Latest news with #DexterLau
Daily Express
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Express
How Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad became a regional player
How Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad became a regional player GUIYANG: (China): Malaysia–China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah President Datuk Dexter Lau said sustainable growth demands a clear business model and executable strategies, not just passion and ideas alone. The seasoned businessman, who is also Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad Chief Executive Officer shared this hard-earned wisdom during his keynote address at the recent Trade Connectivity and Global Expansion High-Level Forum. Advertisement The forum was held in conjunction with the 15th Malaysia–China Entrepreneurs Conference held in Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, in China. Speaking to nearly 1,000 government and business leaders from Malaysia, China and other countries, Dexter recounted a pivotal moment from his time studying at the prestigious Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. SPONSORED CONTENT A professor there told him bluntly he was not yet ready to be an entrepreneur because he was focused on what he wanted to do rather than on profitability, returns and business expansion. 'That taught me an important lesson,' Dexter said. Advertisement He used his own company's journey as an example of how businesses can transform themselves detailing how Kim Teck Cheong (KTC) evolved from a local Sabah enterprise into a regional fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) powerhouse by seizing opportunities in trade connectivity and pursuing global expansion. Dexter said represents not just Sabah, but the entire island of Borneo, which includes Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei and pointed out how Borneo's strategic importance in regional trade and international cooperation. Advertisement With KTC approaching its 100th anniversary in just 12 years, Dexter has set his sights on preparing the next generation. His vision is clear, to cultivate and mentor the Dexter family's fourth-generation leadership to ensure the business remains strong for the next century. 'Expanding globally is no longer a choice, it is a must. 'That is why KTC has already taken this step. We are here to share with everyone how we achieved it, how we are doing it today and where KTC will be heading in the years ahead,' he said. He said global expansion is not simply about reaching more markets. Instead, it is about building a solid foundation for long-term growth and preparing future generations to effectively manage the company while continuing to deliver value to shareholders, employees and society. He said human capital forms the foundation of any enterprise, while corporate social responsibility represents both a moral obligation and a smart business investment. He argued that true 'win-win' outcomes in business go beyond just increasing sales volumes. Instead, they must be built on sustainable practices that strengthen local influence, expand trade networks and deliver long-term benefits to all parties involved. Given the current business environment with multilateral trade agreements like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership rapidly improving infrastructure across Southeast Asia, and accelerating digital transformation, Dexter urged businesses to act decisively. He outlined four strategic areas that companies should focus on to secure a strong position in the global marketplace namely localisation, digital technology, strategic partnerships and sustainability. The conference took on a personal touch when Dexter's mother, Datin Lim Fook Len, attended the event to support her son and the MCCC Sabah delegation. This gesture highlighted the family values that underpin the business leader's approach. The forum also featured other prominent speakers including professors from Malaysian and Chinese universities, as well as executives from major corporations. The session was moderated by veteran Malaysian business leader Datuk Tan Yee Boon.
