THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 SOBA 2020 Honouring deserving companies

The 11th edition of Outstanding Business Awards programme concluded at its spectacular Gala Night finale, unveiling the contributions of ’s top non-listed companies of the year.

ARFF yourASEAN connection 2 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 SOBA 2020 WINNERS TOP OF THE CLASS AWARDS (Above RM25mil turnover) CategoryCType of Awards ompanies Lauding Best in Marketing Platinum Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd Gold Julie’s Manufacturing Sdn Bhd Silver Apple Vacations Sdn Bhd Best Brand Platinum Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd Gold Julie’s Manufacturing Sdn Bhd Silver redONE Network Sdn Bhd Best in CSR Platinum TFP Retail Sdn Bhd Gold Veritas Architects Sdn Bhd excellence Silver Linaco Manufacturing (M) Sdn Bhd Best Green Platinum SKVE Holdings Sdn Bhd Initiative Gold SJ Varied Sdn Bhd Silver Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd Best Employer Platinum Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd Gold Julie’s Manufacturing Sdn Bhd Silver Empire Sushi Group Sdn Bhd in business Best Innovation Platinum Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd Gold PKSJ Fertilizers Sdn Bhd Silver Empire Sushi Group Sdn Bhd Best Use of Platinum Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd SOBA 2020 celebrates the spirit Technology Gold Sea Gamer Mall Sdn Bhd Silver Fire Fighter Industry Sdn Bhd Best in Retail Platinum Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd of innovation and perseverance Gold TFP Retail Sdn Bhd Silver Empire Sushi Group Sdn Bhd Best in Customer Platinum Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd THE nation’s leading SMEs prove their met- Service Gold Sea Gamer Mall Sdn Bhd tle as they achieve another milestone to be Silver Vista Laser Eye Center Sdn Bhd proud of: recognition as a Star Outstanding OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS (Above RM25mil turnover) Business Awards (SOBA) winner. In addition to taking home the signature Male Entrepreneur of the Year Par Excellence Achievement Lim Kim Heng, Group Chairman, Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd SOBA trophies, winning at the SOBA 2020 Outstanding Achievement Tan Sri Datuk Seri Gan Yu Chai, Director, Gala Night also marks their entry into the Platinum Victory Holdings Sdn Bhd ranks of successful SOBA alumni, some of Meritorious Achievement Saw Teck Hui, Managing Director, UMMI Surgical Sdn Bhd which have grown by leaps and bounds Female Entrepreneur of the Year since their respective wins. Par Excellence Achievement Lee Ling Ling, Managing Director, Medi-Life (M) Sdn Bhd Since its inception in 2010, SOBA has shone Its founder and director Dr Chong Tze Outstanding Achievement Phang Sher Ren, Founder, Star Glory Asia (M) Sdn Bhd the spotlight on more than 300 deserving Sheng – who previously won the Par Meritorious Achievement Michelle Hah Mei Kian, Executive Director, local non-listed companies that have demon- Excellence Achievement award under the Fire Fighter Industry Sdn Bhd strated business excellence in their respective Young Entrepreneur of the Year category (up Young Entrepreneur of the Year industries. Among the number includes to RM25mil turnover) during SOBA 2019 – Outstanding Achievement Nicole Lim Xui Jhi, Chief Executive Officer, organisations that have listed on Bursa emerged as the winner of the Meritorious Empire Sushi Group Sdn Bhd Malaysia, such as MyNews Holdings Bhd, Achievement award under the Male Malaysian Business of the Year Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd Serba Dinamik Bhd and Securemetric Bhd. Entrepreneur of the Year category (up to TOP OF THE CLASS AWARDS (Up to RM25mil turnover) For SOBA 2020, emerging as the best of the RM25mil annual turnover) for SOBA 2020. best within the local non-listed business “This is our second time participating in CategoryCType of Awards ompanies community were the Malaysian Business of SOBA. We contested in four categories and Best in Platinum Big Onion Food Caterer Sdn Bhd the Year award winners, namely Senheng we won in all four, and we’re also lucky to Marketing Gold Senz Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd Silver Art International Holding Sdn Bhd Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd for the above RM25mil be awarded the Malaysian Business of the Best Brand Platinum Dragon Taste Seafood Wholesale & Retail Sdn Bhd annual turnover tier and Klinik Dr Chong Year for the up to RM25mil tier. Gold Klinik Dr Chong Sdn Bhd Sdn Bhd for the up to RM25mil annual “We are very happy and the whole team is Silver Doremi Services & Rental Sdn Bhd turnover tier. feeling very motivated (because of the) rec- Meritorious Achievement Big Onion Food Caterer Sdn Bhd ognition of our company,” said Dr Chong, Wellous Sdn Bhd relaying his thanks to his team in contribut- Property Hub Sdn Bhd Serving as inspiration Best in CSR Platinum M Summit Global Sdn Bhd ing to the company’s growth. Gold Encomas Sdn Bhd Senheng swept away the competition as Noting that as an entrepreneur and as a Silver WYNKIDS Education Group it secured a total of 10 awards under the tier company in the healthcare sector, both him Meritorious Achievement Health4U Solutions Sdn Bhd it was competing in, including platinum and eponymous clinic has to work hard to Best Green Platinum HZ Green Pulp Sdn Bhd for Best in Marketing, Best Brand, Best not only gain profit, but also contribute and Initiative Gold MM Century Sdn Bhd Silver Solid Horizon Sdn Bhd Employer, Best Innovation, Best Use of give back to society. Best Platinum FR Freight Services Sdn Bhd Technology and Best in Retail, Best in He further said that for Klinik Dr Chong, Employer Gold WYNKIDS Education Group Customer Service, as well as silver for Best the barometer should be measured based on Silver KYY Empire Sdn Bhd Green Initiative. how many patients the clinic has helped and Best Platinum Innov8tif Solutions Sdn Bhd Further, its group chairman Lim Kim how many customers it has served, instead Innovation Gold RPD Sdn Bhd Silver DF Automation & Robotics Sdn Bhd Heng also won the Par Excellence of just focusing on the numbers and figures Meritorious Achievement Robopreneur Sdn Bhd Achievement under the Male Entrepreneur of the revenue it generates. Inaris Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd of the Year category (above RM25mil annual On the clinic’s future plans, he said, “We In-Source Options Sdn Bhd turnover). hope can expand to more points in Malaysia Best Use of Platinum GPRO Global Sdn Bhd It is not the first time the homegrown and hopefully expand overseas one day.” Technology Gold Klinik Dr Chong Sdn Bhd electronics retail chain has participated in Silver Genesis IVF & Women’s Specialist Centre Meritorious Achievement Oasis Swiss Sdn Bhd SOBA, as it previously won seven awards Transforming with the times Best in Retail Platinum More Design Group Sdn Bhd under the same tier in SOBA 2018. Gold Illegear Sdn Bhd “It’s not really a big surprise. We were Gracing the Gala Night were International Silver Ezzybucks Sdn Bhd expecting this result. Firstly, we have Trade and Industry (Miti) Minister Datuk Best in Platinum Illegear Sdn Bhd transformed to be fully digitalised. Seri Azmin Ali, alongside Star Media Customer Gold Senz Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd Service Silver Klinik Dr Chong Sdn Bhd “Secondly, we embarked on new business Group Bhd (SMG) director Datuk Dr Mohd solutions and new retail, which is very dif- Aminuddin Mohd Rouse, group chief OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS (Up to RM25mil turnover) ferent from the old retail. That gave us the executive officer Alex Yeow, chief content Male Entrepreneur of the Year confidence coming into SOBA this year. officer Esther Ng and chief business officer Par Excellence Achievement Raymond Tea Chin Keong, Managing Director, Dragon Taste “Besides introducing the new business Lydia Wang. Seafood Wholesale & Retail Sdn Bhd solutions, we were also very innovative Held on March 17 at One World Hotel, Outstanding Achievement Lim Kok Yong, Founder & CEO, KYY Empire Sdn Bhd , the prestigious night was also Meritorious Achievement James Yeoh, Managing Director, Solid Horizon Sdn Bhd and many other factors, in terms of using Dr Chong Tze Sheng, Director, Klinik Dr Chong Sdn Bhd technology,” said Lim. attended by Digi chief business officer Ernest Yuen Lup Boon, Managing Director, On advice to SMEs, which account for the Eugene Teh, PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd Genesis Spectrum Sdn Bhd bulk of Malaysia’s employment, Lim stressed group chief executive and managing director Female Entrepreneur of the Year that smaller businesses that have yet to Datuk Michael Tio, RHB Bank Bhd group Par Excellence Achievement Lim Ee Huang, Managing Director / Chief Executive embrace technology must take their first business and transaction banking head Officer, DOREMi Services & Rental Sdn Bhd steps towards digital transformation. Jeffrey Ng, Malaysia External Trade Outstanding Achievement Leong Hong Yin, Founder & Managing Director, He cited Senheng’s experience over the Development Corporation (Matrade) CEO Senz Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd last 30 years as case in point, as the company Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, as well as Meritorious Achievement Leong Mei Ling, Managing Director, Swissen Trading & Transport Sdn Bhd has transformed six times since its inception Credit Guarantee Corp Malaysia Bhd (CGC) Ng Mooi Chin, Founder & Chief of Imagination Officer, to reach the heights of success it now enjoys. president and CEO Datuk Mohd Zamree Above Creative Events (M) Sdn Bhd He added, “We transformed from very tra- Mohd Ishak. Datuk Dr Inderjit Kaur A/P Gurbakhes Singh, ditional retail in one shop to more than 100 Marking the end of the 2020 awards Managing Director, Inder Aesthetics Sdn Bhd shops today. We have embarked on new programme, the Gala Night saw the local