mrca news - retailing : franchising : branding - vol.2 no.2

Vol 2 N

O 2 RM

8.00KD

N N

O:PP13818/02/2013(031900)

ISSN:2289-3377

02

LETT

ER

RETAILING | FRANCHISING | BRANDINGVOL 2 NO 2∣WM RM8 / EM RM10

THE LIFE AND PASSION

HELLO MR PRESIDENT!Introducing MRCA’s new President Dato’ Liaw Choon Liang JP A RETREAT IN THE CITYMegan Tan, Managing Director, Sompoton Spa A CUPPA OF SUCCESSAdli Wong, Managing Director, Coffeeland

of Founder & Chairman of Sunway Group, Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO

So easy with e-pay

For more information, kindly contact our Customer Support at +603-5623 6000 or visit us at www.e-pay.com.my

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Nature MRCA 210x297 Jun14.pdf 1 5/23/14 9:30 AM

VOL 2 NO 2 | MRCA NEWSLETTER2

CONTENTS

10 |

16 |

18 |

20 |

24 |

27 |

26 |

30 |

ON THE COVERTHE LIFE AND PASSION OF FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN OF SUNWAY GROUP TAN SRI DR. JEFFREY CHEAH AO

FOCUSHELLO MR PRESIDENT! Dato’ C.L Liaw is MRCA’s new President for 2014 - 2016

FRANCHISING TOWARDS 2020 Dato’ Syed Kamarulzaman shares his own vision for the furure of franchising in Malaysia

THE BLUE OCEANGive your business a head start ahead of your competition

A RETREAT IN THE CITYMegan Tan from Sompoton Spa shares her peaceful escape from the city

HOW FAR WILL YOU GO TO REACH THE TOPRavichandran Tharumalingam will take MRCA members a mountaineering adventure

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE A GOOD FRAN-CHISE MANAGER?Challenging yourself and pushing your limits will encourage self-developed says Ravichandran Tharumalingam, Global Expedition Club

A CUPPA OF SUCCESSAdli Wong, Coffeeland Sdn Bhd tells us why his brand leaves coffee lovers craving for more

CREDIT PAGEMRCA Board Members & MPH

FROM THE PRESIDENT Message from President of MRCA, Dato’ C.L Liaw

MRCA MEMBER’S LOGO PAGE

10

16

18

MRCA NEWSLETTER | VOL 2 NO 2 3

40 |

41 | 42 |

43 |

44 |

45 |

36 |

36 | 38 |

38 |

39 |

39 |

48 |

49 | 49 |

50 |

50 |

51 |

52 |

52 |

54 |

54 |

55 |

55 |

56 |

NEW MEMBERS• ADT Services • Brew & Bread • CLEVER • DF Pharmacy• Food Artist • Zeal Systems

GALLERY • The Branding Education Charity Foundation • Study tour down south • Guinness World Book of Records • Congratulatory Message • Happy Feet• Installation Ball 2014

LAUNCHPAD• GST Seminar • How to make good people stay put! • Grooming good leaders

FOR THE RECORD• May• June

THANK YOUThe journey with Dato’ Nelson Kwok

COURTESY VISIT • Nanyang• Sin Chew Media • China Press • The Star • Utusan Melayu• Karangkraf

TALKING POINT

50

46

30

Council membersMr Seak Thean Pow

Bagus Curtain Sdn Bhd

Mr Liew BinBrilliant Merchandising Sdn Bhd

Dr. Afendi Bin DahlanDR Group Holdings Sdn Bhd

Mr Ching Kok CheongFella Design Sdn Bhd

Ms Grace Chia Hui YenKluang Station F&B Sdn Bhd

Dr. Edmund LeeMyortho Footcare Sdn Bhd

Dato’ Syed Kamarulzaman bin Dato’ Syed Zainol Khodki Shahabudin

Perbadanan Nasional Bhd

Ms Choi Wei YeeSunlight Taxi Sdn Bhd

Mr Ricky Thye Kok LamTangible Aim Sdn Bhd

Mr Brian Tham Jee PingWatatime (M) Sdn Bhd

Chief Executive OfficerDato’ Ng Tieh Chuan

Distributors (Malaysia)MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd (5048-A)

Ground Floor, Bangunan TH, No. 5 Jalan Bersatu, Seksyen 13/4, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor DE, MalaysiaTel: 603-7958 1688 Fax: 603-7958 1623 E-mail: [email protected]

Advertising EnquiriesV S Ganesan / Ng Wee MingTel: 603-7960 4278 Fax: 603-7960 3278 E-mail: [email protected]

MRCA NEWSLETTER IS PRODUCED FOR MRCA BY

MPH Group Magazine (M) Sdn Bhd (771396-H)

Lot 1, 1st Floor, Bangunan TH, No. 5 Jalan Bersatu,Seksyen 13/4, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor DE, Malaysia

Tel: 603-7960 7334 Fax: 603-7960 3278 E-mail: [email protected]

MRCA IS PUBLISHED BY

Malaysia Retail Chain Association

A-5-2, 3, 3A, Level 5, Block A, Sky Park One City, Jalan USJ 25/1, 47650, Subang Jaya, Selangor.

Tel: 603-5882 4333 Fax: 1 700 810 950 Website: www.mrca.org.my

MALAYSIA RETAIL CHAIN ASSOCIATION MPH GROUP

PrinterMPH Group Printing (M) Sdn Bhd (142270-H)

No 31, Jalan 2/148A, Taman Sungai Besi, Industrial Park 57100 K.LTel: 603-7987 0966 Fax: 603-7984 0966

E-mail: [email protected]

Online Partner

All authors automatically agree to indemnify MRCA and MPH Group Magazine Sdn Bhd against any loss, costs, expenses (including legal fees), damages and liabilities that might arise from their own incapacity, negligence, breach of contract or other civil misdeeds. We reserve the right to edit all articles. Submit your articles to [email protected]. All rights reserved. Copyright © 2014 by MRCA and MPH Group Magazine Sdn Bhd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in the articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of MRCA and MPH Group Magazine Sdn Bhd. MRCA and MPH Group Magazine Sdn Bhd accept no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photography, illustration and other editorial materials.

MPH GROUP MAGAZINE

Chief Operating OfficerSwaminathan MV

General ManagerV S Ganesan

Senior EditorVimala Seneviratne

EditorAleyann Matthews

Production EditorShamsul Hidzry O Khairuddin

ContributorAzzura Soraya Hassan

Senior Sales ManagerNg Wee Ming

Sales ManagersFaridah IsmailRebecca Gun

Assistant Sales ManagerShubhashnee Radha

Sales ExecutiveJohn Reuben Kua

FINANCEAccountant

Barbara Tay

MPH GROUP PUBLISHING

General ManagerKuah Sze Mei

Senior Marketing and Sales Executive

Lilian Ng

CREATIVEHead of Department

Amy Heng

Deputy Creative Head (Magazine)Stephanie Yap

Senior Creative DesignersNg Seng Chee, Ngan Pooi Kuan

Creative DesignerAmanda Fong Seok Mei

CIRCULATION & RETAIL DISTRIBUTION General Manager

Tai Kwai Meng

General Manager (Finance)Kelvin Chong

ManagerKoh Sook Khuen

PatronTun Dr. Mahathir Bin MohamadFormer Prime Minister Malaysia

Board of AdvisorsYB Dato’ Sri Liow Tiong Lai

President of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA)

