated with product quality, the Fipper has revolutionized the concept of wearing plain, with its position as the market leader of flip-flops. Its company always strives to ensure that all Fipper products old, boring slippers into a whole new stylish statement. management has allocated a substantial sum of money meet the highest standards of quality in terms of material With an amazing array of attractive design and colour towards A&P expenditure, with the largest portion being and design. Offering fun, function and fashion, Fipper combinations, the brand truly stands out, making great spent on media – ranging from TV, billboard to magazine is looking towards extending its product line from its strides in setting a bold new trend in casual footwear. advertisements. Social media like Facebook is also an present 20 over designs. effective tool to reach out to its customers. Fipper stands out in its stylistic simplicity. Thong straps Since winning the Brand Laureate Award for the footwear connected to the sole. Comfortable to wear, practical and Having gained a strong foothold in the casual footwear category in 2013 and 2014, Fipper has caught the eye of trendy, Fipper flip-flops have steadily crept into the public market, Fipper is now on an expansion phase to penetrate several potential investors and the brand looks poised domain with a slew of colourful offerings, taking a tweak into other parts of Asia. The company is leveraging on The for further expansion. The future looks as bright as the from the popular, yet humble, slippers. BrandLaureate SMEs Best Brands Awards it won as well rainbow colours that the products stand out in.

110 beStbrandS in ServiceS - occupational healthcare & SaFety

Signature branding

going beyonD the CAll of neeD Simultaneously, the Mediviron Group also assisted the consultation and treatment, minor surgery, occupational Mediviron was established in 1984 by YBhg. Datuk Dr. Government and statutory organizations such as SOCSO healthcare and many others. Lim Heng Huat, as the first company in Malaysia to to conduct a series of public seminars and conferences. provide comprehensive occupational health and safety The objectives were to create public awareness and The company’s clever manpower strategy is also critical consultancy services. Since its inception, the Mediviron enhance industrial cooperation on occupational health in the achieving of its corporate objectives – a multiracial Group has expanded rapidly and currently provides and safety issues. staff force, spearheaded by a team of dedicated and services to more than 5000 corporate and industrial motivated doctors who are given the opportunity for clients. On top of that, Dr. Lim represented the Malaysian partnerships of the clinics in the Mediviron Group, as well Employers Federation at the International Labour as ongoing staff training to update and upgrade their As the nation’s pioneer company in the medical industry, Conventions on Asbestos and Man-made Mineral Fibres in level of proficiency. Mediviron was recognized by the Malaysian Government Geneva under the auspices of ILO and WHO. Meanwhile, with the approval to conduct occupational hygiene in 1991, Mediviron was also appointed as the Organizing DestineD to stAy monitoring for airborne lead and conduct medical Secretariat for the Asbestos International Association Mediviron has also carried out various Corporate Social surveillance under the Factories and Machinery (Lead) Conference on Safety in the use of Asbestos, held in Kuala Responsibility (CSR) programs. The group has visited and Regulations 1984. Lumpur. sponsored charity donations to various orphanages and welfare homes; including Rumah Hope and Little Sisters The company is poised to be the leading corporate, Mediviron’s primary policy is to achieve and maintain of the Poor. In addition, Datuk Dr. Lim also performs with occupational and primary healthcare provider in Malaysia excellence and affordability in providing comprehensive his musical band in charity concerts for old folks’ homes, through ethical, effective and affordable practice. healthcare services to the general Malaysian public, religious institutions and social organizations such as Mediviron provides a nationwide network of healthcare as well as its corporate clients in the commercial and Pacesetters. outlets – accessible and affordable to every corporate industrial sectors. This policy is implemented through organization, industry and the general public. the group’s extensive and expanding network of 130 The Mediviron Group’s assistance to the Malaysian clinics – among the largest chains in the country, and Government and statutory organizations, SOCSO, is also housing heAling hAnDs is complemented by other healthcare facilities such as part of its CSR program. The objectives were to create A year after its establishment, the company gained mobile audiometry and spirometry, and occupational public awareness on occupational safety and health rapid recognition in the industrial sector and provided hygiene monitoring. management, noise control, radiation safety, building services to factories and workshops in all eleven states and construction safety and indoor air quality. Free of Peninsular Malaysia. In 1985, the first Klinik Mediviron A number of Klinik Mediviron branches are open 24-hours public seminars on men’s health, heart care and anti- was set up at SEA Park, Petaling Jaya, in response to and are fully equipped with X-ray, Ultrasound and ECG aging were also conducted in collaboration with major demand for further clinical services. Apart from providing facilities. Among the services provided are antenatal pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer and MSD. basic primary healthcare, the clinic also conducted and postnatal care, basic acute and emergency care, medical surveillance and screening programmes. circumcision, medical check-up, general medical 112 beStbrandS in retail - nutritional SupplementS

Signature branding

holistiC wellbeing: heAlthier, insiDe out hair – all in the pursuit of a beautiful, fulfilling life. formulAting the future: imPrinting uPon the Founded by Dr. Jessie Chung in 1999, Natural Health heAlth bionetworK Farm (NHF) is a professional nutritional specialist with entrenCheD brAnD vitAlity: brAnDing beyonD The company’s Bio Nexus certified R&D centre enables it a chain of 70 retail outlets located mostly in shopping NHF believes branding is a necessary element in the to manufacture new product formulations and produce its malls and hypermarkets. Employing 300 staff consisting development of its business. Over the last few years, own active ingredients based on medicinal mushrooms. of qualified nutritionists, outlet assistants, management branding exercises have created trust between the Additionally, NHF also has its own GMP Factory to team and other departmental staff, NHF promotes company’s qualified staff and customers and this has formulate and produce natural ingredient containing healthcare through balanced nutrition intake, nourishing helped set the brand apart from the competition in the nutraceuticals. diet, healthy lifestyle and detoxification. With that in health supplements industry. It also has helped the brand mind, each outlet is operated by at least one qualified to deliver the clear message to customers that NHF will NHF recently launched an exclusive slimming-detox nutritionist who are able to provide comprehensive help to regain health through natural therapies – without programme and a six-month slimming competition for nutritional assistance to customers. harmful side effects. its customers – enabling them to earn money based on each kilogram they lose. The company’s competitive Armed with the Vision to become the premier specialty When it comes to product branding, NHF has showed its edge lies in the group’s professional nutritional retailer of nutritional supplements and organic food in distinction by having its own Bio-Nexus Certified R&D and therapists who provide diet and nutritional consultation the country, the company is recognized for improving the Innovation Center. The company also has its own GMP before recommending optimum nutritional products to health and wellbeing of Malaysians. NHF is on a Mission Factory to formulate and produce nutraceuticals – which consumers. to help people have healthy bodies by delivering quality are made from natural ingredients. nutritional products and services at the best possible For over 20 years, the nutritional supplement specialist prices. NHF’s promotional materials and store designs reflect the has focused on the importance of deep-cell detox to solve natural, healthy image of the brand. The company also numerous chronic diseases and will continue to do so in Presently, NHF operates 70 outlets in seven different has corporate alliances with other industry players such the future. The company has plans to increase its presence countries – including Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, China, as medical centres and health associations to further drive and distribution network in China, where the market size USA, The Philippines and Kurdistan. its products, services and branding to the public. Taking is significantly larger. it one step further, the nutritional supplement specialist The company provides customers with nutritional is a provider of nutritional medicine, offering tertiary In 2016 and beyond, NHF has plans to venture into other consultation, nutritional supplements, organic food, education for students pursuing Certificate, Diploma and segments of business such as Aesthetics, Corporate other healthcare related products as well as organic a Bachelor’s Degree in the field. Wellness and Organic Snacks manufacturing. The health- skincare and beauty products. Over the past 15 years, NHF centric company is also looking at exploring the Halal has passionately and innovatively engaged in producing One of its most successful branding is its Founder and market in the near future. healthy nutritional supplements and resources that Brand Ambassador – Dr. Jessie Chung – a well known support the health and longevity of the body, skin and naturopathic doctor in Malaysia and the region. 114 beStbrandS in ServiceS - beauty & Slimming SolutionS