Young Entrepreneur of the Year seamless retail solutions. That makes our business community rise to the occasion to Par Excellence Achievement Yong Sin Yee, Managing Director, Morane Global Sdn Bhd business model very different and we hope honour the entrepreneurial spirit in support Outstanding Achievement Chin Jiun How, Managing Director, Illegear Sdn Bhd to inspire other companies to also transform. of business excellence – effectively heralding Meritorious Achievement Dr Darren Gouk, Chief Executive Officer, My Aone Learning Sdn Bhd Frank Wong, Managing Director, More Design Group Sdn Bhd They must get out of their comfort zone and the year to come and firmly closing the door Poshyanganapathy Manikam, Managing Director, embark on digital transformation.” on 2020. KM Vet Pharm Sdn Bhd SOBA 2020 is organised by SMG with Digi, Malaysian Business of the Year Klinik Dr Chong Sdn Bhd Giving back to society PKT Logistics Group and RHB as main RISING STAR sponsors, CGC as co-sponsor and Matrade CategoryCompanies Separately, Klinik Dr Chong Sdn Bhd won as official trade promotion partner. five awards in the up to RM25mil annual It is endorsed by Miti, supported by Bursa Grand Winner A1 Globe Sdn Bhd Special Mention Alias Innovation Sdn Bhd turnover tier. Aside from the Malaysian Malaysia and audited by BDO with dimsum, E Health Sdn Bhd Business of the Year, it was awarded gold 988 and as official media partners. MYS Ultron Sdn Bhd for Best Brand and Best Use of Technology, The Olive Tree Natural Skincare Sdn Bhd as well as silver for Best in Customer Service. > TURN TO PAGE 8 Vanzo Asia Sdn Bhd THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 3 4 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, Monday 19 April 2021 Digitalisation saves the day for restaurant SINCE the Covid-19 pandemic hit digitally broadcast SMS in bulk, and the movement control order D igi Business helps -based Hong La Jiao go digital instantly connecting every custom- was implemented more than a er through mobile marketing. year ago in March 2020 (MCO 1.0), At the same time, he also opted small and medium enterprise for a Go Digi Mobile Postpaid (SME) associations have called and WiFi plan to strengthen attention to the high number of the connectivity in his shop, which smaller businesses shuttering their he said has made all the difference. doors for good. As a result, Chong saw a 50% Official figures from a Ministry increase in sales for Hong La Jiao, of Entrepreneur Development and with the added benefit of doubling Cooperatives report corroborates employee efficiency and customer such findings, noting that over satisfaction. 30,000 SMEs have folded since “Digi Business also made it very MCO 1.0, with among the most easy to make the Penjana SME affected industries being the grant claim. I merely provided the service industry, particularly for relevant paperwork and the rest food and beverage (F&B), as well was taken care of. The grant as hospitality and tourism. money, combined with the savings During the MCO period, dining from Digi, was a big help. out – one of Malaysia’s most popu- “Taking the business to the lar and beloved social activities – digital level was the best thing I was halted for weeks at a stretch, I t was digitalisation that helped could have done, especially during burdening food establishments the brand, which has three Hong La Jiao is a steamboat these trying times. scattered across the nation as Chong said going digital saved his restaurants in Penang and restaurant based in Penang, “I would encourage all SMEs to their income took a stern beating. business during the movement another in Kuala Lumpur, which simplified and streamlined consider digitalising – charting With overhead costs still control order period. maintain business continuity. its business operations by your company’s growth is so much looming over their heads and cash leveraging digital tools and easier,” he remarked. reserves running thin, many SMEs tivity on their premises, let alone maintain business continuity solutions provided by Digi Digi Business helps simplify found it was necessary to pivot or an online menu or ordering sys- through offering delivery. Business. and streamline business operations perish, choosing to roll out delivery tem, with some even lacking an “We knew that delivery was the by enabling businesses to leverage to make ends meet and generate online or social media presence. way to go. However, we also knew suited his needs and budget. digital tools and solutions, so that some income. And even when the business that a stable and reliable Internet He shared, “It was easier than I SME owners and entrepreneurs Easier said than done though. decided to offer delivery, it was connection was important – how thought. Digitalisation sounded can manage their day-to-day Venturing into the delivery space faced with the dilemma of how to else to receive orders and fulfil the intimidating, but with the help of routines with greater convenience came with its share of problems as best connect with its customers deliveries? We also needed to let Xan, the Digi Business Manager, and ease. SMEs embarked on their digital to inform them that it remained our customers know that we were we switched our business model transformation journeys, because open for business – as Chong Kien still in business,” he said. and the results have been very n For businesses looking to some kind of platform or system Aun, the owner of Penang-based For assistance, he turned to encouraging.” make the shift, upskill or digitalise was needed to do so. steamboat restaurant Hong La Jiao, Digi Business and its range of Among the technologies that like Hong La Jiao, contact Digi This also rang true for tradition- discovered. comprehensive solutions, which Chong leveraged to transform Business at 016-299 8888 and ask al F&B businesses that had previ- With three restaurants in were coupled with value-packed and sustain his business include a to speak with one of the many ously relied on walk-in customers, Penang and another in Kuala connectivity plans. digital solution called AVANA to friendly Business Managers to many of which lack basic connec- Lumpur, he knew it was crucial to In no time, Chong found one that create an online store and d’SMS to find out more. Lowering financing barriers CGC continues innovating imSME to meet MSME needs THE first online micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) financing referral platform in the country, imSME, has certainly made great strides since its launch in February 2018. Mooted by Bank Negara Malaysia and powered by Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd (CGC), the digital Micro Credit Prihatin initiatives under the platform furthers CGC’s aim to help SMEs Prihatin economic stimulus package. obtain financing from financial institutions. On imSME, MSMEs can apply for financing In line with its name, which represents ‘I referrals by following the four simple steps am MSME’, it targets not only established below: SMEs, but also micro businesses and aspiring > Step 1: Key in financing requirement(s) business owners currently looking for the > Step 2: Share business details to match right financing products from financiers. with the right financing product available Today, imSME’s financing partners > Step 3: Register or log in include 26 financial institutions, 10 peer-to- > Step 4: Compare and choose the peer financing operators, three equity best-suited financing product(s). The chosen crowdfunding operators, three agencies financier will contact the applicant within and three capacity building agencies. two working days As at March 31 this year, its cumulative Aside from offering financing referrals, the achievements include 38,000 registrations, portal also provides financial advisory ser- RM369mil financing approved and vices for MSMEs. A Financial Advisory Team RM273mil financing disbursed. (FA Team) was established by CGC to conduct For its innovative approach in providing a in-depth reviews and diagnosis to identify comprehensive digital financing referral gaps and improve financial literacy among platform for SMEs, imSME has won three MSMEs, which will in turn boost their chanc- awards in recent years, namely the es of obtaining financing from financiers. Association of Development Financing The FA Team supports unsuccessful appli- Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP) cants via imSME by improving the possibili- Outstanding SME Development Project ties of these MSMEs finding matching pro- (Merit) in February 2019, the Karlsruhe duct(s) offered by financial institutions in Sustainable Finance Awards’ Best Innovation their next loan/financing application. In in Financial Services (Merit) in July 2019 and addition, these applicants are also guided to most recently, the Asset Triple A Awards’ alternative financing sources such as peer-to- Best Digital Banking Solution in August 2020. peer and equity crowdfunding financing. Moreover, amidst the Covid-19 pandemic To ensure imSME stays relevant and effec- in 2020, imSME was entrusted as one of the tive in catering to MSME needs, the technolo- channels for MSMEs to apply for the Special gy behind this platform is continuously Relief Facility (SRF). improved. New features are constantly intro- Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, duced to enhance the efficiency of imSME imSME was entrusted as one of the channels through digitalisation and automation, for MSMEs to apply for the Special Relief resulting in improved customer experience. Facility (SRF). Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Mohd Yassin on Apr 6, 2020 n Interested MSMEs may visit www.imsme. made an announcement informing MSMEs com.my/portal/en/. There are more than 60 that they have the option to apply for financing products available to meet their financing through imSME for the SRF and business needs. THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 SOBA 2020 5 Transforming logistics with education PenPostGrad offers industry-driven courses to future-proof talents