YB Dato’ Sri Mustapa Mohamad Minister of International

Trade & Industry Malaysia

YB Tan Sri Datuk Tee Hock Seng JP

Group Managing Director of Bina Puri Holdings Bhd

YB Tan Sri Barry Goh Ming ChoonChairman of MCT Consortium Bhd

Founder PresidentDato’ Eddie Choon

Poh Kong Holdings Bhd

Life Time Honorary PresidentDatuk Albert ChiangBonia Corporation Bhd

Mr Lee Hwa Cheng Sinma Jewellery Centre Sdn Bhd

Dato’ Tay Sim KimOSIM (M) Sdn Bhd

PresidentDato’ C.L Liaw JP

Focus Point Holdings Bhd

Immediate Past PresidentDato’ Nelson Kwok Teng Tong JP

Nelson’s Franchise (M) Sdn Bhd

Deputy PresidentMs Valerie Choo

Grand Surf Sdn Bhd (Red Box)

Vice Presidents Dato’ Dr KK Chai

KK Supermart & Superstore Sdn Bhd

Dato’ Garry Chua Rotol Food-Chain (M) Sdn Bhd

Mr Cheah See YeongGolden Scoop Sdn Bhd

Secretary-GeneralMs Shirley Tay Bee Koo

Sunrider International (M) Sdn Bhd

Deputy Secretary-GeneralDato’ Bruce Lim Au Choong

Seg International Berhad

Treasurer-GeneralDatuk Henry Yip Choong Hung

Dragon-i Restaurant Sdn Bhd

LETT

ER

RETAILING | FRANCHISING | BRANDING


Dato’ C.L Liaw JP

President,Malaysia Retail Chain Association

Greetings! Very quickly we have reached the mid-point of 2014. I hope this finds you all well and that all your business endeavours for the year are on track and moving full-throttle ahead. It gives me great pleasure to write to you as your new President for the first time in the June issue of our quarterly MRCA Magazine. This magazine is a showcase of our members’ success stories as well as a vault of information on branding, retail and franchise for our members as well as for budding entrepreneurs and students as well as the public. I thank you for your continued support in making the magazine a success each and every issue. On the 3 July 2014 we will gather as members and business comrades to attend one of our most prestigious events of the year – CEO Night 2014. It is my honour to present on the cover this issue, our keynote speaker for CEO Night 2014, Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO. Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, founder and chairman of the Sunway Group of companies, defines a successful and visionary entrepreneur. Proudly a Malaysian success story, his accomplishments are admired by Malaysians from all walks of life. I, personally as I’m sure all of our members as well are looking forward to hearing about Tan Sri’s climb to success as he shares his experience and his advice with all of us. It will indeed be a night of learning and sharing of valuable business knowledge. As I take on this new term as your President, MRCA will move toward ‘Keeping an eye on the future’. By focusing on the future it is my belief that we will be able to grow and mature together as one big entity. Members, your active participation in MRCA activities is a testimony to the strength of our association that is over 250 members and still growing. I thank you for your continuous support in making our association one of the most active associations in the country. Before I end, a very special thank you to Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah for gracing us with your presence and for being our honourable CEO this year. Lastly, I would like to extend my appreciation to the MPH team as well as the MRCA Secretariat who have done another outstanding job compiling editorials and association news and information for this issue. This magazine will not be possible without your hard work and dedication. We have a lot to be proud of, while we anticipate even more successes to come our way. I look forward to seeing all of you at CEO Night 2014!

FROM THE PRESIDENT

CUSTOMERS ARE SEARCHING FOR YOU!

Available onAPP STORE

Get in onGoogle Play

Malaysians are using on their mobile phones & tablets as they are ready to buy.

Let them find you business on our smartphone app, USSD sms channel, mobile site & website.

Join Malaysia's largest mobile directory service today.

30,000 app downloads on iOS & Android

2.2million monthly searches on USSD sms channel

2,000+ user-generated listings & images

www.findit.com.myGo Mobile | Get Results

List your business for FREE today!

Call Janet Chan at 012 659 6025


Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO Founder and Chairman of Sunway Group


Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO Founder and Chairman of Sunway Group

Sunway is celebrating its 40th year anniversary this year and MRCA takes great pride to invite the Founder and Chairman of Sunway

Group, Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, as the keynote speaker at the seventh (7th) MRCA CEO night on 3 July 2014. His keynote speech

is titled “Sustainable Growth that Lasts for Generations”.

THE LIFE AND PASSION

of Founder & Chairman of Sunway Group,

Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO

Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO | COVER STORY

Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Scholarship Presentation Ceremony witnessed by Tun Dr. Mahathir (centre).


H ailing from a small town of Pusing in Perak, Tan Sri Cheah furthered his tertiary education in accountancy and

business at Victoria University in Australia.

Passionate to be an enterprising businessman since young, Tan Sri Cheah left his accountancy job and started off a tin mining company, The Sungei Way Enterprise in 1974. After years of strong perseverance, great tenacity and resilience built from the experience of two economic crises, Tan Sri Cheah has built two successful townships.

He has turned a mined out 800-acre wasteland into wonderland, today known as Sunway Resort City, Bandar Sunway, and has converted a sleepy hollow in

Tambun into Sunway City Ipoh. With its comprehensive facilities and amenities, Sunway Resort City truly promotes a place where one can “Live, Learn, Work, Play, Be Healthy and Safe.”

A widely respectable visionary, Tan Sri Cheah has realised his dream not only as a successful entrepreneur but he has also built the largest education-focused social enterprise in Malaysia.

Sunway Group today is a huge conglomerate with core businesses in property and construction. Its 12 business divisions span across over 40 locations worldwide with 13,000 strong employees.

COVER STORY | Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO

Sunway Pyramid, one of the largest shopping malls in the world with a net lettable area of 1.8 million sqf.

Sunway Resort City - Malaysia’s First Green Township awarded by Malaysia’s Green Building Index, and an international destination where communities live, learn, work, play; and be healthy and safe.

Sunway Group today is a huge conglomerate with core businesses in property and construction. Its 12 business divisions span across over 40 locations worldwide with

13,000 strong employees


Tan Sri Cheah and Sunway have achieved many firsts in accolades and prestigious awards from around the world due to its unwavering commitment to deliver quality products and services.

Tan Sri Cheah attributes his success to three (3) core values;

1. Integrity We believe in doing the right thing at all times

2. Humility We believe in being humble, polite and respectful

3. Excellence We take pride in all that we do

Tan Sri Cheah also believes in confronting the issue at hand and not running away from it, and he values the best brains around which speaks of his beliefs in being “colour” blind and “religion” blind.

Tan Sri Cheah still holds close to his heart an unflinching passion to carry out regular site walk around the resort city, frequently encouraging rehabilitation of wasteland, planting and replanting

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat at Sunway City Ipoh.

Jeff’s Cellar at The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat - one of the world’s most unique wine cellars built within a 260-million-year-old limestone cave.


Integrity We believe in doing the right thing

at all times

Humility We believe in being humble, polite

and respectful

Excellence We take pride in all that we do

of greens, recycling of water, improving seamless connectivity and accessibility, and constant investment in upgrading infrastructures. He has restored the eco-system into his two townships.

Tan Sri Cheah strongly believes education is powerful as the late Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”.

Education has the power to eradicate prejudices, correct biases and move nations. Education has the power to change people, transform communities and shift paradigms.