Signature branding

your PArtner in beAuty & wellness won the recent, The BrandLaureate SMEs Signature and invigorates their skins while the Deluxe Abdominal Feeling drained and tired after a stressful day or week Award , which is only awarded to well established brands Trim & Firm firms up their abs. Since its introduction, is a norm in today’s modern and fast-paced world. The that have successfully stamped their mark in their field response to these programmes have been positive, hence need to relax and rejuvenate oneself becomes all the of expertise. Other awards include The BrandLaureate – Slimming Sanctuary will continue to target the male more important then. At Slimming Sanctuary, the SMEs Chapter Award in 2009 for best brand in Wellness market with more relevant and up to date products. beauty and slimming haven, one can indulge in the most and Slimming Spa, The Global Emerging Organisation in comprehensive and luxury beauty and spa services for Anti-Aging Award ( Professional Weight Management, builDing suCCess on Core vAlues both women and men. Anti-Aging and Slimming Organisation) and the Malaysia Behind the success of Slimming Sanctuary lies its four Spa & Wellness Award 2009 (Best Slimming Centre) main values that embody the essence of the brand; service, Established in Singapore in 1998, Slimming Sanctuary’s technology, value and ambience that are the cornerstone services and products are signature craftsmanship of the signAture treAtment thAt insPires ConfiDenCe of the company’s brand development strategy. highest quality, utilizing the latest European technology. The brand’s signature product is its anti-aging treatment It is an absolute indulgence for those who truly appreciates called Cell Force Clinical Therapy, an award winning Slimming Sanctuary places great effort to ensure that its the finest things in life. product which is made sourced from botanical stem cells staff are professionally trained, have in-depth knowledge and clinically proven for its unique process which deeply of the treatments and products, first class attitude and In Malaysia, Slimming Sanctuary commenced operations exfoliates, revitalizes and energizes every single cell of pride in work to serve its customers. in the year 2000 at its first outlet in Low Yatt Plaza, Kuala the skin to result in youthful looking skin. Other signature Lumpur. It was synonymous with slimming and weight treatments include the Activ7 for body -slimming and Cell Slimming Sanctuary’s commitment to investment in loss management then but through the years, Slimming Force Clinical Therapy/Cell Magnifique for anti- aging research and development and the latest technology Sanctuary has evolved to provide a holistic solution to facial treatment. has positioned the brand at the forefront of the beauty beauty and wellness. and slimming industry and enabled it to attract more With all its products sourced from France, customers customers who are on the constant quest for the best and Today, Slimming Sanctuary has 17 outlets in Malaysia, can rest assure that it gets the best quality products and most effective products and therapies. with a luxurious wellness and beauty spa, Le Sense, services from Slimming Sanctuary. located at the high end retail mall, The Gardens at Mid Customers’ satisfaction is of importance to Slimming Valley Mall. In China, Slimming Sanctuary is present in With men becoming increasingly aware of the need to Sanctuary and it continues to strive to provide them with Hangzhou where the first outlet was opened in 2009. look good and healthy, Slimming Sanctuary introduced an engaging experience by providing premium value for its Reviving Essence Facial and Deluxe Abdominal Trim treatments and products and luxurious and comfortable Slimming Sanctuary is an award winning brand, having and Firm packages for them. The Essence Facial exfoliates ambience at any of their salons.

116 beStbrandS in education - international School

Signature branding

A uniteD worlD At PeACe viA eDuCAtion for students and staff. Armed with the belief that teachers Ipoh International School. Armed with the objective Opening its doors in 1960, Tenby Schools Ipoh was founded need to be updated on educational development in other of bringing the best of both international and national by British expatriates who believed that their children parts of the world, Tenby is the only group of schools education practices, he also wanted it to be accessible to should receive high-quality education following the that offers the internationally-recognized teaching the people of Ipoh – many of whom would not be able to British system. Starting off as an expatriate kindergarten, qualifications programme, International Post-Graduate pay for fees charged by other international schools. it developed into an international school. The school Certificate in Education (PGCEi), to teachers instructing expanded to include a private Malaysian school, Sekolah in all its campuses. The school also established ties with The late Dato’ KK Lim also wanted to get the attention Tenby. In 2007, the Tenby School expanded to include Queen’s University of Belfast (UK), Columbia University of expatriates who wanted to immerse and integrate Penang, and Setia Eco Park in Shah Alam, a year later, (USA) and Charles Darwin University (Australia) with with the local community to join in. Thanks to the mix of before opening in Miri Sarawak and Setia Eco Gardens in regards to staff development programmes. local and expatriate educators, Tenby has been able to Johor in 2011 and 2013 respectively. offer affordable fees to middle-income Malaysian families universAl brAnDing: toP mArKs in eDuCAtion as well as expatriates whose children’s education is not Recognized as one of the leading providers in the K-12 Among its many successes include Tenby International sponsored by employers. private education industry in the country, the Tenby School Ipoh was the first school in the group to offer the Schools focus on values and traditions established in Cambridge International A-Level Programme since 2010, A luminously bright & seCure future their Ipoh School. The school promotes international alongside other curricula on the same campus. The Tenby education group is known to be one of the mindedness through its academic approach; as well more accessible schools when it comes to affordability in as extracurricular programmes for students of all The management and teachers of Tenby Schools go all out a learning environment that includes Care, Delivery and nationalities and cultures. to ensure their campuses meet international standards, Achievement – in fully equipped facilities at the schools. with all their five schools being members of COBIS The educational institution is a member of the ILMU The Tenby School campuses are located in purposed-built, (Council of British International Schools), three of our Education Group Berhad this year, a leading integrated modern facilities that meet the needs of learning and schools – Setia Eco Park, Setia Eco Gardens and Penang education groups in Malaysia, with a diversified portfolio teaching in the 21st Century. Their participation in public are members of the CIS (Council of International Schools) of institutions serving all segments of the K-12 and tertiary relations and community engagement activities have and the Ipoh Campus is accredited by WASC (Western mark. drawn interest from parents and guardians from the five Association of Schools and Colleges). states the schools are located in Malaysia. Tenby will soon be opening up two new campuses, the Tenby Schools have embarked on a unique philosophy in Tenby International School Setia EcoHill in Semenyih For the management of Tenby Schools, human order to stand out from its competitors. It began in 2014, in September 2016 and Tenby International School at development is an important aspect in education – both when the late Dato’ KK Lim took over the operations of Tropicana Aman in 2018.