IF there’s one thing that the past managing director Datuk Dr Part of the Peninsula Higher year living under the shadow Michael Tio. Education Group, PenPostGrad is of Covid-19 has proven, it’s the wholly owned by the strategically indispensably essential role that Eye on the future diversified PKT Logistics Group logistics plays in our daily lives, and is one of the few higher educa- whether it’s delivering the vegeta- As the advent and application of tion institutions offering a Masters bles we eat to the medical devices smart computers and machinery in International Logistics and like three-ply surgical face masks becomes more prevalent in the Supply Chain Management by the and sanitisers we use daily. logistics industry - alongside the University of Plymouth. With the majority of individuals increasingly complex and inter- The programme, taught by lec- and workers urged to stay home twined global supply chain - so too turers who are themselves experi- through the various movement does the need to have skilled indi- enced logistics experts, is in part- control orders that started in viduals armed with the knowledge nership with the University of March last year, the dependence to properly manage such techno- Plymouth, United Kingdom. Its first on reliable logistics partners and logical innovations. intake will commence in May 2021. couriers has never been higher. The only way to do so is continu- Based in a historic maritime city The irony, of course, is that the ously learning and keeping ahead and ranked among the top 3% of logistics industry has traditionally of the curve, which will not only universities in the world in the been perceived as “grunt work”, help individuals keep up with the Times Higher Education World especially when it comes to activi- University Rankings 2021, the ties related to warehousing and University of Plymouth has a transport – dirty, dangerous and history that traces back to 1862 demeaning. with a core strength in maritime The fact of the matter is, this and logistics education. state of affairs has changed drasti- Catered towards working adults Tio believes that as the logistics industry increasingly embraces new cally over the past two decades in wishing to upskill and future-proof technology in line with IR4.0, its talents must be properly equipped to tandem with considerable improve- themselves for career development handle such innovations. ments in technology, operating pro- by pursuing academic and opera- cedures and safety standards. tional excellence in logistics, the fundamental importance of suita- Modules include international While most who entered logistics programme is structured on a part- ble research and modelling meth- logistics management; internation- were early school-leavers that time study basis on weekends. ods to conduct effective analysis al trade, procurement, logistics and climbed up the pecking order This is because PenPostGrad into relevant logistics and supply shipping; international supply in the past, there are numerous takes into account that most of the chain case studies, in order to chain systems; logistics, supply educational institutions today that students enrolled might be full- develop an appropriate proposal. chains, systems and methods; offer diplomas and degrees in time working professionals with This will enable participants to maritime finance and business logistics – most recently, even a young families. forecast trends, identify areas of modelling, as well as research Master’s programme – with the potential risk, prepare for contin- skills and economics for interna- tremendous rise of recognition Real-world applications gencies and align business strate- tional supply chains. and requirements for qualified gies with organisational goals. Assessment is based on course- and skilled logisticians. The University of Plymouth Moreover, among the key work, group work and presenta- Some organisations even Working professionals can tap into Masters in International Logistics modules incorporated into the tions, with no examinations. demand that a logistician acquires part-time study opportunities to and Supply Chain Management programme are comprehensive > Year Two (Research project tertiary qualification before being upskill themselves and obtain offered by PenPostGrad differs studies on technologies aligned or business case study) given a promotion to a managerial globally recognised qualifications from other equivalent courses in with IR4.0 such as blockchain tech- Students will spend six months position. locally, said Prof Pashby. the market owing to its unique nology, automation, artificial intel- or more, working with a supervi- “People now realise the modules, which are based on ligence and robotics among others. sor, on an approved topic to pro- importance of logistics as more latest trends and modus operandi, real-world trends and scenarios The course structure for the duce a dissertation, alongside people are taking up logistics as but also forecast and develop pertinent to both current and Masters in International Logistics occasional weekend workshops. a job. From food deliveries to systems and strategies that may future industry challenges and and Supply Chain Management haulage to last mile deliveries, future-proof the company’s supply requirements. programme taught at The Ship Affordable quality education logisticians are present at every chain. Students will be exposed to the Campus in Batu Kawan Penang or point of the supply chain. This, in turn, will prove invalua- latest standards in international The Lighthouse in Shah Alam, is as While having a prior diploma or “The focus is now towards ble in preparing the company trade requirements, as well as the follows: degree in logistics management inbound as opposed to outbound in for the next global recession or financial aspects needed to run > Year One (Teaching) would be beneficial to those seek- the past and the need for skilled pandemic in the years to come. an agile organisation that can There are six taught modules, ing to undertake this programme, logisticians to manage the local Taking the lead to help the logis- seamlessly cater to a globalised averaging 35 to 40 hours face-to- Peninsula Higher Education Group supply chain has grown exponen- tics industry transform in line with supply chain. face teaching per module, spread president Prof Ian Pashby stressed tially,” said PKT Logistics Group the fourth industrial revolution As part of in-depth course assess- over three teaching periods of 17 that it is not mandatory for Sdn Bhd group chief executive and (IR4.0) and beyond is PenPostGrad. ments, students will discover the weeks each. enrolment, as acceptance in the programme takes into considera- tion the working experience and academic qualifications of prospec- tive students. That said, the course can still be completed in as little as one and a half years, with tuition fees costing less than 40% of the UK-based equivalent. “PenPostGrad establishes a direct link between the university – like the University of Plymouth – and students, offering the same course content and assessment methods as the offering university, but at a more affordable price,” he said. Furthermore, depending on individual circumstances, a mone- tary assistance scheme may also be applicable for those who might be experiencing financial difficulties. The first intake of the pro- gramme, which is claimable from the Human Resources Logistics Development Fund, will commence companies in May 2021. Students who enrol such as PKT in the May 2021 cohort may also be Logistics Group eligible for a pioneer scholarship are seeking of RM5,000. logisticians with tertiary ■ Scan the QR qualifications code to find out in order to more and elevate the register today professionalism to be a part of of the industry. the future of logistics. 6 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 Meeting customer needs digitally RHB enhances capability of mobile app to ease digital banking for SMEs