Today Sunway Education Group comprises 12 learning institutions including Sunway University, Monash University Malaysia, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sunway College, Sunway TES and

Sunway International School. In his vision to build the “Harvard of the East”, Tan Sri Cheah has endowed all his equity across the institutions of Sunway Education Group, valued in excess of RM720 million to the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation (JCF) in perpetuity. JCF has to-date awarded more than RM165 million in scholarships to over 19,500 students since 1997.

Tan Sri Cheah hopes he is able to inspire the future generations to be

honest, be ambitious to succeed and to achieve greater heights in life. To him, entrepreneurship lies not only in the mere making of money, it lies in the thrill of creative effort and the satisfaction of achievement. He hopes his burning passion for philanthropy will inspire other rich Malaysians to give back to society like what he has done, and will continue to contribute to society.

“I aspire to inspire before I expire” – Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO. MN

COVER STORY | Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, AO

Sunway Velocity is a 23-acre integrated development and a new landmark of Kuala Lumpur featuring residential and commercial elements including a 1.4 million sqf shopping mall.

Malaysia’s First Elevated Bus Rapid Transit- Sunway Line (BRT) in Sunway Resort City connecting Setia Jaya KTM and the upcoming USJ6 LRT stations promising absolute accessibility and connectivity.

I aspire to inspire before I expire” – Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey

Cheah, AO.

2014 SUNWAY RESORT CITY, BANDAR SUNWAYAn engineering tour de force and a thriving megapolis receiving an annual visitations of 40 million. MALAYSIA’S FIRST GREEN TOWNSHIPAwarded by Malaysia’s Green Building Index.

“From wasteland to wonderland” Lee Kuan Yew, former Prime Minister of Singapore, during his visit to Sunway Resort City.

Malaysia’s first elevated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Mohd. Najib Tun Razak during his visit to Sunway Resort City for the inauguration ceremony of the elevated BRT-Sunway Line.

1986 BANDAR SUNWAY, ONCE A TIN MINING WASTELAND


MRCA welcomes Dato’ Liaw Choon Liang JP from Focus Point Holdings Berhad,

MRCA President, 2014 - 2016.

FOCUS | New President

T aking over the reigns from Dato’ Nelson Kwok, Dato’ Liaw has his eye set on the future of the association. “As President, I

am committed to providing the kind of leadership the association requires to achieve its objectives, implement its strategies and work as a team to meet our vision,” says Dato’ Liaw. Since 1992, MRCA has provided a platform for

members to share experiences, expand networking, organize educational trainings and programs to enhance their members’ potential so they will be ready to expand their market domestically and globally. Going into its 22 year, MRCA has come a long way since its inception. Their members who comprise 250 leading retail chain store operators as well as franchisors

covering more than 10,000 outlets throughout Malaysia. Dato’ Liaw plans on taking the association to the next level with his theme ‘Keeping an eye on the future’. He believes that as retailers one shouldn’t be complacent and that trailing behind the competition isn’t an option. Dato’ Liaw explains that the future of the business world especially the

Hello, Mr President!


retail industry is filled with opportunities and challenges. “We need to be ahead, we need to be ready,” says Dato’ Liaw. “We need to do everything it takes to make the retail industry vibrant, exciting and profitable,” he adds. Having identified the 5 Keys Of Success to make his theme a reality, Dato’ Liaw is confident that being able to consistently adapt and be ahead of the competition is up to the determination of the retailer.

“I plan to follow these 5 Keys Of Success, in this way I can ensure we are ahead of our competition and will have taken the necessary steps to successfully keep an eye out for the future”:

1. Members’ improvement• MRCA Academy will continue

playing an important role by organising professional tutorials and workshops on franchising, financing and human resource management.

• From time to time, up-to-date information on the analysis of the current economy, business plan, product invention and lifestyle.

• A chance to constantly improve and benefit from the MRCA Academy.

2. The healthy expansion of the retail industry

• MRCA will work closely with various government departments especially the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Co-operative and Consumerism.

• To seek further collaborations in order to resolve the issues related to human resource, business plans, import and export processes and taxation.

• Update members on the latest policies from the regulatory bodies, and to ensure that members are getting the right and accurate information.

3. Raise awareness on welfare and social responsibility

• Never forgetting the less fortunate in our society. Dato’ Liaw’s personal philosophy is, the more success we achieve, the greater the responsibility to give back to the society.

• In the coming years, MRCA will be more actively involved in anti-poverty campaigns by giving financial aid and scholarships to the less fortunate.

4. Opening the door to new members

• Inviting new members so the association continues to grow. New members are also able to inject new perspectives, new ideas

and gusto into MRCA.• More aggressive publicity and

marketing on the new membership programme will be implemented for attracting more potential and quality entities.

5. To foster good relationship and team building within members

• Organise Family Days, Marathon and Sports Day to foster a lasting relationship among members and also promote a healthier lifestyle.

• Mount Kota Kinabalu Climb 3.0 in July 2014. Because of the overwhelming response from members the number of participants was increased from the initial 28 persons to 40 persons.

Dato’ Liaw attributes the tremendous success of the association to all the past presidents before him. “Today, our members are powerful economic contributors, offering more than 1,000,000 job opportunities,” says Dato’ Liaw.

“Now is the time for me to continue with this mission by giving my dedication to continuously lead MRCA to achieve the highest level of excellence,” he concludes. MN


Franchising towards 2020

A s an agency under the Ministry of Finance aimed at providing complete franchise solutions, Perbadanan Nasional Berhad

(PNS) makes its entry into the Malaysian Retailer-Chains Association (MRCA), with Managing Director Dato’ Syed Kamarulzaman Bin Dato’ Syed Khodki Shahabudin serving as a committee member for the term of 2014 - 16.

“We have been given a mandate to manage the franchise industry in Malaysia; only several organisations in the country have been entrusted with grooming members of the retail industry, with MRCA of course being one of them. PNS is a member of various and associations and organisations, as I believe it is important that we don’t assume we know everything, and continue learning from others in the industry,” explained Dato’ Syed of the decision to join as a member of MRCA. Impressed with the extensive network MRCA has built, the MD himself is glad to be able to give a personal touch in the collaboration: “MRCA has connections with industry giants, and while usually I don’t get involved and assign a PNS representative for other associations, as an MRCA committee member I hope to contribute towards the growth of the franchising industry by understanding and interconnecting members of our networks,” he said. As an inter-organisation collaboration, Dato’ Syed hopes PNS and MRCA joining forces will continue to encourage the widening of networks: “While it may

Dato’ Syed Kamarulzaman of PNS shares his own vision of the future of franchising in Malaysia.

By Azzura Soraya Hassan

FOCUS | PNS

sound a bit like wishful thinking, I would like to see us sharing, connecting and linking up with other associations. Not with the intention to make everyone into one large organisation, but since everyone has the same vision, we could appoint different captains to achieve our targets and move towards that collective vision.” Commending the association’s efforts in keeping members busy and informed, Dato’ Syed believes MRCA is serving its members well: “I see MRCA keeping busy with monthly meetings and activities such as trade missions, while also keeping everyone updated via published material. There are plenty of opportunities for members to tap into the organisation’s network, as the committee has and continues to build rapport. The all-important practice of knowledge sharing goes a long way, and members are exposed to an ongoing education and are made known of available opportunities. Overall, there are lots of activities for members’ enjoyment – which I think is great!”

