GUIYANG: Datuk Dexter Lau, President of the Malaysia–China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah, showcased the entrepreneurial spirit of Borneo on the world stage when he was invited as a keynote speaker at the High-Level Forum on Trade Connectivity and Global Expansion, held in conjunction with the 15th Malaysia–China Entrepreneurs Conference here recently.
The three-day conference, from Aug 12 to 14, brought together nearly 1,000 government and business leaders from Malaysia, China and other countries, providing a strategic platform to strengthen Malaysia–China economic cooperation and regional integration.
Lau, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad (KTC), delivered a heartfelt presentation sharing KTC’s transformation from a local business into a leading regional fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) player.
He stressed that global success can only be achieved through clear strategies, disciplined management and sustained leadership across generations.
Recalling his time at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Lau revealed how a professor’s blunt remark that he was “not ready” to be an entrepreneur opened his eyes to the need to balance idealism with the realities of profit, returns and growth.
“Global expansion is no longer an option – it is an obligation. At KTC, our mission goes beyond market growth. We are building a foundation that will stand strong into the next century,” he said.
Representing Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei, Lau also highlighted Borneo’s strategic potential in regional trade.
With only 12 years to go before KTC marks its centenary, he aims to groom the company’s fourth-generation leaders to continue creating value for shareholders, employees and the community.
He also underscored that human capital and corporate social responsibility (CSR) remain central to long-term success, urging companies to act decisively in four strategic areas – localisation, digital technology, strategic partnerships and sustainability – to maintain global competitiveness.
His speech received resounding applause, reflecting recognition for the vision and pragmatic leadership of an East Malaysian entrepreneur on the international stage.
Adding a personal touch to the official trip was the presence of his mother, Datin Lim Fook Len, along with the MCCC Sabah delegation.
Other keynote speakers included Prof Chen Xiaoyun, Chairman of the Board of Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology; Dato’ Ho Kwee Hong of Eco World Development Group Berhad; Grace Kwok of Allied Sustainability and Environmental Consultants Group Limited; Han Ruiguo of Hisense Electronic Co., Ltd.; and Prof Huang Ying of Guiyang University. The session was moderated by veteran Malaysian businessman Datuk Tan Yee Boon.-pr/BNN