THE Covid-19 pandemic has East Asia, the RHB Financing (SME) lending portal in Malaysia exclu- rapidly shifted the needle for Mobile App is powered by artificial sively targeting SME businesses to technology adoption, accelerating intelligence, machine learning and provide financing amount of up to the digital transformation journey big data capabilities to better fit RM1mil, for tenures between six for businesses for survival and customer financing requirements. and 84 months, without any sustainability. It is also outfitted with facial collateral required. Eager to recoup the devastating recognition features and real-time Even now, RHB is not stopping to losses of the previous year, small application processing capabilities rest on its laurels, as it seeks to stay and medium enterprises (SMEs) to provide an additional layer of ahead of the curve by introducing are leveraging technology – such as security and convenience. further enhancements to make it digital and mobile – to tap into new A complement to RHB’s SME easier for SMEs to conduct their opportunities. Online Financing web portal transactions with the bank. This new paradigm shift also launched in July 2018, as part of its The ongoing initiative is in line heralds disruption in the way that SME Digital Transformation initia- with the bank’s belief that every SME partners and facilitators in the tive, the RHB Financing (SME) business deserves progress, which ecosystem, such as financial insti- Mobile App is the latest addition to is why its aim – ensuring SME tutions, support the development the wider RHB SME Ecosystem that businesses have easy access to and growth of these companies – offers end-to-end financial services, working capital, while at the same especially in a time when SMEs as well as innovative and versatile time empowering them to main- are seeking solutions for growth. financing solutions for SMEs. tain more control over their To do so, businesses require More importantly, however, the finance and banking matters – access to working capital. While RHB will introduce new tech capabilities to stay ahead of the curve in the app reflects RHB’s commitment in becomes paramount in any digital financing has been a persistent SME digital lending space in Malaysia and the region. continuously enhancing its range banking development that the challenge for most SMEs, the of digital products and services, as bank undertakes. pandemic and its subsequent distancing and movement restric- the convenience to directly access well as the importance it places on movement control orders have tions among others – and enhance their application status in real-time customer feedback. ■ Transform your banking with worsened matters by exhausting easy and quick access to capital on their mobile devices on-the-go This traces back to the SME the RHB Financing (SME) Mobile their cash reserves. through the mobile platform. on a safe and efficient platform. Online Financing, the first digital App. Download and apply today. Taking swift action to help SMEs While the app reflects the same Through the portal, customers address the issue back in August financing terms provided in the are able to apply for financing 2020, RHB Banking Group estab- SME Online Financing programme, online and submit supporting lished an innovative head start in it adds a new dimension of digitali- documents digitally, all within the mobile space with the launch sation by automating the customer their fingertips and in just 10 of the RHB Financing (SME) Mobile onboarding process and effectively minutes. The simplified process App, with the aim of financing at removing the need for SME owners would require SMEs to submit only least RM500 in support of small to physically visit a bank branch to two documents, namely a digital businesses in 2021. submit their applications. copy of the applicant’s directors’ Coinciding with the reopening Empowering business MyKad and bank statements for economy and the shift in customer owners with more control over the previous six months. preference to mobile, its aim is to their finances, the app enables Touted as the first “customer lower barriers – including Covid- remote financial application self-initiated” SME financing 19-specific limitations of physical submissions and gives customers mobile app in Malaysia and South- Boosting healthcare exports Matrade helps build global resilience for exporters

WHILE the far-reaching impact of the Covid- 19 pandemic has proven devastating to the world, it also demonstrated the value of Malaysian healthcare players. Malaysia supplies 60% of the world mar- ket’s medical gloves and 80% for catheters. The top four glove producers are Hartalega, Top Glove, Supermax and Kossan Rubber. Stepping up to the plate to help combat Covid-19, these industry leaders ramped up their production capacities by increasing domestic investment to increase exports to Matrade spearheads the coordination of meet the higher global demand for health- Malaysia’s export promotion programmes. care products. As a result, the industry has grown by 24.9% to reach RM29.9bil in medi- order to ensure the global success of cal devices export to major export markets Malaysian companies. such as the United States, Germany, Japan, Committed to building the global resil- and Belgium. ience of Malaysian exporters, particularly in With an estimated 1.9 billion Muslim pop- the post Covid-19 recovery period, Matrade ulation worldwide, Malaysia is well posi- continues to work closely with the Ministry tioned to leverage its inherent strength to of Health, the Malaysian Rubber Council, the become a medical tourism hub for halal Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia, the healthcare, namely the high growth medical Malaysia Medical Device Manufacturers devices sector outlined in the Eleventh and Association and the Association of Malaysia Twelfth Malaysia Plan, as well as medical Medical Industries. tourism and products such as halal medical As such, under its Export Promotion consumables and pharmaceuticals. Programme 2021, Matrade has outlined over Catering to the growing demand for halal 300 activities focusing on the creation of medical products, the Malaysian export champions in high-value sectors, by Government has approved the Malaysian utilising digital platforms, ensuring inclu- standard for Halal Medical Device for the siveness, tapping into current market trends Department of Islamic Development and forging strategic collaborations. Malaysia or the respective state Islamic Among the export promotion programmes religious councils to certify such products. and initiatives Matrade has lined up include: Moreover, the pandemic also catalysed > Virtual International Sourcing healthcare trends and facilitated the adop- Programme (INSP), in conjunction with tion of digital health technologies, adding Malaysia International Halal Showcase (Apr value to the country’s position as a medical 1 to Sept 1) tourism hub. > Arab Health Expo, Dubai (June 21 to 24) As the main secretariat for the Export > INSP, in conjunction with Asia Pandemic Coordination Council Working Committee Congress, Kuala Lumpur (Aug 16 to 18) chaired by the Ministry of International > Expo 2020 Dubai (Oct 1, 2021 to March Trade, the Malaysian External Trade 31, 2022) Development Corporation (Matrade) spear- heads the coordination of export promotion ■ Apply for Matrade’s 2021 Export programmes by ministries and agencies to Promotion Programmes at optimise the impact of such initiatives, in bit.ly/MatradeExportPromotion THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 SOBA 2020 7 A fresh take on Julie’s Biscuits Creative short film Operation Maybe drives its rebranding initiative

FOR almost 35 years, Julie – the blonde-haired girl in a blue shirt and red coveralls who portrayed a conservative young lady – has duti- fully served as the ambassadorial icon for renowned biscuit brand Julie’s Biscuits. As many would know, Julie’s choosing from the myriad brand Biscuits is a household name of identity reinventions punctuate the confectioneries known for its entire rebranding exercise. delectable biscuit treats. Some of As a rebrand is such a monu- its classic treats include Julie’s Love mental undertaking for any compa- Letters wafer rolls and Julie’s ny and its customers, each decision Peanut Butter Sandwich biscuits. surrounding it is weighed so heavi- A trusted brand since its incep- ly that the exercise is often filled tion, Julie’s Biscuits has recently with hesitation and worse, anxiety. rebranded with a brand new Julie. Operation Maybe, however, is a Shedding her old style by sport- brand movie that assures us that ing a new hairdo and outfit, the amidst uncertainty and apprehen- young Julie has a renewed zest for sion, the reward at the end of a life, as she smiles, gazing breezily seemingly uncertain rebranding yet confidently into the future. journey will be confidence and Julie’s Biscuits breathes new life into its brand with a creative rebranding initiative driven by Operation Maybe. There is a certain freshness, certainty. conviction and even humour in The film tells the story of an over- her assured, but tentative, retorts. corners of the company to conduct Kevin Joseph, the associate crea- the new Julie. the-hill marketing head, Raju, In many ways, Operation Maybe a heist of the company’s old logo. tive director for GOVT Singapore, But behind all this certainty, whose creative spirit and energy is about how Raju throws Cindy a The amateur heisters’ main the creative agency behind there is more than meets the eye. has dried up because of the tedium lifeline and revitalises her second objective is to replace the old logo Operation Maybe, succinctly cap- What better way to tell the of his work routine. For 35 years, generation leadership. with the new version in all areas of tures the transformational thinking. insider’s story of this rebranding Raju has played it safe and toed the As Raju presents the new Julie’s the office, culminating with a logo He said, “To see a heritage brand journey than through film? The company line as a good soldier who logo to Cindy, he is once again change at the main entrance, but like Julie’s Biscuits embrace evolu- brand does just that with an never realises his full potential. greeted by her rejection and as can be expected, the heist was tion like this is inspiring. When 18-minute comedic heist short Unlikely hero Raju, like Julie’s, is storms out of the meeting, ready to riddled with close calls, miscom- you’ve been at something for so film called Operation Maybe. in need of a rebrand. Now in the throw in the towel – only to be per- munication and minor accidents. long, it’s easy to get stuck in the winter of his life, he feels like time suaded by his young, ditzy intern To top it off, it was only when status quo.” ‘Maybe’ rebranding is running out. To make matters Ezra to stay the course and have they finally mounted the new logo Like the heist in Operation worse, most of his creative ideas faith in his creative ideas. at the main entrance that they Maybe, Julie’s Biscuits rebrand is a Perhaps because all rebranding are met by his chief executive Ezra tells Raju that Cindy needs realised that Ezra made a broad and deeply collaborative journeys are “operation maybes”, officer Cindy Tang’s frosty and curt to see Raju’s rebranding ideas Photoshop error, resulting in Julie’s commitment requiring all hands they are enormous soul-searching, reply of “maybe”. expressed in real life to fully appre- head to be tilted up. They then on deck. To ensure the success of nerve-wrecking experiences that Cindy’s “maybes”, however, ciate them. Encouraged by his escape the “crime” scene in disap- the rebrand, it engaged the best are anything but certain: Questions reveal her own existential crisis: words, Raju, his sidekick Chee and pointment, thinking that their cross-functional teams, with like “if it ain’t broken, why fix it?” she doesn’t know how to take Julie’s Ezra quickly assemble a crew of grand plan had gone up in flames. creative agencies like Superunion to the anxious dilemmas of into the future and hides behind oddball social misfits from all The next morning, Raju packs up and GOVT Singapore amongst its his desk, ready to face the conse- many working partners. quences of the daring failed stunt It is an approach that has proven he pulled. He goes to Cindy to successful. confess his crime only to be faced Garnering over 800,000 views with her surprised admiration. on YouTube for Operation Maybe Energised by the rebranded in just over three months and Julie’s, Cindy assures Raju that Julie receiving rave viewer reviews is is “looking exactly where she needs no mean feat indeed. to”, thanking Raju for lifting a load A debt of gratitude is owed to off her shoulders. the stellar all-Malaysian crew As the film draws to an end, Raju under the astute film direction of reminds us that we should always Lobak Loon and spectacular talents fight for what we believe in and of Indi Nadarajah, Bella Rahim, look to hope and aspiration, even as Amanda Ang, Fabian Loo, Nabilah we get older or are downtrodden. Hamid, Goh Kee Kuang and Phraveen Arikiah. Be bold, be a brand As Julie’s Biscuits continues in 2021 to complete its rebranding The film not only embodies the journey, it reminds everyone to brand values – youthfulness, opti- always take a chance in life, stay mism and self-confidence – that hopeful and be bold. Julie’s Biscuits aspires to, it also The 18-minute comedic heist short film tells the story of over-the-hill marketing head Raju and his oddball demonstrates the bold steps the her- ■ Catch the amazing Operation social misfit colleagues, who hatch a bold heist to replace the existing logo with a new one. itage brand took to revamp itself. Maybe at www.julies.com.my.