What PNS brings to the tableWhile MRCA covers a larger spectrum and PNS specialises in franchising, Dato’ Syed hopes to bring more awareness to MRCA members regarding franchise opportunities: “While MRCA manages to keep members abreast of opportunities locally and overseas, PNS looks at developing franchise businesses where our services include encouraging those with ‘intention’ to turn their

businesses into franchises, or those in what we call the ‘pre-franchise’ stage.” PNS is eager to contribute towards helping members realise their potential: “In order for franchising to be successful, there must be collaboration throughout the industry. PNS has the manpower and resources to conduct trainings, and we would be happy to invite MRCA members to attend our sessions and enjoy different views,” said Dato’ Syed. PNS also hopes to be able to fill in the gaps where the agency possesses advantage: “As an association, MRCA doesn’t have financing yet, whereas PNS has the Ringgit and sen to assist people in realising dreams. For example, some potential business owners might not know about accessing financial assistance, and MRCA members who meet the criteria can actually apply to PNS for funding support to be franchisees,” said Dato’ Syed, adding:

“We also have rapport with some ministries, and connections with investment banks. Besides sharing information, we can also act as a bridge in connecting people in our industry.” Also in future plans, PNS is developing ways in which it can help franchisors and franchisees acquire business locations:

“With many franchises in locations such as shopping malls and increasing rentals every year, businesses end up working for the landlords. PNS is hoping to offer support for location and premises, whereby we plan to acquire buildings and spaces that franchisees can rent directly from us,” he explained.


Vision of the futureIf there’s one thing Dato’ Syed seeks to remind others of, it is of what’s to come.

“We have our International Franchise Seminar coming up this year, and currently we are busy preparing ourselves for GST in April 2015, and how we can get our members ready for it while removing the fear of its implementation,” he shared. However, while current affairs help to keep PNS busy, Dato’ Syed is still very much focused on the agency’s main mission:

“Franchising is about sharing wealth,

knowledge and returns. With a strong structure, a franchise can sustain itself for a long period and can be as successful as foreign brands. Currently, around 55 Malaysian brands have ventured overseas to over 50 countries; with around 1,900 Malaysian businesses out there globally. And while that’s a good number, it could still be better.” In building more successful homegrown brands, Dato’ Syed hopes that by networking with other organisations, more Malaysian businesses can be

showcased to go beyond our country’s borders. “We ought to be proud to see Malaysian brands all over the world. And I don’t just mean F&B, as even our other categories of retail franchise have the potential to penetrate foreign markets.” The main barrier in getting Malaysian businesses to franchise overseas is, in Dato’ Syed’s opinion, a lack of mindset to explore: “We are relatively comfortable in Malaysia, and we are satisfied with what we have. Businesses aren’t too competitive with each other, and too many are satisfied being ‘jaguh kampung’. But what we want is to open their minds to dare to be successful. Why focus on just the Malaysian population of around 30 million people when there are billions out there? There needs to be desire and will power,” he said. Using a Malaysian franchise success story as an example, Dato’ Syed comments on how the right attitude can ensure longevity:

“There needs to be motivation to go the franchise route – if you have a model for it, then agencies such as PNS can help you do business. Businesses can sometimes disappear with the people who set them up, but with franchising a system and sets of standards are put in place that will ensure its continuity, and it becomes a legacy. Look at people like Dato’ Nelson Kwok [of Malaysian franchise Nelson’s] for example, he has around 800 outlets overseas, and he’s still very active in the scene, attending franchise conferences whenever he can. Visionaries like him can see where the money is, and he wants to leave his trademark.” Moving towards Vision 2020, Dato’ Syed is hopeful of seeing a mindset change whereby more business owners consider the country’s growth as part of their motivation: “We have six years to go before our goal of becoming a developed nation; time is running short and those not yet on board have a lot of catching up to do. I would like to see people put self-interest behind, for 2020 to materialise it won’t be due to the government’s action, as it is us, the citizens who can make it happen. I truly hope to see more businesses working towards helping the country achieve its vision of a developed nation by the year 2020.” MN


GIVES YOUR BUSINESS A HEAD START AHEAD OF

YOUR COMPETITIONBy Dr. Meysam Safari, SEGi University and Associate Professor Dr. Shaheen Mansori, Berjaya University College of Hospitality

THE BLUE OCEAN

FOCUS | Branding

M any businesses are stocked in handling day-to-day work, hoping to make ends meet. Those who

are highly capable in managing their businesses are fighting for their share of the market against their similar minded competitors. Only a handful of people try to think out of the box, which is the reason every now and then we hear about a new billionaire making a fortune from a simple, but revolutionary idea. In the US airline industry, competition was as fierce as always in the 1960s and different carriers were fighting for passengers to the teeth. This was the business scenario until 1971 when Southwest Airlines came up with a revolutionary idea in the industry that made them one of the most


BLUE OCEAN ACTIONS FRAMEWORK

Strategically Reduce Cost

Strategically Invest In

NEW VALUE CURVE

to our customers and ask a few simple but fundamentally important questions. Answers to these questions may lead us to a ground-breaking idea to revolutionize the industry in which we are competing to the best of our ability. However before raising the questions, we need to deeply think about the values, important features and factors that shape our offers.

Which factors should we eliminate from our offer? There are always some complementary products or services that were not originally a part of the offer, but over time we (or some of peers in the industry) started to offer them as a part of the package; and now, we assume that it must be there. Due to this assumption, we may try to provide fancy services to our customers which subsequently can increase the amount of money, resources, or time that are spent on them. What if our customers do not need these services? For example, what

If we look into our business

process, we may be surprised to

know that we are spending a lot on things that do not contribute much

to our offer.

reputable leaders in the industry: “Low Cost Carriers”. The fact is it wasn’t because they invented something amazing. So the questions is why didn’t anyone else think of this amazing idea before and how do we come up with mind-blowing ideas like these ourselves? Creating an uncontested market space, making competition irrelevantVarious researchers have tried to answer this question. A few approaches have been developed over the course of time however one of the most popular strategic methods is the Blue Ocean Strategy, developed by Kim and Mauborgne in 2005. They suggested that there is a systematic way of thinking and approaches towards business competition that may result into developing a competitive advantage over others. Blue Ocean suggests that we need to go back to the basics, and think again. We need to look at the core values of the products or services that we are offering

if customers do not require eating while flying? Or having a luxurious environment when they just want to have a cup of coffee and a nice chat with friends at a decent but comfortable place? In general, we should ask ourselves; what if we eliminate some

REDUCE

Which factors should be reduced well below the

industry’s standard?

ELIMINATE

Which of the factors that industry takes for granted

should be eliminated?

CREATE

Which factors should be created that the industry

has never offered?

RAISE

Which factors should be raised well above the

industries?


of these features that don’t do any good to our customers but which they will have to pay for anyway?

Which factors should we reduce from our offer?If we look into our business process, we may be surprised to know that we are spending a lot on things that do not contribute much to our offer. To make things worse, our customers do not care, or require, those particular features. They would be equally satisfied with just the product alone, even if we reduce these features. For example, do our customers really need fancy packaging, or would they prefer to receive it in a regular package, but at an affordable price? In the airline industry, budget airlines reduced the comfort features of airline travel to the same level as trains and buses by reducing the leg-space or seat comfort, but at the same time, still offering the same quality of product but at a lower cost to their customers. This strategy converted many non-air travelers to potential customers or simply increased the market size of travelers who opted to pay less and receive the same product. Which factors should we raise in our offer?Sometimes we assume that the quality of one particular feature of our offer is to the best and optimum level. However, it may not be the case from the customers’ point of view. In the service and particularly

We need to look at things from the customers’ point of view and find the

needs that have never been

satisfied before.