118 beStbrandS in ServiceS - logiStic SolutionS

Signature branding

home-grown logistiCs solutions ProviDer and thus offering clear value for money, the company’s – enhancing efficiency and driving costs down in their Worldgate is a wholly Malaysian-owned company, processes continually evolve to meet the needs of clients. supply chain. established in 1999 by two young entrepreneurs – Mr. Being a service-driven business, it delivers an unbeatable Ronald Lee and Mr. Danny Chin. attitude to provide the right solutions at the right time Behind the WG brand stands a commitment to providing and the right price. It is the company’s ultimate goal added value in all areas and this is what differentiates A financially solid, viable and dynamic organization, the to make its brand synonymous with quality (safety & it from its competitors. As an innovative organization, company is run by experienced people. Moreover, staff security), affordability, and reliability. Worldgate continues to improve its processes and the ownership guarantees complete dedication to its clients, enhancement of system compliances. It also constantly assuring the highest level of service in international brAnD DifferentiAtion for growth develops talent in an inspiring and conducive environment air/sea freight forwarding and customs brokerage. Its The goal of its brand development strategies is to because its business is aligned with people at its heart. dedicated and hardworking employees have the drive and continually grow recognition of the brand and sales, know-how to assist clients in every aspect of their logistics focusing on brand differentiation to stand out from its Every member of Worldgate has a role in shaping the problems; while providing the services at a competitive competitors. Worldgate conducts regular market surveys WG brand. The company’s philosophy with regard to rate. and assessments of customers and competitors, existing employee relations is linked to the ‘Asian Culture of Trust’ markets and possible future markets before developing where relationships are keys to business success. Hence, Delivering on innovAtive solutions policies, processes and marketing strategies that will lead it is the company’s intention to retain employees and Strong branding has provided Worldgate with a major to greater brand recognition as well as future sales. develop them continuously. edge in today’s increasing competitive markets. It is what differentiates the company from its competitors and it Worldgate provides a flexible, consistent and competent future roADmAP has enormous positive impact on why customers want to suite of solutions which encompasses IT, consulting, To be successful in today’s global marketplace, Worldgate do business with the brand. infrastructure, business process outsourcing and has to be cognizant of changing trends in the logistics enterprise solutions. It provides the full range of business and develop solutions that meet future needs. Worldgate strives for operation excellence by instilling services in supply chain management, warehouse and a lean operating culture and empowering front-line distribution, and value-added activities; besides offering Alongside its Company Vision, ‘Aspiring to be the Leading employees to anticipate and provide appropriate solutions customized solutions and services in all aspects of logistics Supply Chain Provider in the ASEAN Region’, and with to meet customers’ needs.Worldgate’s corporate planning, control, and execution. From point of origin the opening of the economy to global markets through philosophy is simple: it is easy to work with, open, honest, to consumption, the company is committed to turning trade and service liberalization and ASEAN economic responsive and provides quick access to decision makers. challenges into competitive advantages for its clients. integration, Worldgate’s future plan will focus on tapping It strives to meet the challenges (KPIs) of its customers the ASEAN market. It aspires to achieve this through smart with understanding and curiosity. Its strength lies in ConneCtion is Key partnerships with its strong global networks of agents offering solutions born of ideas. As a dynamic and forward-thinking logistic player, and strategic partners. Worldgate provides a personalized approach and works Constantly innovating to provide individual solutions closely with customers to evaluate operational aspects 120 As Brand Drivers, your branding wheels must be in checked, beautifully aligned and balanced to stay on course the brandlaureate to achieve optimum branding. smes master Branding Awards ....Dr KKJohan beStbrandS in health & beauty - SpecialiSt medical centre

maSter awardS

setting the stAnDArDs in CosmetiC surgery, Surgery Clinic of The Year by IMTJ Award which was held liposuction. Its staff members are dedicated, friendly AesthetiC AnD heAlthy Aging CAre in London. and customer-focused, delivering the company’s Brand Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre, or BWMC, is an award- Affordability Promises and working towards making it the leading winning integrated beauty medical centre offering BWMCs competitive pricing on par with local and centre of excellence in premier medical healthcare and cosmetic surgery, aesthetic medicine and healthy aging international standards. It believes in giving high value aesthetics in the region. treatments. The organization has seen a significant to its clients by providing a great brand experience – from year-on-year growth in terms of sales and the number doctors’ expertise, treatment, customer service to follow- Knowledgeable, trusted and caring services are indeed the of patients – both locally and internationally – which it up care. Internationally, its charges are lower than other hallmark of Beverly Wilshire. It is going one step further in attributes to good branding. countries known for cosmetic surgery such as the UK, terms of patient care by offering its boutique but private USA, Australia, Thailand and Singapore. and luxurious beauty medical centres for treatment. Its branding efforts have also helped to cement strategic Comfort & Privacy Clients can expect a team of concierge services to be the partnerships with good partners – enabling BWMC to BWMC believes that a comfortable and luxurious dedicated contact point throughout – from making an expand into various markets quickly and effectively. environment helps clients in having a comfortable appointment to post-care follow-ups. BWMC’s team of Consistent branding has attracted the attention of the recuperation – and therefore puts much thought and care nurses has the knowhow to take care of cosmetic surgery media, which has helped BWMC gain a solid image of into ensuring a calming interior while adhering to the patients and provide all the support clients may need. authority and leadership and highlighted BWMC key requirements of a medical centre. It provides a round-the- attributes of clock nursing assistance and luxurious in-room amenities A new outlet AnD more in the offing and dining. Its centres have won the Malaysian Interior A third full-fledged medical centre has been opened in specialization Design Awards for its beautiful and comfortable interiors. the heart of Johor Bahru at Menara Landmark, headed BWMC remains focused on its niche core specialties – by the renowned A/P Dato’ Dr. David Cheah Sin Heng, concentrating on cosmetic surgery, aesthetic medicine, Centre of exCellenCe with Premium fACilities, Medical Director and Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive healthy aging and dental surgery. Backed by a team of serviCes & exPerienCe and Cosmetic Surgeon. highly skilled surgeons, BWMC performed the world’s BWMC is the first integrated beauty medical centre in first facelift using the TIGE(TM) Matrix, the world’s first Malaysia – pioneering the one-stop centre for head-to-toe Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre Johor Bahru is located long-term 100 per cent absorbable synthetic matrix, in beauty needs. Great care has been placed in ensuring the less than a five-kilometre drive away from the Johor- collaboration with the University of California, San Diego. safety of its clients and the brand adheres to strict health Singapore Immigration Checkpoint and 25 kilometres trustworthiness guidelines and the highest standard of care and safety – from the Senai International Airport. Its accessibility Being in an industry that’s highly influenced by word-of- in line with Ministry of Health guidelines. allows clients, especially from Singapore and Indonesia, mouth, BWMC maintains a sound track record in providing utmost convenience. It also offers a luxurious pick-up world-class standards, established technologies and BWMC’s team of specialists consists of doctors who have and return services between BWMC Johor Bahru and customer-centric services. In fact, the company has won proven track records in providing quality treatment – from Singapore. four awards in a short span of three years – including one Botox fillers, acne and acne scar removal, pigmentation, major international title – 2015 International Cosmetic facelifts to breast augmentation, tummy tucks and 124 beStbrandS in education - legal