Operation Maybe not only embodies the brand values that Julie’s Biscuits aspires to, but also demonstrates the bold steps that the heritage brand took to revamp itself. 8 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021

At the top row are Star Media Group Bhd group chief executive officer Alex Yeow (third from left), director Datuk Dr Mohd Aminuddin Mohd Rouse (fifth from left) and International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Azmin Ali (sixth from left), together with SMG senior management members and SOBA sponsors, join SOBA 2020 award winners in celebrating their achievements at the conclusion of the SOBA 2020 Gala Night in Petaling Jaya. Moment of triumph

Photo: FAIHAN GHANI, IZZRAFIQ ALIAS, KAMARUL ARIFFIN and SAMUEL ONG/The Star The Star Outstanding Business Awards (SOBA), in its 11th edition, cast off the dark days of Covid-19 with a triumphant Gala Night at One World Hotel in Petaling Jaya. The peak of the awards programme celebrated the nation’s best performing non-listed companies of 2020, granting them the honour of joining the ranks of SOBA’s alumni of elites. For Female Entrepreneur of the Year (above RM25mil turnover), Medi- Life (M) Sdn Bhd managing director Christine Lee (second from left) was awarded the Par Excellence Achievement by Mohd Mustafa (right), with the awards for Outstanding Achievement going to Star Glory Asia (M) Sdn Bhd founder Phang Sher Ren (left) and Meritorious Achievement to Fire Fighter Industry Sdn Bhd executive director Michelle Hah.

Matrade’s Mohd Mustafa (right) with the winners for (from left) Best Green Initiative (above RM25mil Best Use of Technology (above RM25mil turnover) turnover) Silver winner Senheng training department including (from left) Fire Fighter Industry chief head Lim Yau Young, Platinum winner SKVE Holdings innovation officer Brian Soo (Silver), Senheng new Sdn Bhd chief operating officer Teoh Jui Min, Gold retail technology head Raymond Tan (Platinum) and winner SJ Varied Sdn Bhd project director Sea Gamer Mall Sdn Bhd CEO Tommy Chieng (Gold), Asawindran Kumaran and Matrade’s Mohd Mustafa. each holding aloft their respective trophies.

Matrade’s Mohd Mustafa (right) applauds the success of the winners for Male Entrepreneur of the Year (above RM25mil turnover), including (from left) Platinum Victory Holdings Sdn Bhd director Tan Sri Gan Yu Chai (Outstanding Achievement), Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd group chairman Lim Kim Heng (Par Excellence Achievement) and UMMI Surgical Sdn Bhd MD Saw Teck Hui (Meritorious Achievement).

Yeow (fifth from left) with Best Brand (up to RM25mil turnover) winners, (from left) Wellous Sdn Bhd CEO Racheal Tan (Meritorious Achievement), Big Onion Food Caterer Sdn Bhd chief operating officer Louise Chay (Meritorious Achievement), Doremi Services and Rental Sdn Bhd MD Lim Ee Huang (Silver), Klinik Dr Chong During the awards night, guests were treated to a variety of Carlsberg Sdn Bhd founder Dr Chong Tze Sheng (Gold), Dragon Taste Seafood Wholesale and Retail Sdn Bhd CEO and products, including Somersby Cider and beers from Carlsberg, Asahi director Raymond Tea (Platinum) and Property Hub Sdn Bhd executive director Benjamin Tee (Meritorious and Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc. Achievement). THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 SOBA 2020 9

RHB Banking Group chief marketing officer Abdul Sani Abdul Murad (second from left) and business and transaction banking head Jeffrey Yeow (fourth from left) represents SMG in thanking (from left) CGC’s Leong, Matrade’s Mohd Mustafa, RHB’s Ng (third from left) and the team pose with finger hearts in support of Ng, Digi’s Tan and PKT Logistics Group’s Tio for their organisations’ sponsorship and support of SOBA 2020. SOBA 2020.

PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd chief executive and managing director Datuk Michael Tio (centre) and the team pose with Tio’s signature Digi sales, corporate and SME head Tan Yee Meng (second from left) takes a group thumbs up shot with the team at its booth on the awards night. gesture.

Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) CEO Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz (second from left) with the team at the Matrade booth during the Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd (CGC) chief corporate officer Rahim SOBA 2020 Gala Raduan (fourth from left) and chief business officer Leong Weng Choong (sixth from Night. left) attended the awards night with his team in recognition of local companies.

(from left) Best in CSR (above RM25mil turnover) SMG’s Yeow (second from left) is flanked by Best Silver winner Linaco Manufacturing (M) Sdn Bhd Brand (above RM25mil turnover) Silver winner Senheng’s Lim (centre) strikes a victory pose after winning one of the group ED Joe Ling, Gold winner Veritas Architects Sdn RedONE Network Sdn Bhd chief sales officer Ben Teh most coveted SOBA awards, the Malaysian Business of the Year award Bhd senior associate architect Alif Arif Iskandar A (left) and Platinum winner Senheng marketing head (above RM25mil turnover). Wahab and Matrade’s Mohd Mustafa. June Tai.