The Only Way to Beat the

Competition Is to Stop Trying to Beat the

Competition.

retail industry, some small actions like adding a small option to make our service more convenient may have a crucial impact on customers. In the case of budget airlines they increase the number of direct flights (points of sales) which make their service more accessible to a wider range of customers. In addition, by implementing more frequent periodical maintenance system, they could reduce the number of flight cancelations and delays, raising safety and reliability.

Which factors should we create in our offer?There is always room for something new in our business, and there are always new things coming to the market. We need to look at things from the customers’ point of view and find the needs that have never been satisfied before. Creating new value for customers does not necessarily always lead to a higher price or perhaps more complications in the business process. Implementation of new approaches such as online booking or usage of e-money can reduce the cost of business on one hand but at the same time create more convenience for customers at the retail stores.

Overall, there are many of our competitors who dare to ask the same questions, and some, even find the golden answer. However, not many people dare to go for it, as they are concerned about risks. If all people are like them, we wouldn’t have as much progress as we have today. So, try to think out of the box and always remember that “The Only Way to Beat the Competition Is to Stop Trying to Beat the Competition” (Mauborgne). MN

FOCUS | Branding

Size : 297mm (W) x 210mm (H) - A5 sizeBleed : 303mm (W) x 216mm (H)Text Area : 273mm (W) x 190mm (H)


A Retreat in the City

Megan Tan, Managing Director of Sompoton Spa speaks about her spa business that offers a peaceful escape

from the hustle and bustle of the city.

M ention the word ‘SPA’ and it brings about feelings of utter bliss for women and even men across all cultures.

The word in Latin is acronym of “salus per aquam” or “health from water.” It is also the name of a small village in Belgium where hot mineral springs were used by soldiers of the Roman Empire to treat aching muscles and wounds from a battle. For Megan Tan, a spa lover herself, going into the spa business comes as second nature to her. “I love spas and massages and I saw a business potential for it in Malaysia.” Tan, who hails from Muar, Johor, started her career in the travel industry. “I’m just a small town girl who was shy, but my time in the travel industry as a tour guide helped me come out of my shell.” She spent nine years as a tour guide for tourists from different countries and different walks of life and that opened her eyes to the world around her. “I handled politicians and even military personnel and a lot of very well to do foreigners. It was through meeting people that I gained my self-confidence.” Her experience in the travel industry brought to light the lack of spas available in Malaysia for the tourist market. “I went to Bangkok and Bali in 2003 where I spent some time learning all I could about massages and spas.” Getting into a business for the first time wasn’t easy especially with limited funds. She, however, found a business partner and together they opened up a day spa in KL Plaza that today stands as the newly refurbished Fahrenheit. “We had a simple 3,000 square feet of space set up offering quick spa services to tourists.” Tan’s travel industry connections helped with the business as they tied up with several travel

FOCUS | Sompoton Spa

….I believe that employee

satisfaction is very important to

ensure loyalty.


The Sompoton Spa brand focuses

on quality spa treatments in an exclusive environment.

agencies to include spa treatment as part of the travel itinerary while in Kuala Lumpur.

“Business was good, we were busy everyday,” confirms Tan. However, one of the biggest challenges she faced was that manpower was an issue and the turnover of her spa employees were extremely high. Then, in 2006, Tan decided to take it up a notch and venture into exclusive and luxurious spas by bringing it into urban 4-5 star hotels. It was then that Sompoton Spa was born catering to upmarket tourists, expatriates and locals. “The first Sompoton Spa is located at Istana Hotel,” she says. Providing unique treatments designed to enhance well-being, Sompoton Spa’s signature massages use traditional Malay techniques as well as a combination of Shiatsu, Swedish and Balinese techniques.

“The name Sompoton is derived from an ethnic Kadazan musical instrument - I wanted the spa to have a Malaysian name,” explains Tan. Employees at the Sompoton Spa come from East Malaysia as well as Bali. “Some of our therapists have been with us since day one, I believe that employee satisfaction is very important to ensure loyalty,” she says. As part of their efforts to grow the business even further and elevate the brand, the Sompoton Spa has launched their own brand name while carrying the Organic Spa brand with ESSE ORGANIC SKINCARE AND BODY CARE from South Africa, certified by Ecocert (France) and Vegan International as part of their spa menu.

“The Sompoton Spa brand focuses on quality spa treatments in an exclusive environment.” The Sompoton Spa has won a few accolades which include the Best Customer Service Award in 2006 and the Best Spa Ambience Award in 2011 by Malaysia’s Spa & Wellness. Currently, Sompoton Spa has six outlets in Kuala Lumpur with a new outlet set to open in One City Skypark.

“Our future plans include franchise expansion overseas,“ Tan shares. Currently, Sompoton Spa is an active participant in MATRADE exhibitions. “Most recently we went with MATRADE to Chengdu, China, and the response for our franchise was very good.” “I am confident that the

franchise will do well overseas as there is a demand for tropical spa experiences in countries such as China.” Tan is an active member and Vice President of the Association of Malaysian Spas, as well as a member of the Malaysia Retail Chain Association and Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce. She says that being a member of various associations has helped her build her network and cultivate her business acumen. “I occasionally do some consulting work for entrepreneurs who intend to venture into the spa business.” She also encourages entrepreneurs to look into spas as a business possibility. “It is a business that will bring good returns but my advice to first timers is to try a franchise because it is a safer business model.” One of the pioneers in the spa industry in Malaysia, Tan’s entrepreneurial journey has been one of vast experience built over the years. However, she says that

the journey is far from over and that she plans on aggressively working on her Sompoton Spa franchise expanding locally and internationally. Tan says that success comes to those who believe that learning is a lifelong process.

“I’m still learning and I will continue to keep learning in the years to come.” Please visit www.sompotonspa.com MN


common in our business environment. Mountaineering will eventually build self- discipline in every participant especially in preparation, planning, doing research and going through the training which is physically and mentally challenging.

Persevering through the challenges – Mount Kinabalu 3.0

“During the Mount Kinabalu climb, MRCA members will be subjected to extreme and harsh conditions that will test their perseverance and determination,” says Ravi.

“Resources are very limited during extreme

How far will you go to reach

the top?Self-development through mountaineering adventures

pushes your limits and challenges you to attain success shares Ravichandran Tharumalingam, Mountaineer,

Global Expedition Club.

M ountaineering or mountain climbing is all about facing challenges and perseverance. It is about putting your

hands and feet onto rocks and ice and snow and finally reaching the summit. It’s a sport of attaining, or attempting to attain, high points in mountainous regions, mainly for the pleasure of the climb. No matter where you want to go, the mountains, the woods or the river, you will experience amazement like you’ve never experienced before. Malaysian Mount Everest Solo Climber and Lead Mountaineer for MRCA’s July climb to reach the Mount Kinabalu summit, Ravichandran Tharumalingam describes hiking as a passion where people explore and face many outdoor challenges that will instill a successful attitude and character that will ultimately help self development, self confidence and team building. The enhancement of inner perceptual and spiritual life may also be experienced through mountaineering adventures such as nature studies, aesthetic contemplation, meditation, painting, photography, archaeology or historical research, and indigenous culture among others. These activities may also be physically rewarding and may also be pursued for the purposes of finding peace in nature, enjoying life, and relaxing. Mountaineering adventures are also frequently used as a medium in education and teambuilding.