maSter awardS

the no. 1 lAw sChool in mAlAysiA ahead of them. The selection of curriculum that meets mission to stamp its stand on the human rights arena and Established in 1991, Brickfields Asia College (BAC) has industry need and deliver an all rounded education, encourage students to carry the legal touch on human established itself as the nation’s largest law school, with a from classroom to practical training have ensured the rights. 70 percent market share in the private education market. success of the brand and its students when they enter the BAC collaborates with over 30 British Universities and for workforce. ACColADes & AChievements Law, works with 16 universities. Students graduate with BAC’s string of achievements include sending more than degrees from established universities such as University reDefining eDuCAtion 7000 CLP graduates into practice since 1991, more than of Hull, University of Reading, Aberystwyth University and Students enrolling in BAC are assured of a holistic all the private institutions in Malaysia put together, many others in the list. approach to education. While Law is its main subject while more than 90 percent of BAC’s law graduates are and specialization, students get to learn other disciplines employed within the first three months after graduation It is the only law school in Malaysia to be accredited such as Finance and Business and be involved in other . by the Malaysian Qualifications Authority to offer the extra curriculum activities the likes of Yoga, Kickboxing In the CLP examinations, BAC has bagged over 400 World University of London International Programmes LLB, the or Fencing. and National Top Students awards, Book Prize Winners, UK Transfer Degree Programme (Law) and the Bachelor of 1st Class and 2nd Uppers over the past three years. Jurisprudence awarded by the Universiti Malaya. Its Master Class Series enable the students to take up courses on Advocacy, Negotiation, Drafting and Opinion Additionally, BAC received the Global Leadership Award BAC’s vision statement is to be the premier and preferred Writing, in a bid to increase their skill sets. Professional for Excellence in the Private Education Sector in 2015, college providing international standards of education courses in Oil & Gas Law, Shipping Law and Islamic honoured with the SME Recognition Award for Social and to be recognized internationally as top provider in Banking & Finance Law, Construction Law amongst others Responsibility Excellence for 2014 and the SME 100 education. Led by its Managing Director, Raja Singham, are available for those who want to pursue these courses. Fast Growing Companies Award. BAC’s excellence in BAC has grown rapidly over the years and established the field of legal education was also recognized as the itself as the Nation’s No.1 Law School in terms of student BAC’s philosophy is to nurture its students and inculcate college received the BrandLaureate’s Best Brand in Legal numbers, excellent results and graduates who are highly them with the right values to lead and be future leaders. Education Award for three consecutive years (2012, 2013 sought after by employers. Through its CSR activities, which the college strongly and 2014). Additionally BAC received the SME Recognition champions, students get to hone their leadership skills Award for Service Excellence (2013) in recognition of BAC endeavors to provide students with an experiential through the various initiatives. It launched the Human its reputation for inspiring excellence as a provider of experience, good campus facilities supported by qualified Rights Day 2014, in collaboration with organisations outstanding services in law and business. lecturers who not only imparts knowledge but inculcate such as United Nation’s Country Team in Malaysia, the good core values to the students and encourage them to Bar Council of Malaysia, SUHAKAM (the Human Rights have the right mindset and discipline to face challenges Commission of Malaysia) and other agencies as part of its

126 beSt brand in agriculture – FertiliSerS

maSter awardS

eArnest ProDuCer of best fertilizers be the No.1 local fertilizer in Malaysia. To achieve this, service and education, as well as advance machineries and AgroHarta Fertilizer Sdn. Bhd. was formed in 2003 by Dato’ the company continues to invest in its brand to capture technology, in order to strengthen its competitiveness Loo Yeng Soon. With headquarters in Setia Alam, Shah market share and to stay competitive, through over 20 and meet customer expectations. Alam, and a high-tech plant located in West Port, Klang, varieties of products that meet the needs of the domestic the company is one of the main players in Malaysia’s market and new fertilizers produced based on customers’ The company’s branding activities have seen it being agricultural industry and contributors to the development needs. featured in magazines, as well as billboard and directory of the agricultural economy. advertisements. AgroHarta also actively pursues on- the mighty KuDAmerAh brAnD imPression ground activities such as technical support seminars, As a progressive company that believes in continuous KudaMerah, which means ‘Red Horse’ in Bahasa Malaysia, sales front talks with customers and more. innovation, AgroHarta is all out to achieve a higher is one the company’s most popular and well known level of performance and relevance to its customers. The brands. Created to fulfil the needs of their customers, Customers are the forefront of AgroHarta’s branding company’s staff frequently communicates to customers the compound fertilizer is made out of high quality and success. Patrons are able to recognize their needs through to educate and inform them about fertilizers and how reliable raw material. The ingredients allow for good AgroHarta’s branding techniques a The company’s sales to use them effectively to increase crop yield and their quality and highly productive crops. team is easily able to introduce new products to end quality. users. While the market is having a difficult time, the The water soluble fertilizer is produced with the latest company’s sales continue to increase. The company’s sustainable growth and well-known technology, using a breakthrough technique from reputation are results of timely and smart investment in Germany. It contains minimum 40 per cent of water- Among the latest developments that AgroHarta has come the areas of customer service, research, staff professional soluble phosphorus, and each granule of fertiliser up with is the new organic product, Bionoka. Manufactured development and high-tech equipment. Both its growth contains all essential and balanced minerals. using new technology, the company believes the trend is and reputation are a reflection of AgroHarta’s commitment heading towards the organic segment and is a boon for to quality products and services. The fertilizer expert AgroHarta’s packing system is fully automatic and fulfils farmers wanting to stabilize their harvest. differentiates itself through its products and the upgrade the requirement from SIRIM Berhad – the country’s of its services while keeping cost affordable for customers premier industrial research and technology organization. The company also has plans to bring in new technology to –satisfying the needs of those in the agricultural field provide better solutions for farmers and to help them save both locally and globally. gAlloPing to the forefront of fertilizer teChnology more costing for their yields. AgroHarta is committed to being innovative and robust The core of AgroHarta’s philosophy is the same as what – so as to be able to meet the needs of the markets in every farmer cares about – the harvest and the quality Malaysia and internationally. The company will continue of the crops. This is reflected in the brand’s Vision – to to invest intelligently and timely in the areas of customer