Matrade’s Mohd (from left) Best Mustafa (right) with Employer (up to (from left) Best RM25mil turnover) Innovation (above Silver winner KYY RM25mil turnover) Empire Sdn Bhd Silver winner Empire executive chairman Sushi’s Lim, K.Y. Lim, Platinum Platinum winner winner FR Freight Senheng chief Services Sdn Bhd operating officer MD Ryan Lei, SMG’s Cheong Jun Tong Yeow and Gold and Gold winner winner Wynkids PKSJ Fertilizers Sdn Education Group Bhd MD Law Chen CEO Elwin Goh. Ann. 10 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021

REDONE Network Sdn Bhd (redONE), Malaysia’s leading mobile virtual network operator with over 1.2 million postpaid Delivering connectivity to all subscribers, is known for its affordable services and mobile plans that start from as low as RM8 per month. Riding on a premier mobile redONE continues innovating to keep up with the competition network operator’s wide 4G LTE infrastructure, redONE subscribers can expect to enjoy seamless data connectivity and uninterrupted voice calls throughout Malaysia at budget-friendly prices. Winner of multiple awards and accolades for its practices and val- ues, redONE currently operates in Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. has a network of 4,000 active sales It has ambitious plans to expand advisors around the country. into other parts of Asean in the Apart from the commercial near future. aspect, redONE is a strong advocate Catering to the demand of the for sports. It is a supporter of the market, redONE offers both post- local sports scene with sponsorship paid and prepaid mobile services, in badminton, squash and football, where its core revenue derives including Terengganu FC, a team from the postpaid segment. Even currently in the Malaysia Super though all redONE mobile plans League and PDRM FC, a team in are priced affordably, it remains the Premier League. generous with its product offering. While quickly becoming a The three Amazing plans, which prominent brand in the industry, start from as low as RM8 a month redONE has also been giving back and offers up to 60GB of data, are to society by doing its fair share of designed for the different segments corporate social responsibility of the market. work. The recently introduced These include initiatives to help Hybrid50U plan, designed for the less fortunate by bringing gifts heavy data users, comes with and joy to the children at orphan- unlimited data and calls for only ages around the country, raising RM50 a month and still remains redONE always has a place for all individuals, be it consumer, entrepreneur, or those looking to earn more money to improve the learning among the lowest price in the income. environment of primary schools market. At the same time, redONE across all states, as well as bringing continues innovating to keep up user experience to its customers. 2,500 retail partners throughout shops as training centres for its relief and other necessities to flood with the competition. While it is a customer-centric Malaysia. These redONE outlets not sales advisors. Here, they are victims in the East Coast. Evolving in the digital landscape, company, redONE has always only build up its local brand pres- skilfully trained by officially No matter if you are a consumer, the company has launched various recognised the importance of its ence, but also provide instant ser- appointed redONE trainers on how an entrepreneur or an individual mobile applications, a self-registra- sales partners. vice access for the community. to become a telcopreneur who gen- seeking to earn more income, there tion process and eSIM technology The company now has over 100 In addition, redONE seized the erates personal income with life- is always a place for you with with the aim of bringing a greater premier shops and more than opportunity to use the premier long incentives. To date, redONE redONE. THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 11 12 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 Driven to excel Medi-Life founder’s passion continues to drive business success

AN industry-leading distributor of medical equipment and devices in Malaysia, Medi-Life (M) Sdn Bhd is spearheaded by visionary entre- preneur and inspirational leader Christine Lee Ling Ling. Thanks to Lee’s guidance, Medi- Life has become a natural go-to name for high-quality, state-of-the- art products, specialising in medical equipment for operating theatres and surgical kits. The company is currently the exclusive distributor and rental The management solutions provider for some of the team behind world’s top brands in medical Medi-Life, an apparatuses and technologies. industry-leading Built on a strong foundation distributor of corporate cultures, Medi-Life of medical remains fully committed to equipment and Along the way, Lee was awarded maintaining the highest ethical devices in the Asia Pacific Entrepreneur standards as it grows, embracing Malaysia. Awards Outstanding Entrepreneur diversity while upholding three in the Medical Supplies Industry in simple yet fundamental business 2018, while Medi-Life clinched philosophies: humanity, compas- positivity and staunch determina- to be 100% dedicated to the supplies industry, she established BrandLaureate’s SME Best Brands sion and sincerity. tion to distinguish itself from healthcare industry. Medi-Life with three former Award 2017/18 in Healthcare Aiming to satisfy every customer competitors. At the helm of the company is colleagues. Solutions under her leadership. need with the best support, the It does so by advocating the Lee, who started her career as a Throughout it all, she overcame Most recently, Lee won the Par company prioritises its customers highest standards of value-added product specialist after returning the challenge of having to juggle Excellence Achievement award for by adopting their viewpoint to services and consistency, in order from her studies in Australia. between her young family and a the Female Entrepreneur of the ensure its service takes a humanis- to emphasise its sincerity in doing With her family background and flourishing business, leading the Year category (above RM25mil tic approach. By empathising with business and its appreciation upbringing, it was given that she company’s growth from only four turnover) in SOBA 2020. the challenges customers face, it towards being trusted as a would choose the opportunity that employees to a team of over 70 Further down the road, seeks to be part of remedial long-term business partner. would bring her a greater breadth people, with four branches in Shah Medi-Life has plans to establish solutions in the ultimate goal of Medi-Life commits to shared and depth of knowledge and Alam, Penang, Sabah and Sarawak. a stronger foothold in turnkey helping patients in their recovery. success, working together to suc- experience, which is why she Currently, the company has projects for both government and In line with its vision to become ceed every mission and taking favoured a local company over exclusive distributorship for 27 private hospitals. The company is the leading distributor of advanced accountability for the sustainable a multinational fast moving agency lines in the country and is also looking to penetrate into medical products and services, success for its employees, custom- consumer goods company. eyeing the further expansion of its new segments beyond the surgical Medi-Life and the team behind it ers, shareholders, suppliers and Leveraging her eight solid distribution network across the market, namely the peri-operative have tackled every hardship with communities, in a collective effort years of experience in the surgical region. segment, in 2021. Bringing fire safety to the masses Fire Fighter Industry advocates fire safety awareness

EVERY 24 minutes, a fire breaks out in Malaysia, according to the latest statistics reported by the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba). An average of RM5bil is lost annually to fire, with 4,000 car fires breaking out yearly. Established in 1974, Fire Fighter Industry Sdn Bhd celebrates its 47th anniversary this year, making The team behind Fire Fighter Industry in a commemorative group photo it the oldest fire safety company in taken before the Covid-19 pandemic last year. Malaysia. The company was founded by Jeffrey Soo and Michelle Hah, when they realised that there was no easy way to acquire and service Fire Fighter fire extinguishers, in order to com- Industry is a ply with Bomba requirements. market leader Since then, the company has in the expanded to become the country’s manufacturing, No.1 one-stop centre for fire safety, installation and providing end-to-end services that maintenance of range from supply and service of a full range of fire extinguishers to design, fire protection installation and maintenance of systems and full-fledged fire protection systems. their ancillary Even with more than four dec- equipment. ades of experience under its belt, Fire Fighter Industry was never- Jeffrey (second from left), Brian (centre) and Hah (fourth from left) with theless impacted by the Covid-19 the Fire Fighter Industry team at the SOBA 2020 Gala Night. — SAMUEL motorsport enthusiasts remain was recognised for Meritorious pandemic, which brought about ONG/The Star protected both on and off the track. Achievement under the Female a new normal in the business Apart from these collaborations Entrepreneur of the Year category landscape. While this increased the risk on its website, even during the with vehicle-focused brands, Fire in the long-running business It also sparked the need for rapid of fires breaking out in residences, MCO, making it easier for end Fighter Industry has also had awards programme, under the change within the fire safety com- everyday Malaysians are largely users to acquire their first fire long-standing partnerships with same tier. pany, as it started to double down not equipped with basic fire safety safety product. EcoWorld and LBS to ensure that Serving as proof that it has on its digital journey to accelerate knowledge and equipment in their On top of this, to reach a wider residential homes in Malaysia are charted the right course for its technology adoption and adapt to homes. audience, Fire Fighter Industry has properly protected from fire. future, the recent SOBA 2020 wins the new way of doing business. In response, Fire Fighter collaborated with trusted brands In recognition of its digital will spur Fire Fighter Industry to Under the first movement con- Industry took the initiative to such as Sepang International initiatives, Fire Fighter Industry focus on leveraging technology fur- trol order (MCO) in March 2020, advocate fire safety and boost Circuit and Lim Tayar to further was awarded with the Silver ther, in order to better protect the Malaysians were largely forced to public awareness. This in turn led expose fire safety to the public. The award for Best Use of Technology nation and its people from fires. stay at home to reduce the spread to thousands of Malaysian homes company is also the Official Fire (for the above RM25mil turnover of Covid-19, with many turning to being protected by its fire extin- Safety Partner for the Sepang tier) in SOBA 2020. ■ Visit www.firefighter.com.my for cooking at home as a necessity. guishers that were primarily sold International Circuit, ensuring that Meanwhile, its co-founder Hah more information. THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 SOBA 2020 13