Global Expedition Club’s leadership development through mountaineering is a set of free active learning opportunities focused on 1 - 20 days of outdoor workshops that highlight alternative

FOCUS | Self-Development

leadership education methodology or specific leadership skills with a minimal time of commitment. The focus here is dedicated to advancing experiential learning. They are committed to helping build effective leadership both in the next generation of managers and throughout the organization today. Reaching the top and staying thereThe intensifying competition for resources and demand for high performance are pressing firms to become more flexible, more results focused, and more fast-acting. Companies are finding that such initiatives require able leadership, and the challenge for organizations and business schools alike is to help build effective leadership both in the next generation of managers and throughout the organization today. There is an immense need to help the community hone their leadership skills.

Some of the leadership skills that participants will face during mountaineering trips are something

conditions. As such members are trained to be very efficient in managing their resources,” he adds. He explains that many difficulties and challenges will come a mountaineers way therefore problem solving skills will be required and tested through these extreme conditions in very limited time spans.

“I believe that through the journey, members will start to build a positive mind set as we are getting closer to our target,” explains Ravi. He confirms that the feeling of success and accomplishment felt when members have reached the peak will elevate their self-confidence as well as cultivate a positive mind-set that will help in their daily life and business challenges. Traveling in a group will give them an opportunity to improve their communication, understanding and teamwork skills.

40 MRCA members will climb Mount Kinabalu for charity from 20-23 July 2014 led by their new President Dato’ Liaw. MN


What does it take to be a

good Franchise Manager?

Franchise | FOCUS

W hen a prospective franchisee would like to know more about any particular franchise

brand and its offering, the right person that he/ she should be in contact is the franchise manager. When there is any clarification needed on any terms related to the franchise program, an instant image that comes to any prospective franchisees’ mind is surely the franchise manager. It is safe to say that the franchise manager is the face of any franchise brand when it comes to dealing with prospective franchisees. A franchise manager is someone who act as a liaison for the prospective and the existing franchisees as well. Below are some general guidelines on criteria of a good franchise manager:

Franchise Managers organize and plan the franchise division of an organization. It is the franchise managers’ duties to spearhead franchisees recruitment activities, promote franchise programs, clarify terms and conditions, supervise new selected franchisees, provides training, upkeep information on business policies and procedures as well as monitor franchisees’ progress in the business. In brief, franchise managers are responsible for selecting, recruiting and developing new franchisees for the business. Therefore time management skills are a highly sought after skill.

It is recommended that a franchise

Sahar Sahad and Lydia Jominin from Smart Franchise Partner explores the criteria of a good franchise manager.

manager have a bachelor’s degree in business management or marketing. Any experience in management, or hands on experience in a related business would be an added advantage. A franchise manager is expected to have good verbal and written communication skills. This is a pre-requisite criteria as he/ she will be in active communication with new franchisees conveying the business strategy, policies, procedures and operations updates. Furthermore, strong leadership skills are also important in managing franchise owners expectations.

Communication comes in many forms while speaking and writing using good language and tonality will open up good possibilities. It is wise to select

those who can speak and write well to sit in a position of a franchise manager.

A great salesman will be able to sell a regular pen worth RM2.50 for RM100.00. We definitely do not want that! We pitched ‘sales’ during the presentation of the franchise package, but only selling accurate facts and figures. During the recruitment process, it is important to manage both party’s expectations. Misleading information may lead to misunderstandings and ugly conflicts in a future.

Franchise managers should be someone who knows the franchise philosophy and its best practices in and out. In Malaysia, a decent level of knowledge of the Franchise Act 1998 and its application to a business is crucial for franchise managers. This is to ensure that organizations are being advised and led appropriately by franchise managers during its course running a franchise program. Unlike other professions, the franchise manager’s position has yet to be a well-known position in the workforce. Nevertheless, the franchise manager cannot be a missing link in any franchise organization. Therefore, picking the right candidate to fill up the post is crucial even before the franchise program is launched. MN

The ability to multitask

Possess high business acumen

Communication skills

Being trustworthy and giving accurate information

Franchise Knowledge

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K


A Cuppa Of Success

FOCUS | Coffeeland

W hat makes a perfect cup of coffee?

“For a coffee lover, the coffee experience is satisfaction in every sip,” says Adli Wong, Managing Director, Coffeeland Sdn Bhd. A perfect cup of coffee, he says, is a combination of the taste and aroma, and the adrenaline that accompanies that perfect brew. Following the popularity of ice blended coffee beverages, Coffeeland’s speciality is their ice-blended premix variety. However, before conjuring up perfect cups of coffee, Wong experienced some trying times in his early 20s. “I worked and put myself through college and graduated with a marketing degree,” he shares. He began his first marketing job working from his own home at the Imbi Flats and drawing a salary of RM2,000. “I bought a fax machine, delivered the goods and even did the accounts. It was literally a one-man show. But I learnt a lot during this time.” Having built a foundation on hard work and perseverance, Wong’s business acumen started to stir so he began exploring possibilities in business. He started to explore the ‘hang out’ culture before the

Coffeeland leaves coffee lovers craving for more, shares Adli Wong, Managing Director of Coffeeland Sdn Bhd.

“I believe that every business decision and

direction we took was guided

by God.”

days of Coffee Bean and Starbucks, and saw a potential in a simple ‘good cup of coffee’. “The younger generation then was just starting the culture of liking to be ‘seen’ and to feel good and look good. They were adventurous and of course, they were willing to spend,” he states. Leveraging on coffee being a lifestyle product, Wong pursued the idea of going into the coffee business. “It all began in 1998 when we created the iced crushed cappuccino that became an instant favourite,” Wong explains. “We knew there was potential to go further and so we continued to develop our range of ice blended beverages.

“Our established brand products include Java Blenz® Ice-Blended Premix, Tropicaland® Real Smoothies, Teazane® range and our new Jacque Trevinci Topping Sauce,” shares Wong. With passion and innovation close to his heart, he opened his flagship coffee store selling his coffee creations. “We called it Coffeeland Café and we ran it for five years from 2000 to 2005.” He believes that his experience, did indeed grow with the business. Soon, Wong became a coffee entrepreneur, and began conducting training on how

to appreciate coffee. Coffeeland, he states, provides a variety of coffee that’s affordable and yet oozes quality in every cup. By 2007, Coffeeland went full scale into manufacturing ‘Ice-Blended Bevetages.’ The distribution channels were opened and growing fast for both the local and overseas market. “We followed MATRADE on a trade fair to Hong Kong where we secured our first distributor abroad.” Subsequently,


We have benefitted greatly from MATRADE’s

assistance in helping us with

our footing abroad.”

they travelled with MATRADE to other shows that took them to Dubai, Singapore and Japan, among others.

“We have benefitted greatly from MATRADE’s assistance in helping us with our footing abroad,” says Wong. He encourages more entrepreneurs, especially those starting out, to explore what assistance might be available for them from the government to help them grow their business. “The truth is, help is available, but you will need to explore what the government has to offer.”