128 beSt brandS in ServiceS – inSurance brokerage

maSter awardS

your PArtner in insurAnCe solutions makes it a point to provide its clients with professional Miri, Sarawak, in 1988 and 2006 respectively. In 2002, State Insurance Brokers was established in 1973 and advice and solutions that cater to their specific needs. State Insurance Brokers set up a specialized Life Division has successfully build the brand to become a one stop – a first amongst broking companies in Malaysia and insurance solutions provider. It is an exclusive partner State Insurance works with its clients to truly understand established its Marine Division. of Assurex Global, the world’s largest privately held the complexities of their business and provide cost- commercial insurance, risk management and employee effective solutions that allow them to have peace of mind. In terms of premium revenue, which was a few million benefits brokerage group. With the partnership, State Armed with extensive market knowledge, experience and ringgit when it first started, the company’s annual Insurance is able to provide the best of local expertise and innovative solutions, the brand is able to provide the revenue has increased year on year, contributing to global reach of international brokers on six continents. most suitable insurance products to its clients. In terms a positive performance. With each milestone, State of costing, State Insurance Brokers delivers the most Insurance Brokers has emerged even stronger than before Led by Ong Jin Teck, State Insurance’s Managing Director, competitive premium available in the market and this has and is poised to further reinforce its footprints in the it is highly regarded for its experience, capability and in turn enabled its clients to save on their expenditure. country and industry as a whole expertise in providing clients with the best insurance solutions. Its scope of service includes Hull & Machinery Providing customer satisfaction is the cornerstone of enhAnCing footPrints Insurance, Protection & Indemnity, Property & Casualty, the brand’s success. State Insurance’s staff are required Compliance to industry standards, being transparent and Employee Benefits, Engineering Risks and Life Insurance to improve their knowledge, skills and resilience to having high levels of professionalism is important for products for both individuals and groups. work in a highly competitive environment. The brand’s brokers to survive in the Malaysian Insurance Industry. achievements, as well as the high regard it commands in The adherence of State Insurance Brokers to the rules The organization’s portfolio of esteemed clienteles the industry, is due to the commitment and contribution and regulations of the industry has indeed enabled State include public-listed companies, multinationals and of its dedicated staff and the dynamic teamwork that has Insurance to strengthen its position and gain recognition large businesses of various trades and industries such as successfully propelled the company to achieving new internationally. those encompassing Financial Institutions, Automobile milestones in the global insurance industry. Manufacturers, Construction, Hospitals, Shipping, It will continue to move forward and achieve its brand Property Development, Printing, Professionals and others. CreAting milestones vision of being the best brokerage firm in the region State Insurance Brokers has achieved numerous and client’s broker of choice by initiating various brAnD engAgement milestones through the years. Starting off with a staff branding initiatives that will enable it to be ahead of the Insurance coverage is a pre-requisite for individuals and strength of 6, the brand now has a professional and competition. businesses and the complexities of it can be daunting to an qualified workforce of 70. It acquired its own office - ordinary layman. Realising this situation, State Insurance building in 2002 and had set up branches in Penang and

130 Branding, like the odyssey of life itself, is more than just a destination the brandlaureate - it is a wholesome journey to thrive and build a legacy. smes star brand Awards For no brand intends to be short-lived.

....Dr KKJohan beStbrandS in ServiceS - hair artiStry

Star brand

stAr glAmour achievements since it first started its business in a small storey building at Dataran Mentari, Sunway. A Cut Above is Malaysia’s No.1 premier hair salon and shoplot at Wisma Hong Leong. Today, A Cut Above salons has been at the forefront of the industry for the past 37 are found at spanking upmarket malls in the Klang Valley, Students who enroll in the Academy are assured of quality years. Sustaining a business for more than 3 decades and namely, Bangsar Shopping Centre, Bangsar Village, Mid- education, learning the latest techniques in hair styling at the same time holding leadership position is no easy Valley Megamall, Sunway Pyramid Shopping Centre and and hair artistry. The Academy has been honoured as the feat. The Star Brand for the hair industry is reputable and Parkson Pavilion. Each outlet is manned by professionals top hair dressing Academy in Malaysia and is accredited acknowledged for its top notch products and services who are well trained and able to handle all requests made with the Malaysian Government’s Department of Skills and has a list of loyal clientele, that ranges from the by its customers. Development. It was awarded Best Hairdressing Academy professionals, elites, socialites and royalties. by City and Guilds London, an acknowledgement of its As the champion of the industry, A Cut Above expanded its excellent quality education. A wonderful brand experience awaits you as you walk into brand to include Restyle, with a vision to deliver beauty A Cut Above’s salons. The luxurious ambience that befits from inside out. Restyle targets the younger and more the insPirAtionAl forCe of A Cut Above the No.1 brand in Hair Artistry leaves no stones unturned health conscious generation, providing organic solutions Founder, Winnie Loo is synonymous with A Cut Above. as its staff looks to your needs and ensure that you leave to maintaining a healthy scalp and mane. She has spearheaded the brand’s success with her the salon feeling like a beauty queen. innovative ideas and strong leadership. Her commitment Teaming up with Aveda, a global brand that has its to the brand is second to none and she guides and shares Be it a cut, perm or colouring need, A Cut Above is own eco-system of spas and salons, guests at Restyle her knowledge with her staff and the industry at large. committed to providing the best service and that has finds themselves entering a realm of relaxation and Constantly pushing the envelope in terms of creativity and been the key to its success and longevity for the past 37 rejuvenation, pampered by professional world class excellence, Winnie is not only well respected in Malaysia years and the future. service that is second to none. but in the international world of hair artistry.

An insPiring Journey strengthening its founDAtion through eDuCAtion She has been invited to judge at numerous international Starting the business in 1979, Founder and Chief Creative Understanding the importance of nurturing future hair shows that include the prestigious New York Fashion Director, Datin Winnie Loo is the face behind the brand. leaders, A Cut Above started its Hairdressing Academy to Week, where she was part of the backstage crew. Winnie A visionary, Winnie’s leadership has led the brand to train students who are keen to pursue an interest in hair has not only build a star brand in A Cut Above but brought stay ahead of the intense competition in the industry. styling. The Academy, which started in 2004 at the roof fame and glory to Brand Malaysia with her talent and A Cut Above has recorded numerous milestones and top of Sunway Pyramid Mall is now housed in its own 3 leadership.