Beh (left) and national squash player Low Wee Wern hold up smartphones displaying the BookDoc app, following a September 2020 press conference to announce free Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham (third from left) with BookDoc founder Datuk tele-consultation in the Covid-19 and mental health category for Penangites until Chevy Beh (fourth from left) at the signing of a memorandum of understanding to leverage December the same year, as part of its commitment to support the authorities and BookDoc’s platform in a joint effort to combat Covid-19 in April 2020. frontliners in defending the nation against the pandemic. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star Transforming healthcare through tech BookDoc provides end-to-end holistic digital healthcare solution

MULTI-AWARD winning digital > Employee Benefits healthcare platform BookDoc, A seamless, automated and developed by Health4U Solutions cashless platform for employers Sdn Bhd, has done it again with its to administer their employee award win in SOBA 2020, the latest benefits. in the line of accolades it has > News/Events won both domestically and Through this feature, users can internationally. access the latest medical and Taking home the Meritorious health information, as well as Achievement award for Best in CSR events such as health talks, mara- under the tier for companies with thons and forums in their area. turnover of up to RM25mil, BookDoc is the only company in Towards health and wellness Malaysia and healthtech company in Asia to be listed in the CNBC In its mission to transform Upstart 100 List 2019. healthcare with digital technolo- Since its establishment in 2015, gies, BookDoc often collaborates BookDoc has won multiple awards with non-governmental organisa- and accolades, including winning tions and academic institutions, as the recent Healthcare Fintech well as with many local govern- Alliance (HFA) Innovation ment ministries and agencies. Challenge Asia, a competition joint- During the Covid-19 outbreak in ly organised by Pfizer, Alibaba and 2020, as a company involved in the Fintech Academy to recognise and healthcare industry, BookDoc took reward outstanding health technol- swift action by partnering with ogy companies in Asia; and recent- the Ministry of Health (MOH) to ly being entered into the Malaysia BookDoc’s Beh (fourth from left) with Mosti Minister Khairy Jamaluddin (centre), secretary-general Datuk Dr offer its Covid-19 digital mobile Book of Records for the largest par- Siti Hamisah Tapsir (second from left) and deputy secretary-general Dr Mohd Nor Azman Hassan (left) during platform, including: ticipation in its BookDoc Merdeka a 2020 meeting in support of healthcare innovation. > Free virtual health advisories (Independence Day) Virtual Run. to the public It also won the Asean Business In addition, it has operational > Uberisation of ordering Covid- Awards 2019 (Thailand) and 2020 presences in 20 cities and five 19 screening tests (Vietnam) and continued its countries including Malaysia, > Access to the latest Covid-19 winning streak at the Frost Singapore, Indonesia, updates and news; and Sullivan awards for four and Thailand. > Webinars with medical experts consecutive years. With a holistic approach to digi- BookDoc is a from MOH, including live sessions Selected as one of the 50 success tal healthcare, BookDoc aims to where viewers can interact with multi-award- stories for Digitisation in Asean, improve general health and well- the speakers, as well as recordings BookDoc has been featured on ness in society by capitalising on winning digital of previous sessions. major news portals such as Forbes, technology to improve accessibility healthcare > An online appointment system Fortune, Bloomberg, Bain Research and deliver health, economic and platform that for over 600 government health Report and Newsweek. social benefits to its users. offers users an clinics (Klinik Kesihatan) and And for good reason, too. Its digital health ecosystem end-to-end, virtual clinic services (especially BookDoc, which offers its users offers seven main features: comprehensive for follow-up cases) to enable an end-to-end, comprehensive > Search and Book solution for teleconsultations, where in-person solution to healthcare at their A one-stop booking platform healthcare at consultations are not required, to fingertips, boasts a user base of with healthcare professionals. As a their fingertips. avoid crowding and for physical almost one million users and over technology enabler for online distancing purposes. 40,000 licensed healthcare provid- booking, BookDoc ensures that all Apart from playing its role to ers from various countries listed doctors listed on its platform are counts, users can redeem rewards optical and gym memberships help combat Covid-19, BookDoc has on its platform, including doctors licensed and qualified to practise. and discounts at over 5,200 offline among others. continued pushing forward in from major hospitals, clinic groups The platform itself integrates and online redemption touchpoints > Tele-Consult advocating for public health and and chains. seamlessly with navigation (Google from BookDoc’s rewards partners, This feature brings healthcare wellness, recently collaborating Map and Waze), land transport with major names including Giant, to users’ fingertips to allow them again with the MOH and other stra- Holistic digital healthcare (Uber and Grab), accommodation Beiersdorf (Nivea) and Petron. to consult a doctor anytime and tegic partners including Johnson & (Agoda and Airbnb), as well as More recently, BookDoc also anywhere via chat or video call, Johnson, Pfizer and Universiti BookDoc has been endorsed by recommended restaurants and welcomed a number of new especially for second opinions and Malaya to introduce its mQuit ser- several ministries including the attractions (TripAdvisor) and air rewards partners, including Under on mental health. vice to encourage Malaysian smok- Ministry of Science, Technology transport (Malindo). Armour, Lazada, Kenny Rogers Users with sensitive medical ers to quit smoking and help them and Innovation (Mosti) and the > Activ Roasters, Li-Ning, Himalaya issues, who are concerned about connect with various facilities and Ministry of Youth and Sports on BookDoc’s rewards programme Wellness and Focus Point. privacy, also have the option to healthcare professionals. various matters, while it also has a to promote a healthy lifestyle, Activ > Marketplace chat anonymously. long-running partnership with the rewards users based on their step An e-commerce platform with > Health Coaching ■ The BookDoc App can be Social Security Organisation on the count, which can be integrated over 5,000 products and services, Users can reach out to BookDoc’s downloaded from the Google Play Activ@Work initiative to encourage with most wearable devices, such including Covid-19 polymerase in-house team of nutritionists and Store, Apple App Store and Huawei fitness among government as those from Garmin and Apple. chain reaction lab tests, health dietitians to seek nutritional and Play Store. It is also accessible servants and employees. Based on their monthly step screening, dental, vaccination, weight management advice. online at www.bookdoc.com 14 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 Seeking global opportunities for growth

A1 Globe sets its sights on securing partnerships and distributorships worldwide

HAILING from , Negri Sembilan, A1 Globe Sdn Bhd has come a long way since its early days as Titi Glove Sdn Bhd, a rub- ber glove manufacturer in Muar, . A1 Globe marketing director Terence Lim Soon Hee, a graduate from the Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia, began his venture into the rubber glove business by managing Titi Glove in 2007 and its subsequent capacity expansion to another factory by the name of A1 A1 Globe manufactures, distributes and markets latex and nitrile Glove Sdn Bhd in Nilai, Negri examination gloves, as well as natural latex concentrate of 60% DRC Sembilan, two years later. for both the local and international markets. It was 2018 when Lim and his wife Sook Chin took the initiative potential to become future home ground. to restructure the company as A1 industry leaders. Committed to delivering Globe with its unique business With its business model revolv- premium and consistent quality to strategy and model, which has ing around sub-manufacturing and its customers, A1 Globe’s products steered the company well thus far. leasing glove production machines are in compliance with: Terence Lim Today, A1 Globe is a manufactur- with the help of partners, which > ISO 13485 (left) and his wife er, distributor, supplier and mar- enables the bulk of its focus and > CE Mark Sook Chin took keter for powdered and powder responsibility to be placed on vital > United States Food and Drug the helm to free latex examination gloves and aspects such as sales and market- Administration powder free nitrile examination ing, production, quality control, as > European Standard EN 455, EN strategise and gloves, as well as upstream natural well as packing and shipping. 374 and EN 388 implement a latex concentrate of 60% dry rub- The company’s promise to cus- > ASTM D3578 unique business ber content (DRC) and synthetic tomers is to provide them with the > Food grade overall migration model for the nitrile to glove manufacturers. most competitive prices for consist- test company. Exporting to more than 25 ent quality products, packaging The husband and wife team’s countries, the company’s largest solutions and logistics support future plans for A1 Globe, as all parties. meet customer expectations for export markets include China, worldwide. reflected in its name, is to secure With that in mind, however, Lim win-win situations, which can India, South Korea and the United At the same time, A1 Globe more business partnerships or stressed that it is important to stay help build long term business Arab Emirates. also actively gives back to the joint ventures and welcome true to the company’s core values partnerships and establish Recently, A1 Globe won big as community via its corporate social more distributors from countries and beliefs. customer loyalty. the Grand Winner under the Rising responsibility initiatives, such as around the world. He said, “The biggest opportuni- “We must also think creatively Star category for SOBA 2020, which the recent donation of three-ply This is in order to create ties exist everywhere around the and do business in a way that’s recognises promising small and masks and gloves as well as cash synergistic business opportunities world. We are fully committed to flexible and agile to respond to medium enterprises with the aid to an old folks’ home on its for the benefit and growth of do our part well and perform to changes in the market.” Reaching new heights Senz champions continuous product research and innovation

