MTM Labo's Kelly Keak on the entrepreneurial lessons she learnt from her mother

Tatler Asia

09-05-2025

Above Under Keak's leadership as managing director, MTM Labo continues to thrive (Photo: Facebook / MTM Labo)
Getting to where the brand is today took time and commitment. Keak emphasises how their strong mother-daughter bond became a cornerstone of the business 'There's a level of trust and loyalty that you simply cannot manufacture. We both know we are working not just for business success, but for each other's dreams and our family's future,' she continues.
Their close relationship, while a strength, can also lead to heightened emotions. However, their deep love and mutual respect always guide them back to a shared and unified path. 'It's a constant learning process,' Keak admits.
'We agreed early on that professional disagreements stay at work. At home, we are mother and daughter first. It helps that we genuinely value each other's opinions, even if we don't always agree.' No matter how tough the day gets, the duo is always assured that they have each other's backs.
Below, Keak reflects on her journey working with her mother, lessons learnt and what Mother's Day means to her.
Above Keak shares that her father has also been a strong pillar for them throughout the journey (Photo: Kelly Keak)
What strengths do each of you bring to the table?
My mother brings decades of deep industry knowledge, an amazing eye for detail, and a fierce commitment to quality, care (to both our internal team and our customers), ethics and values. I bring a younger perspective—fresh ideas in marketing, branding, and digital innovation.
Our first foray into AI was in November 2023, with the incorporation of panoramic AI skin analysis with high-definition 3D imaging to our existing MAPS (MTM Labo's aesthetic profiling system). This provided a more comprehensive analysis and diagnosis of our customers' skin concerns over time. In March 2024, I introduced our AI Vita treatment, which incorporates the best practices of traditional Chinese and Western wellness philosophies with the pinpoint accuracy of AI. This treatment, using a very precise AI robotic arm, helps to boost circulation and metabolism starting from the womb, and also helps improve digestive health and immunity of reproductive system. Together, we balance tradition with innovation, which has been key to keeping our brand relevant.
How do your generational perspectives show up in the business?
You can see it everywhere, from the way we approach customer engagement to how we think about incorporating giving back into our everyday functions. We provide Chinese values education to our staff so that they can give equal care to our customers and their families. My mother taught me the importance of personal service and building relationships. I brought a focus on technology, digital marketing, and inclusivity. Combining both perspectives has allowed us to evolve while staying true to our roots and philosophy.
Above MTM Labo's AI Vita treatment (Photo: Facebook / MTM Labo)
Do you see this business as part of a family legacy?
Definitely. This business is more than just a livelihood, it represents our family's perseverance, our values and our dreams. I hope to continue growing it in a way that honours my mother's hard work while adapting it for future generations to come.
What have you learnt from each other while working together over the years?
From my mother, I learned resilience and grit—the strength to keep going even when things seem impossible. She also taught me empathy, and that business should always come from a place of care. I think she has learned from me the importance of adapting to change and being open to new possibilities, even if they seem unconventional at first.
Above MTM Labo's collection (Photo: Facebook / MTM Labo)
What does Mother's Day mean to you now?
Mother's Day is incredibly special to me. It's a reminder of all the sacrifices my mother made, not just for our family, but also for every client she's ever helped. Especially since I became a mother, I have learnt to appreciate her even more, understanding that she must have done and sacrificed so much for us, even if she did not mention them. Mother's Day, to me, is a celebration of strength, love, and the quiet, tireless dedication that often goes unseen.
What is the best thing about working together?
The best thing is knowing that no matter how tough the day gets, we have each other's unwavering support. It's incredibly meaningful to build something with someone who knows your heart completely.
How would you describe each other as businesswomen?
For my mother: Resilient. For me, I think she would say: A people person. Compassionate leader.