His partner in the business and at home is his wife Jacqueline Lim whom he fondly refers to as his ‘lady boss’. She has been part of the sweat and tears of Coffeeland. “Together we have achieved more than we ever dreamed we could.” Apart from their own hard work and dedication, Wong attributes the success of Coffeeland to God. “I believe that every business decision and direction we took was guided by God,” says Wong. A man of immense faith, Wong names MRCA’s immediate past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok as his mentor. “My wife

and I were just young entrepreneurs but Dato’ Nelson encouraged us by giving us sound advise. It was he that invited us to be a part of MRCA,” he says. As active members of the association, Wong says it has helped to widen their network as well as broaden their business experience. Wong’s advice to entrepreneurs is that hard work pays off. “Also, the energy that younger people have should be used positively to climb the ladder of success.” He also stresses the importance of humility. “If you are humble, you will find it easier to learn from others.” Honesty and integrity are two values very close to Wong’s heart. “It’s important for entrepreneurs to keep their companies corruption free. Transparency is very important in business.” He admits it is easier said than done but he believes that encouraging suppliers and customers to have a value system is a good start. Currently, Coffeeland supplies its coffee range to over 800 outlets nationwide and exports to various countries in the Asia Pacific region.

“We have, in the pipeline, plans to create a healthy beverage range seeing that people are now becoming more health conscious.” As far as coffee entrepreneurs go, we can safely say, Wong takes the cake and the cuppa!

Visit us at www.coffeeland.com.my MN

Safe Area 21cm (w) x 29.7mm (h)

Trim Area

Bleed Area


prescribed by a doctor or physical therapist is the main treatment in correcting runners knee. Stay away from high-impact activity if you have this condition.

Managing knee painPrevent knee pain by keeping the muscles that support your knees strong and flexible. Start out slowly. Walk before you run - before you engage in strenuous high impact activity such as jogging or running, try walking for a week. If walking causes knee pain, you shouldn’t be running. Warm up before working out. Give your body a chance to recover from exercise. If you do high impact activities take every other day off. Avoid running up and down stairs and full squats. Doing knee exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles that support the knee are vital for knee pain and injury prevention. Proper footwear & Orthotic Insoles is also important, especially if walking or running on hard surfaces. Keep your weight under control. Reducing one’s weight reduces stress upon the knee.

Most knee pain is treated conservatively such as Knee Braces, but there are situations in which surgery is required. Athletes are at an elevated risk for sudden injuries that may require surgery, such as torn ligaments in the center of the knee or certain types of fractures. People with advanced knee osteoarthritis may need knee replacement surgery if they are severely limited in day-today activities because of their condition. This is optional surgery and is a last resort.

Most knee conditions respond to a combination of non-invasive treatments such as applying heat or cold, temporarily restraining from activities that aggravate pain, and medications that target pain and inflammation. Exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the knee help reduce stress on the knee joint and prevent re-injury.

Managing Knee Pain

D id you know your knees are the most easily injured part of the body?

The largest and most complicated joint, the knee is used for everything from standing up, sitting to walking, running, etc. It’s a weight-bearing joint that straightens, bends, twists and rotates. All these motions increases your risk of acute or overused knee injuries. Acute knee injuries (including torn ligaments and torn cartilage) are often caused by twisting the knee or falling. Sports that involve running, jumping and sudden stopping and turning, such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and baseball, as well as contact sports such as football, wrestling and hockey increase the risk of an acute knee injury. But more common than sudden knee injuries are injuries caused by overuse.

By Dr. Edmund Lee, Renonwed Orthotic Consultant in Malaysia

Overusing your kneeKnee injuries caused by overuse (including muscle strain, tendonitis and bursitis) may develop gradually over days or weeks. Pain is often mild and intermittent in the beginning and worsens over time. When muscles and tendons are stressed even slightly beyond their capabilities, microscopic tears occur. (Inflammation, which is part of the healing process, is what causes the pain). These tears must be given a chance to heal before subjected to the same activity to avoid overuse injury. Treat overuse injuries early to prevent chronic problems.

Knee pain is commonly caused by doing too much too soon when you haven’t exercised for a long period of time - especially high-impact aerobics; walking, running or jumping on hard surfaces or uneven ground; excessive running up and down stairs (When you walk upstairs you are putting pressure on your knees that is equivalent to four times your body weight, when running up the stairs it can be eight times your body weight).

OsteoarthritisKnee osteoarthritis is a common cause of knee pain. The risk increases with age. Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis involving degeneration of the cartilage. Exercise is vital to maintain strength and flexibility of muscles supporting the knee, which reduces the stress on the knee joint.

The runner’s kneeRunners knee (also called patellofemoral pain or anterior knee pain) is a common cause of knee pain in young people (not just in runners). The pain is usually diffused pain behind the kneecap. Symptoms often worsen after climbing stairs, jumping, running, or after a period of sitting. Caused by poor tracking of the kneecap, appropriate exercises

CherasNo.13, Jalan Midah Timur, Taman Midah, Cheras, 56000 Kuala LumpurT: 03-9131 4988 F: 03-9133 8955Petaling JayaA-G-7, Block Allamanda, 10 Boulevard, PJU 6A, Lebuhraya Sprint, 47400, Petaling Jaya, Selangor T: 03-7727 9989 F: 03-7727 7989Kota KinabaluLot 8, Ground Floor, Block G, Lintas Jaya, Uptownship Jalan Lintas Kepayan, 88200 Kota KinabaluT: 088 727 131


NEW MEMBERS | Brew & Bread

A Brewing SuccessShare your brand’s inception and growthBrew & Bread is definitely the place for COFFEE LOVERS! We are coffee enthusiasts and fine food lovers dedicated to promoting a Coffee and Sandwich culture to our fellow Malaysians. We discovered that the lifestyle of having coffee and sandwich is a common daily pleasure and is treated as a proper meal in the Western culture but not seen in Malaysia, hence we wanted to bring this culinary enjoyment to the mother land. We started off as a specialty coffee bar in 2011. Having steered through the hardship when specialty coffee wasn’t widely accepted we are now recognized for serving quality specialty grade coffees. Our

roasting facility is in the development stage and soon we will be offering a wide range of specialty grade coffees from all well-known coffee producing countries.

What is your current presence in Malaysia?We are currently running two outlets as of May 2014. We’re looking at another flagship outlet featuring a complete brewing showcase and a bakery gallery. So far we have been featured on various main stream media and social media such as food & lifestyle blogs. What kind of training and support do you offer your brand?Our management possesses professional certifications from the Specialty Coffee Association of Europe ranging from Barista

Skills, Brewing, Grinding, to Roasting. Our founder was appointed to participate in Food &Hospitality Asia 2014 Barista Competition as a Sensory Judge. We also provide adequate training for our employees from the bottom up and a full range of support is available. Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?The specialty coffee market is growing at an exponential rate. In the pipeline we are establishing a full spectrum of roasting facilities. We are vying to be the pioneer provider of specialty coffee to cater for the growing demand by cafes and restaurants in Malaysia. MN

Keeping retailers Safe and SoundShare your brand’s inception and growthIn 1985 we began as Sensormatic Malaysia Sdn Bhd supporting retailers in Malaysia with anti-theft solutions. Acquired by Tyco in 1992, we’re a global security solutions company and today positioned as one of the key strategic brands serving the retail vertical globally. Aside from improvement in Sensormatic products, our TrueVUE solution has started implementations in Malaysia for the Traffic Intelligence feature. This allows retailers to have better visibility on their store conversion rates and using data points to make better marketing and staffing decisions. We’re a one-stop shop that offers two major categories of solutions – electronics article surveillance (EAS), video surveillance, access control, burglar alarm for Security & Loss Prevention; and traffic intelligence, inventory intelligence applications for Store Performance.