134 beStbrandS in ServiceS - FireFighting SolutionS

Star brand

one house, one fire extinguisher the Vision to become the leading household brand in This year, Fire Fighter was one of the few companies Incorporated in 1974, Fire Fighter Industry Sdn. Bhd. providing a total solution for all fire fighting requirements selected by SIRIM under the United Nation Environment has grown from sole proprietorship to a private limited in Malaysia, its objective is reflected in the Tagline – One Programme (UNEP) to create greenery processes in its company. Starting with a workforce of five, the company House, One Fire Extinguisher. manufacturing activities – a responsibility the company now has over 120 staff. The company offers products adheres to readily. and services covering a full spectrum of activities – from Fire Fighter is also the largest company conducting the manufacturing, design, supply and installation to repair, servicing of fire extinguishers in compliance with the Fire greener AlternAtives in the future maintenance of fire protection systems, fire suppression Fighting (Bomba) Regulations across Malaysia. Fire Fighter is the market leader in the industry of fire system and equipments. prevention & protection and branding has helped the Putting out fires & genuinely sAving lives company gain recognition and trust from their clients Located along the Federal Highway in Petaling Jaya, Fire Fighter’s reputation among its customers was earned and customers. Thanks to its good track record in Fire Fighter leads the fire safety and protection industry by delivering quality, using quality products and providing delivering products and services, many customers have in Malaysia. With the Mission to protect its clients from excellent service to fulfil all customers’ fire fighting and recommended the fire fighting experts to others. Their incidents of fire, the company is embracing change in protection needs. Such immaculate business ethics have ISO certifications also create brand recognition in their technology and its overall business landscape. also spearheaded the company’s growth in the industry. customer’s minds. Among its many milestones include its successful venture The fire fighting equipment specialist won the right to in to manufacturing of portable fire extinguishers in This year, the company collaborated with Panasonic – be the distributor of well-known brands such as Ansul 1996. In 2001, Fire Fighter was awarded the prestigious which chose Fire Fighter’s Fire Extinguishers as a gift set (USA), Siemens (Germany), NN100 (Japan) and Scotch ISO 9002:1994, Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance – in for its own customers purchasing air-conditioner EcoNavi Mist (UK). It is the first and only fire fighting company recognition of its high manufacturing standard of portable and Inverter units in the home segments. that has achieved the prestigious Lloyd’s Register Quality fire extinguishers. Assurance for a full scope of ISO 9001:2008 Quality The Green Building Index initiative by the government to Management System for ‘Manufacture and Servicing of Through its Quality Policy, the manufacturing unit has promote green awareness among developers has seen Portable Fire Extinguishers (Dry Powder & CO2), Servicing, successfully incorporated a series of quality controls to a new trend emerge in the market. This trend will drive Installation and Maintenance of Fire Protection Systems’. ensure zero-defect products. Both the production and greener alternatives for the company’s fire protection manufacturing processes are ISO 9001:2008 certified. The products and systems. Thus Fire Fighter will continue to Fire Fighter is always ready to be the first to fight and certification acknowledges that Fire Fighter’s stringent upgrade its technology astride international counterparts serve as the most effective line of defence and protection processes are used and adhered to when manufacturing – such as Japan and Germany – to meet these market against potentially harmful disasters. Armed with quality fire fighting equipment. trends.

136 beStbrandS in Floor coveringS - laminate Flooring

Star brand

the better floorCoverings solution ProviDer An environmentally conscious establishment, Inovar is Inovar is expanding its practices to IBBM, known as In With headquarters in Petaling Jaya, Inovar Malaysia is a also committed to using sustainable resources through its Builder Business Module. This business module will assist pioneer in Asia in the laminating floor industry. Founded raw materials so as to minimize the long-term impact of those who want to earn more and also those who do not in 1996, the company has a fully equipped factory utilizing the environment. The Malaysian-made brand with global like to be attached to a company. Since many people the latest German technology in its 6.07 hectare land in recognition also believes that every flooring installation have multiple jobs these days, the company is giving Batang Bejuntai, Selangor. is a long-term investment which every homeowner will the opportunity to all – particularly real estate agents, be proud of. insurance agents, students and homemakers to earn State-of-the-art equipment, operated by dedicated and more by registering with them with minimal fees and well-trained staff, has elevated the brand in the realm A lAminAting suCCess starting their own business with a trusted brand. of excellence. Inovar is further supported by a strong The award-winning company has come a long way in management team with 25 years’ experience in the producing high-density wood fibreboard for laminate innovAting for the future industry who is committed to Excellence, Quality, Product flooring since its factory was established. It has the Currently, Inovar is the only manufacturer in Malaysia Reliability and the Highest Possible Standards. annual capacity of producing 4.5 million square metres of who provides anti-bacterial flooring, called Nano Shield. laminated flooring – which is exported across the world to It helps kill germs and bacteria in ‘nano’ particles without Inovar has successfully created its own path to be the more than 40 countries. needing to do anything else. Households with babies, leader in manufacturing super water-resistant laminate young kids and the older generation will also be at ease flooring. Today, the company operates in nine different In a report published by the Yano Research Institute of knowing that their loved ones will not be harmed by countries through its branches in South East Asia, Japan in August 2010, the flooring manufacturer was bacteria. Australia, Taiwan and India. The flooring specialist named the number one brand in Japan by market share created history as the first company to develop the Super in the previous year. Inovar believes that to stay in any industry, the business E ‘O’ series of laminate flooring for the Japanese market. has to keep being innovative and be one step ahead of This year, Inovar has been heard on HotFM and FlyFM others. Whether with products or advertising and brand Practising qualities of Hard Work, Dedication and consistently. Thus, its brand awareness has increased itself, Inovar will always aim to bring new products that Diligence with partnerships in the market, Inovar has and expanded throughout the year. Inovar also believes could be the solution to any floor problems or issue. met stringent demands of discerning home owners. in visibility of branding through billboards, newspapers, Supported by a group of financially sound investors, magazines and newsletters. The staff goes all out to In 2016, the brand’s centre of attention will be to continue the management believes it can move the market to a connect with customers – be it home owners, developers to focus on providing the best floor covering solutions for higher level of innovative products – keeping in mind the or architects. For Inovar, it is consistency that drives them people from all walks of life. changing tastes and preferences of customers. to achieve the extra mile.