FUNCTIONAL and stylish kitchen appliances specialist Senz Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd (Senz) adds more feathers to its cap with its three award wins for SOBA 2020, the crowning glory of the Malaysian brand’s journey thus far – with the promise of more innova- tion to come. Topping the achievement of receiving a Certificate of Merit in SOBA 2019, Senz competed once again to emerge as the victorious winner of the SOBA 2020 Gold awards for Best in Marketing and Best in Customer Service catego- Leong won the Outstanding Achievement award under the Female ries, under the tier for companies Entrepreneur of the Year category for the up to RM25mil turnover tier with turnover of up to RM25mil. in SOBA 2020.— IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star Moreover, the company had fur- ther cause for celebration when its brand’s growth lies in its determi- the appliance to clean itself founder and managing director nation to swim against the tide to thoroughly at the press of a button. Leong Hong Yin clinched the boldly make its own mark in the Senz also introduced the Outstanding Achievement award Senz has rapidly expanded its business and operations over the years, industry. country’s first Tri-Ringz Gas Hob for the Female Entrepreneur of the with its product range now boasting over 30 unique and innovative It does so by undertaking to the market. Year category under the same tier. products, which are made available through more than 150 authorised continuous research and innova- Transcending the simple func- Established in November 2009, dealers across Malaysia. tion to constantly create new prod- tionality of traditional gas cookers, Senz started off by selling electric ucts that can enrich the culinary the kitchen appliance offers three stoves to end users through exhibi- Its product range, which boasts Amongst the mainstream experience of its customers and cooking zones in one burner and tions, roadshows and its own over 30 unique and innovative platforms it is active on include elevate the aesthetics of their four unique fire modes. showrooms. kitchen appliances – such as radio stations such as 988 FM and kitchens. Another recent launch is its But it was June 2012 that marked electric stoves and cookers, MY FM, and television channels When it first began, for instance, Futex Ceran heat-resistant ceramic the turning point for the company, cooker hoods, built-in electric such as 8TV and Astro. it chose to market angled design glass for its electric cooker series, with the decision to venture into ovens and gas stoves among others For its digital footprint in mar- cooker hoods instead of taking the which can withstand heat of up to the wholesale industry sparking its – is made available through more keting and promotional efforts, conventional route of producing 700°C and features a combination exponential growth over a short than 150 authorised dealers, to Senz has its own website and chimney design cooker hoods. matte and gloss surface. span of five years. ensure easy accessibility for its Google business page, alongside Furthermore, its electric cookers With a vision of becoming the Today, its business has grown by customers in both Peninsular establishing a social media pres- and fully digital built-in electric No.1 functional yet stylish kitchen leaps and bounds, establishing Malaysia and East Malaysia. ence on Facebook, Instagram, ovens come equipped with German appliances brand, Senz is making Senz as a strong brand with prod- The company explores different Youtube and Tik Tok, as well technology. significant inroads in helping ucts that cater to the modern life- marketing strategies, dabbling in as utilising content marketing Recently, the brand introduced more Malaysians transform their style, which not only excel in func- both traditional and online media websites. its latest IntelClean series, a ordinary kitchens into efficient, tion and technology, but also stylish to effectively reach out to its Throughout it all, however, cooker hood that comes with an stylish and environmentally aesthetic and competitive pricing. customers. the foundation that underpins the auto-cleaning function that enables friendly cooking spaces. THE STAR, MONDAY 19 APRIL 2021 SOBA 2020 15

ROUGHLY a decade ago, it was the norm for the majority of business- es – from highly specialised indus- tries such as aviation, automotive and electronic manufacturers to industries with general cleaning needs like food processing – to per- form all their wiping and cleaning duties using cotton rags. Typically originating from ques- tionable sources, there was no way to guarantee the hygiene and safety of such rags, which may contain and transfer harmful substances such as lead and cadmi- um, as well as hazardous chemi- cals and viruses, onto the surfaces RPD is the pioneer of proprietary process AquaKnitify™, which enabled Traditional cotton rags used for cleaning may contain and transfer they come into contact with. the creation of Greenwipes©, a durable, hygienic, absorbent and harmful substances, hazardous chemicals and viruses onto the surfaces On top of that, these rags were lightweight wiping material. they come into contact with. highly inefficient when it came to serving their intended purpose: wiping and soaking up liquids. It was then that RPD Sdn Bhd saw the need to create a superior A revolution in cleaning quality material for cleaning, which could be hygienic, safe and sustainable yet affordable for all businesses. RPD supports industries with a better wiping solution As such, it pioneered a proprie- tary process called AquaKnitifyTM Today, RPD’s Greenwipes© serve Tested by leading independent has left the area. that enabled the innovation of an thousands of clients of all sizes, testing laboratory SGS, all products To address such risks is the advanced wiping material using ranging from small and medium under the Greenwipes© GShieldTM GShieldTM disinfecting range, which technologically advanced fibre as a enterprises to Fortune 500 compa- range are certified effective against focuses on eliminating surface-to- base. nies across a variety of industries. 99.99% of all bacteria and viruses, hand transmissions that are It resulted in the creation of notably including the novel coro- equally, if not more, risky. Greenwipes©, an extremely Combating surface navirus Covid-19. With GShieldTM, employees can durable, hygienic, absorbent and Many businesses still mistakenly safely return to their workplaces lightweight wiping material. transmissions believe that hand sanitising alone with peace of mind, while compa- Its versatility was remarkable in the market, including cotton At the height of the Covid-19 in a workplace setting is sufficient nies will be able to continue oper- and has since been seamlessly rags, wiping towels and similar pandemic last year, the country to stop the transmission of the ating smoothly to minimise losses incorporated into cleaning and wipes, companies that opt for went into a panic buying frenzy to highly contagious virus. from business disruptions. wiping jobs across countless Greenwipes© immediately enjoyed purchase disinfectants, leading to a The fact, however, is that It is the ideal solution for industries. up to 50% in cost savings on scarce supply of quality disinfect- pathogens are able to survive and disinfecting meeting rooms, This includes aviation, wiping materials. ants. remain infectious on surfaces for computers, work desks and public automotive, electrical and In addition, they also benefited This was when RPD, ahead of anywhere between a few hours spaces with high human traffic like electronic, manufacturing, food from 90% reduction in charges for the curve in wiping solutions, and a few months. office buildings, malls, retail spac- processing, food and beverage, as scheduled waste SW410 – classified became an indispensable partner This means that an individual es, schools and universities. well as healthcare. as rags, plastics, papers or filters to the healthcare sector with might catch a disease simply by Priced significantly cheaper contaminated with scheduled its Greenwipes© disinfecting touching a contaminated surface, ■ To find out more, log on to than all other wiping alternatives waste – due to its light weight. range, GShieldTM. long after the infected individual greenwipes.com.my and myrpd.com Turning parenthood dreams into reality Genesis IVF combines expertise and technology to help couples conceive

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