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Businessman takes Sabah's entrepreneurial voice to world stage
Dexter Lau delivering his keynote speech at the 'Trade Connectivity and Global Expansion' High-Level Forum of the 15th Malaysia–China Entrepreneurs Conference. KOTA KINABALU (Aug 14): Malaysia–China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah president Datuk Dexter Lau has taken Sabah's entrepreneurial voice to the world stage with a compelling keynote at the 'Trade Connectivity and Global Expansion' High-Level Forum during the 15th Malaysia–China Entrepreneurs Conference. Held from August 12 to 14 in Guiyang, China, the event brought together nearly 1,000 government and business leaders from Malaysia, China, and abroad, cementing its role in promoting bilateral cooperation and regional economic integration. Speaking in an open, 'heart-to-heart' style, Lau, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad (KTC), shared practical business strategies drawn from KTC's transformation from a local enterprise into a regional FMCG powerhouse. He underscored how trade connectivity and global expansion can be leveraged to forge cross-border partnerships and unlock new markets. Recalling his time at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania — the world's top-ranked business school — Lau said a professor once told him he was 'not yet ready' to be an entrepreneur because he focused more on what he wanted to do than on profitability, returns and growth. That blunt assessment, he said, reshaped his outlook on building sustainable enterprises grounded in clear business models and executable strategies. Representing not just Sabah but the whole of Borneo — including Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei — Lau highlighted the island's strategic role in regional trade. With 12 years until KTC celebrates its 100th anniversary, he reaffirmed his commitment to mentoring the company's fourth-generation leadership to ensure it thrives for another century. 'Expanding globally is no longer a choice — it is a must,' he said. 'We are here to share how we achieved it, how we are doing it today, and where KTC is heading in the future. This is not just about market reach but about laying the foundation for sustainable, long-term growth.' Lau stressed that human capital is the cornerstone of any enterprise, and that corporate social responsibility is both a moral duty and a strategic investment. He said true 'win–win' results are not just measured in higher trade volumes but in sustainable practices that enhance local influence, broaden networks, and deliver benefits to all stakeholders. With opportunities arising from multilateral agreements such as RCEP, expanding infrastructure in Southeast Asia, and accelerating digital transformation, Lau urged businesses to act decisively in four areas — localisation, digital technology, strategic partnerships, and sustainability — to strengthen their position in the global marketplace. His keynote drew warm applause, reflecting the audience's appreciation for his strategic insight and pragmatic leadership. Lau's presence also reinforced MCCC Sabah's growing influence in connecting Malaysian enterprises to international opportunities. Adding a personal touch to the visit, Lau's mother, Datin Lim Fook Len, attended the conference in person to support her son and the MCCC Sabah delegation. Other speakers at the forum included Professor Chen Xiaoyun, Chairman of the Board of Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology and Chairman of Star Youth Culture Research Institute; Dato' Ho Kwee Hong, Divisional General Manager of Eco World Development Group Berhad; Grace Kwok, Chairman and Executive Director of Allied Sustainability and Environmental Consultants Group Limited; Han Ruiguo, General Manager of Hisense Electronic Co., Ltd.; and Professor Huang Ying, Secretary of the Party Committee of Guiyang University. The session was moderated by veteran Malaysian business leader Datuk Tan Yee Boon.
Borneo Post
16-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
MCCC Sabah sets up cooperative to better serve members, generate greater economic benefits
Su Khon Fen KOTA KINABALU (July 16): Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah has officially announced the establishment of a cooperative — Koperasi Usahawan Utama Sabah Berhad – to better serve its members and generate greater economic benefits. The cooperative is spearheaded by MCCC Sabah under the leadership of its president, Datuk Dexter Lau, with vice president Su Khon Fen appointed as acting chairman to oversee the cooperative's development and external coordination efforts. According to Su, the cooperative will be open for participation by MCCC Sabah members and is envisioned as a vital platform for driving economic collaboration, resource integration and platform-based development. It aims to create a dedicated space for collective entrepreneurship and cooperation, enabling members to share resources and create value together. 'The cooperative is founded on three core objectives: first, to serve as a platform for member collaboration and collective development; second, to act as a bridge linking government agencies with business resources; and third, to promote sustainable and platform-driven business cooperation mechanisms.' He added that the cooperative will establish a clear policy and constitution, detailing its investment structure, operational system, and project participation mechanisms. These guidelines will be officially announced at a later stage to ensure all members can participate under a transparent and equitable framework. In addition, the cooperative's board of directors will be carefully selected from among MCCC Sabah's current leadership, the Women Entrepreneurs Committee, as well as both new and existing members — combining experience, diverse perspectives, and execution capabilities to drive effective governance. 'Our initial goal is to raise RM5 million to fund the cooperative's launch and operational development, including platform setup, seed capital for projects, and supporting infrastructure.' The cooperative will be operated with a clear strategic vision, robust systems and steady resource integration, with the ultimate aim of delivering sustainable and stable economic growth returns for member businesses. 'While our priority is to serve members, we also welcome collaborations with government agencies, government-linked companies (GLCs), SMEs and NGOs. We seek to jointly explore a new model of shared prosperity through co-building and co-benefiting partnerships.' At present, Koperasi Usahawan Utama Sabah Berhad is actively building its platform and operational framework. It welcomes collaboration with partners who have viable projects, human resources, services, or land assets — with the shared goal of creating a sustainable and mutually beneficial community economic ecosystem.