138 beStbrandS in conSumer - water heater

Star brand

the Pioneer in sAfe & high QuAlity wAter heAter has expanded to over 8 other branches in Malaysia AwArD winning brAnD Established in 1983, Joven’s core business is the located in Melaka, Ipoh, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kelantan, Joven began competing in various categories for its brand manufacturing of instant water heater for both single Kuantan, Sabah and Sarawak. name and manufacturing standards. In the year 2002, the and multi point shower system, water purifier and shower brand was certified by the Water Quality Association and filter. Over the last 30 years since its very first model, leADer in innovAtive home ProDuCts was awarded ISO 9001 Mark for its quality management the company is now the market leader in storage water The slogan, ‘Bringing Innovation Home’ is conceived from system in manufacturing. Following that, in 2005 Joven heaters in Malaysia. It owns a factory of 118,000 Sq ft. the culture that has been practiced within the Joven brand was honoured with the Malaysia Superbrands Award employing over 100 staffs and have a production capacity since the beginning - a culture that strives for innovation for its recognition of its brand name among Malaysian of over 150,000 pieces a year. with Joven made products, all for the benefit of its users. consumers. The brand was awarded the Brand Excellence Award 2009, Special Award for Innovative Design 2009, Today, Joven has grown from strength to strength with Since the very first day, innovation has been identified as Industrial Excellence Award 2009 by MITI and the the focus on manufacturing good quality products with the main driver for Joven’s success and future. Innovation Malaysian Good Design Mark by the Malaysian Design innovative features that will benefit every home. Its storage is not only a standard practice but a corporate culture. Council back in 2009 and 2000. heaters comes equipped with many safety features such Continuous research and development has brought about as Triple Safety System together with patented universal several innovations, meeting safety standards and gaining globAl brAnDing Mounting Ring Bracket for horizontal Right, Left, or top market recognition from various parties and winners of Over the years, Joven has gained much recognition and positioning. All these products are tested and approved various awards. has no intention of pausing. The company constantly by safety and standards authorities before reaching to strive to be innovative by diversifying and developing end consumers. Its continuous research and development The brand’s positioning is one that stands for innovation products to meet the needs of consumer lifestyle and ensures good quality standards and only the finest quality which means Joven will constantly innovate its product by needs as well as to expand its market to a larger scale in materials are used in production. using the latest of technologies and precise expertise. To South East Asia. ensure the future success, in line with Joven’s corporate Joven mArKeting mission, the brand will continue to provide customers As the leading manufacturer for instant water heater, Joven Marketing is a subsidiary of Joven Electric Co. Sdn. with high quality and innovative products through its Joven has built its success through making good quality, Bhd. and being the sole distributor of Joven in Malaysia, commitments of prioritizing customer needs as it’s reliable and safe water heaters and providing good its core business is the marketing of Joven’s Instant Water basis of research and developments and ensuring good after sales service to its customers as well as constant Heater for single point shower systems, Storage water customer service support. Through the commitments of innovation to stay ahead. After years of hardship and heater for multipoint shower systems, Water purifier the Joven family, business partners and suppliers, the commitment, more than a million household across Asia and Shower filter. Joven Marketing started operations in company aims to be the continuous preferred brand in are now installed with Joven instant water heaters. 1997 with a small office and a number of 20 staff mostly home appliances. concentrated in the Klang Valley. Ever since then, Joven 140 beStbrandS in FaShion - premium & beSpoke SuiteS

Star brand

the Premier besPoKe serviCe like Chef Wan, sportsmen such as Datuk Lee Chong Wei, hopes to not only bring greater awareness to its new Trained under some of the most skillful masters and and other uber socialites, Lord’s Tailor has measured, cut product offerings, but also to establish its company as a renowned tailors of the day in London’s Tailor & Cutter, and fitted them all. leading fashion house in Malaysia. Robert Loh first established LORD’s Tailor back in the 1970’s as Groovy Apparel. The brand is renowned for unremitting growing the brAnD brAnD exPAnsion attention given to the perfection of an exquisite cut, After being urged by Tun Dr. Mahathir to push the brand Looking beyond, in order to manage the expansion of the quality of fabrics and comfort. After moving up-market in to go international along with Dato’ Jimmy Choo’s company, processes are in place to increase efficiency by the early 1980’s, Loh then changed the name to suit their encouragement to expand the brand, the company set hiring more staff and implementing a new ERP system reputation best as a premier bespoke tailor that provides out its Vision to become a fashion house and not to be which will improve the tracking of orders and production high quality workmanship. known just as a tailoring establishment. After years of costs. planning, it all came to pass in 2012 when the brand set As the Founder and master cutter of Lord’s Tailor, up its own manufacturing arm; and in 2013, established LORD’s has also established a new manufacturing arm that Loh understands that a well-cut suit is one of the best its flagship store in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. In its 40th year is able to produce on a larger scale using line-production investments in fashion a man can have. He skillfully of establishment, Lord’s Tailor is proud of its heritage and methodology. This new manufacturing department approaches each fabric using his extensive knowledge of the premier bespoke service that is known to be the best consists of two production teams – specializing in shirts physics and engineering to accurately cut the cloth to the in Malaysia. and pants. This enables LORD’s to fabricate all its products exacting measurements of the individual he is working in Malaysia and to monitor the quality closely. on, thus being able to keep the material proportionally At LORD’s, team effort is pivotal – the family-run business flattering to the entire body no matter the shape. has expanded in the recent years to include Olivia Loh, Customarily evolving with the times, LORD’s will continue Wearing a piece of clothing made by Lord’s Tailor gives Wilkins Leung and Vicky Loh, who are in charge of retail, to focus on bringing greater awareness to its ready- its customers the confidence to feel and look their best. operations and production, respectively. This growth to-wear collection in the coming year to touch a wider in the management team is crucial to the expansion client network. The classy brand targets to establish two For almost four decades, Lord’s Tailor has been providing strategy of the business as each individual is able to focus more retail stores featuring its expedient products within bespoke tailoring services to the crème de la crème on developing one aspect of the trade. the next years; and in five years’ time hopes to make its of Malaysia – be it heads of government such as Tun products available internationally, touching Indonesia, Dr Mahathir, world famous singers such as Dato’ Siti LORD’s has also boosted its marketing activities to include Singapore and China. Nurhaliza, internationally famous designers such as Dato’ a series of successful fashion shows to showcase its Jimmy Choo, actors like Mel Gibson, global personalities collection to the public. Through this initiative, the brand