Daily Express
24-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce appoints Auditor-General
Published on: Tuesday, June 24, 2025 Published on: Tue, Jun 24, 2025 Text Size: Datuk Dexter Lau accompanied by Vice Presidents Jacky Chin and Lau Jiin Woei, presenting the letter of appointment to Datuk Roger Chin. Kota Kinabalu: In a move to strengthen organisational governance and enhance financial oversight, the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah has officially appointed Datuk Roger Chin Ken Fong—Chamber member and former President of the Sabah Law Society—as its Auditor General. The appointment was formalised on June 23, with MCCC Sabah President Datuk Dexter Lau, accompanied by Vice Presidents Jacky Chin Thau Chung and Lau Jiin Woei, personally visiting Datuk Roger Chin at the Chin Lau Wong & Co law firm to present the official letter of appointment. This strategic appointment is part of the Chamber's ongoing efforts to reinforce internal checks and balances, ensuring transparency, compliance, and credibility in financial management. As MCCC Sabah continues to expand and deepen external engagements, a sound financial review framework is becoming increasingly vital to its sustainable growth. 'Our Chamber places great emphasis on institutional integrity and governance,' said Datuk Dexter Lau. 'We are confident that with Datuk Roger Chin's professional leadership, the transparency and efficiency of our financial operations will be significantly enhanced—laying a stronger foundation of trust between the leadership and our members.' He added that Datuk Roger Chin's deep legal expertise, combined with his extensive experience in civic and public affairs, as well as his longstanding commitment to integrity, make him the ideal candidate for this role. 'With his support, we look forward to further standardizing our financial audit processes and reinforcing institutional oversight as we work toward modernizing and systematising the Chamber's governance.' * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
13-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad plans RM100 million Industrial Park
Published on: Friday, June 13, 2025 Published on: Fri, Jun 13, 2025 Text Size: Lau said the strategic investment marks a major milestone in the group's five-year expansion plan and will position KTC as the region's largest FMCG distribution center, serving markets across Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei and Indonesia. Kota Kinabalu: Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad (KTC), a leading fast-moving consumer goods distributor in East Malaysia, has acquired 15 acres of land worth RM40 million at Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park KKIP to develop its largest integrated operations and manufacturing hub. The KTC Industrial Park represents a total investment of RM100 million and is expected to expand the company's operational capacity by 40 per cent while boosting revenue projections to between RM1.5 billion and RM1.6 billion. Advertisement Executive Director Datuk Dexter Lau said the strategic investment marks a major milestone in the group's five-year expansion plan and will position KTC as the region's largest FMCG distribution center, serving markets across Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei and Indonesia. 'This development will significantly enhance our logistics capabilities and operational efficiency while creating 500 new jobs, with priority given to hiring locals from underprivileged backgrounds,' he said in a statement, here, Wednesday. The Bursa Malaysia main market-listed company has already surpassed RM1 billion in revenue as of June 2025, operating from a current footprint of 500,000 square feet. Construction of the industrial park will commence soon, with the facility expected to strengthen KTC's supply chain ecosystem across East Malaysia. Additionally, KTC's board has approved a RM10 million investment in Sarawak, targeting a combined 50 per cent revenue growth in East Malaysia over the next two to three years. The company aims to reach a workforce of 2,000 employees across Malaysia and Brunei within the year. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