142 beStbrandS in education - pre-School education excellence

Star brand

emPowering young minDs their Link & Think methodology – an interconnected and subject at Q-dees also reinforces their memory and Established in the year 1995, the founding Q-dees interrelated knowledge that develops into advanced understanding while developing their logical reasoning management team comprised of a group of professionals learning. skills. with different expertise, from various academic backgrounds, IT and entrepreneurship skills, with Core eDuCAtion During the formAtive yeArs Q-dees’s Gymflex programme offers students a chance one common quality – a passion for education. Their Q-dees has become a brand name that parents trust to learn about teamwork and improve their body objective was to revolutionize early childhood education when it comes providing wholesome education for their coordination, fine and gross motor skills through fun by developing holistic yet fun-filled programmes. These children. Today, it is known as the best education centre exercises, physical activities and team centric games. programmes are effective in stimulating a healthy sense for childhood education. The company continues to strive of curiosity, a passion for learning as well as installing to ensure that only the best is delivered. This is achieved The centre’s focus on holistic development is reflected by moral values. by the staff through engaging in programmes that meet the Love to Life progamme – which ensures that children both international standards of education while nurturing are instilled with qualities of loving and caring for others, Today Q-dees has 160 centres in Malaysia, 2 centres in values that empower lifelong education. being responsible individuals while being mindful of Indonesia and 2 in Singapore. The educational centre preserving the environment. is responsible for effectively empowering over 200,000 One of the five different elements of Q-dees successful students through its three quality programmes, which learning methods is the spotlight of languages. At reseArChing for A better future use the latest teaching methods and technology. the centre, preschoolers are taught English, Bahasa As part of its initiative to stay ahead of other competitors in Malaysia, and Mandarin thematically and phonetically the early childhood education industry, Q-dees established Dedicated in their efforts to shape young minds through – encouraging them to expand vocabulary. Students are an R&D centre in Cyberjaya. A team of professionals at the the Fliptec@Q™, Beamind and Q-dees Love to Life™, able to read, write, listen and speak the three languages centre is responsible for maintaining the relevance and children who join the programmes not just learn, but naturally – thus confident in expressing themselves in the high standards of the programmes at there. learn with joy. Armed with the Vision to be the leader different environments they encounter. in the child development industry through product This is done through the research of new techniques, innovation, service and operational excellence, it is on a Maths is made simple and fun to learn at Q-dees with the developing class material and adopting and integrating Mission to create a total learning environment which will Hands-on Mind-on Methodology. Using the centre’s own the latest in information and communications technology provide a good foundation for the children’s future in the Maths Board, children are able to count efficiently and (ICT) to be ‘class-ready’. era of globalization. think logically through experiments to ignite curiosity and passion in the otherwise difficult subject. Q-dees is currently conducting a rebranding exercise to The education centre believes that children have limitless position its different product ranges into one universal learning; and its aim is to unlock the potential of each The Arts and Craft programme sees preschoolers learning brand. The company aims to strengthen the Q-dees brand student – moulding them into confident, creative and the art of drawing, rendering and three-dimensional name and has plans to expand the educational model caring individuals through technology, and particularly modeling through daily themed activities. The creative into international markets such as Australia and the US. 144 beStbrandS in F&b - SandwicheS

Star brand

subwAy’s here to stAy! subwAy – the mAlAysiAn wAy also propelled the brand into something that was growing With Malaysians living a fast paced lifestyle, the need Ampang Point was the first Subway restaurant to open in the hearts and minds of discerning customers. to have food that is easily available has led to the in 1999. Within the next two years, 11 restaurants had establishment of many Quick Service Restaurants. While opened in Malaysia, but growth was short-lived. By 2002, ACColADes AnD AwArDs these restaurants may provide fast food, are they of the number of restaurants rapidly dwindled back to just They won numerous awards, a testimony of Subway’s quality and healthy by standards? one restaurant. success and the couple’s commitment to the brand. In 2011, Subway was awarded The BrandLaureate – SMEs Enter Subway in 1999 which provided a healthier In December 2004, Dato’ Vincent Choo and his wife, Datin BestBrands Awards for the Best Brand in Food & Beverages alternative for fast food. Known for its fresh and Cynthia Cheong were appointed as Development Agents. category for 2011, the SMEs Signature Award in 2012, the wholesome made to order sandwiches, Subway is the With their commitment to the brand, they went against SMEs Master Brand Award in 2013 and the Star Brand leader in sandwich category with more than 140 Subway all odds and with well-structured strategies and resilience Award in 2014. Dato Vincent Choo also bagged The restaurants in the Klang Valley alone and 200 plus turned around the Subway brand. BrandLaureate SMEs BrandLeadership Award 2014 with restaurants in Malaysia. The popularity of the brand has the exclusive title of Food & Beverage Man of the Year. made Subway the preferred choice for many Malaysians Six years later, Subway had 50 restaurants in Malaysia, for sandwiches. an achievement to be reckoned with. The couple’s In 2013, they won the Golden Eagle Award Malaysia efforts was gaining ground and bringing the brand to 100 Excellent Entreprises, Sin Chew Business Excellence the origins of subwAy an unprecedented strength and presence. The landmark Award and a Bronze Award in the fastfood category at the In August 1965, Fred DeLuca, opened his first submarine 50th restaurant was opened at Giant Hypermart in Shah Putra Brand Awards 2014- The People’s Choice. sandwich shop in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He did this Alam. mainly to support his education and obtained a loan of In 2015, they won the McMillan Woods Global Awards $1,000 from his friend, Dr. Peter Buck to start the business. Ambitious and passionate, the success inspired them to 2015- Master Class Awards and MRCA Crown Awards 2015 They became partners in this venture that would change work harder to achieve Subway’s goal. Their work did not – Outstanding National Growth. the landscape of the fast food industry. go unnoticed in Subway Worldwide as they were awarded Development Agent of the year in 2008, 2010 and 2012. “Judging from the encouraging response and the increase By 1974, they owned and operated 16 submarine in number of people who prefer fresh nutritious food, sandwich restaurants throughout Connecticut. To achieve Dato’ Vincent Choo and Datin Cynthia Cheong , together we’re looking to open even more restaurants in various their goal of 32-restaurants, they started to franchise with the Northern and Southern team took the country locations soon. We’re are more confident than ever of our which catapulted the Subway brand into what it is today. by storm in 2012 when Subway Malaysia officially opened aggressive growth and at the rate we are going, Subway Subway is now the world’s largest submarine sandwich the 100th restaurant in Space U8 Mall in Bukit Jelutong. Malaysia can expect to reach 250 restaurants very soon,” chain with more than 44,000 restaurant locations in 110 Not only did they manage to make Subway restaurant a said Dato’ Vincent Choo. countries. common sight mainly in the Klang Valley, but they had 146 Publisher Dr KKJohan

Management YM Senator Datuk Raja Ropiaah Binti Raja Abdullah

Editor in Chief Chew Bee Peng

Editorial Team Ida Ibrahim Ian Gregory Nur’Ain MC Grow your brand beyond the norm Nurilya Anis Rahim Gerald Chuah and Creative Manager Ibtisam Basri succinctly usher in a new dimension Assistant Creative Manager Mohd Shahril Hassan

Senior Creative Designer to Mohd Zaidi Yusof

Multimedia Designer build your brand network Zulhelmi Yarabi Project Manager ....Dr KKJohan Lau Swee Ching

Secretariat Kalwant Kaur

The BrandLaureate - SMEs BestBrands™ Awards 2014 Eight Edition: November 2015

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