What is your current presence in Malaysia?Apart from our headquarters in Kuala

NEW MEMBERS | ADT Services

Lumpur we have a presence in all 13 states across west and east Malaysia, Our solutions are deployed by major retailers in Malaysia – helping thousands of stores in their loss prevention initiatives. Sensormatic’s comprehensive tagging solution is able to protect merchandise in wide ranges of retail formats such as luxury, fashion, department stores, hypermarket, electronics, health & beauty, bookshop, etc.

What kind of training and support do you offer your brand?Providing good post-sales support to our retail customers is key priority. All customers would benefit from a 3-pronged approach:1. All customers would receive a Welcome

Kit that contains useful and vital information on how to get maximum benefit from the Tyco Retail solution.

2. Onsite training will be conducted on product features and also include customer engagement skills.

3. Integration with customer’s Standard Operating Procedures to ensure seamless efficiency of retail operations.

We also offer a different Service Level Agreements (SLA) and product warranty to give Tyco customers complete peace of mind.

Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?Our Security and Loss Prevention solutions will continue to help retailers minimise shrink for better bottom-line. Omni-channel retailing is a big trend and in order to achieve that, retailers need to have high inventory accuracy and integration across their various channels. Sharing global practices while

“localizing” the solutions to meet the different needs of retailers in Malaysia means Tyco remains committed to being Malaysia‘s trusted retail solutions provider, delivering proven services and building long term relationships with the industry. MN

* Terms & Conditions Apply

UP TO

Stainless Steel

Selected Assorted Plate & Bowl

(Assorted Design)

All Artificial Flower

Dinner Set (34 pcs)

Buy 1 Free 1

HARI RAYASpecial

3 Layer Tray

Tea Set (13 pcs)

Cake Tray

www.kkhomedeco.com facebook.com/kkhomedeco Customer Careline: 016 2112 119

Visit our KK Home DecoBranch now!

MRR2, Ampang Tesco 016 3308 517

Plaza Citra, Kajang 016 3308 515

SACC Mall, Shah Alam 016 3308 522

Giant Hypermarket, Kota Damansara 016 6983 528

Jalan Sireh, Klang 016 3308 043

Jalan Kuala Kangsar, Ipoh 016 3308 519

Nilai 3, Warehouse (CHD) 016 3308 147

Nilai 3, Warehouse (NPB) 016 2170 832

MITC Ayer Keroh, Melaka 016 3308 230

Jalan Tebrau Pandan, Johor Bahru 016 3308 005

Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, Kota Bahru 016 3308 003

MPH 20140618.indd 1 18-Jun-14 4:42:15 PM


NEW MEMBERS | DF Pharmacy

The HEALTHY businessShare your brand’s inception and growthKedai Ubat Dong Foong was founded in 1978 with the aim of being a ONESTOPTraditional Chinese Medicine provider which would help our customers achieve optimal health and well being. In 2001, DF Pharmacy was founded to provide customers with the highest level of customer service and care. DF Dietetics Division was established in 2013 to further broaden our founder’s vision to empower the community in managing their health.

What is your current presence in Malaysia?Our headquarters is in Kajang and we have two new branches opening in the second half of 2014. These two branches are designed as concept stores to showcase our founder’s vision in ‘Delivering Health’.

What kind of training and support do you offer your brand?As part of DF corporate social responsibility, we firmly believe in nurturing talented young professionals for the future of Pharmacy, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Dietetics profession. We have a good track record of providing internship opportunities to pharmacy, dietetics and nutrition students. In addition, we have established a structured and free ‘Fresh Graduate Training Program’ for Nutrition and Dietetics fresh graduates.

Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?We foresee ourselves to be a key player in Malaysia’s healthcare industry providing a holistic approach to health. MN

The CLEVER choice in education

Share your brand’s inception and growthCLEVER Learning Programme (CLEVER) is owned by ATC Education Group (Alliance Titans Corporation Sdn Bhd). We offer an array of quality educational programmes and services to serve students of different age groups and with different needs. Our services range from pre-school education, primary and secondary tutoring classes, creative and critical mind training under several well recognised brands, namely “CLEVER Learning Programme”, “JuMeng Academy” and “Dakids Mandarin Programme”. Founded and established in 2006, we are a professional learning centre staffed with competent trained tutors with well-designed training programmes. Our motto “The Right Education, In The Right Hands” has been our philosophy toward excellency in education. Our objective is to provide a comfortable and ideal environment to enhance the enthusiasm and interest of

the students in their study and personal growth through education.

What is your current presence in Malaysia?With the exclusive systematic training programmes, coupled with our professionalism and philosophy, CLEVER has expanded its centres rapidly in the recent years. Currently, we have 10 centres with more than a thousand students in Klang Valley and many more to come. CLEVER has been a trusted brand and students as well as parents have contributed to the rapid growth of our group with the present flagship.

What kind of training and support do you offer your brand?We provide comprehensive in-house training. Besides teaching techniques, the management flow system and most importantly in the area of our culture in education which forms an integral role

in building our outstanding brand in the education industry.

Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?CLEVER will continue our professionalism and philosophy in promoting quality training programmes with our branding for the benefits of our students as a whole for now and years ahead. We foresee a bright future for our group, besides our expansion of our flagship in the Klang Valley and other parts of the country in the next 5 years, ATC Education Group is planning to explore a larger scale in the arena of the education industry such as the publication of teaching materials, audio visual teaching aids, children learning disorder program, on-line learning and other related fields. MN

NEW MEMBERS | CLEVER

www.clever.com.my


Your Total POS SolutionsShare your brand’s inception and growthZeal Systems (M) Sdn Bhd was first established in February 2003 and has grown from a distribution entity to a one -stop complete solution centre in the past 10 years. Today it is one of the top solution providers for the retail industry. In 2009, myZSM Sdn Bhd was incorporated to provide the relevant support and services to Zeal Systems (M) Sdn Bhd. This is the Smart Contact Centre which offers Project Implementation resources as well as remote and field support coverage. The overall

Zeal Systems | NEW MEMBERS

business volumes at Zeal Systems (M) Sdn Bhd has grown to a level where there is now a need to have an extended “arm” specializing in providing such field services and support. What is your current presence in Malaysia?With more than 10,000 installation bases nationwide, and a strong network of business partners, we have the capability to cover a wide variety of clients, from SMEs to medium-sized chains and onto some large public listed organizations as well. Our business provides the platform upon which they can operate comfortably and we are able to adapt quickly to their ever-changing needs in the pace of the market. What kind of training and support do you offer your brand?We have a long term strategy to be the

“Most Preferred ESP (Enterprise Solutions Provider)”. We are geared to be THE ONE-

STOP centre that provides the widest range of POS Solutions, from service support to solutions consulting, including the development of integrated strategic business partnerships. Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?We envision positioning our brand as a representative icon for entrepreneurial success, a symbolic recognition where many other aspiring businesses would be attracted to be our partners. We believe we can be and will be, a brand that extends a credible business affiliation potential and a “Window-of-Opportunity” for our existing as well as prospective clients and offer a promise that there is at the end of the day, a value in their partnerships with Zeal Systems (M) Sdn Bhd. Currently only in Malaysia and Singapore, we are ready to spread our wings to the other economies in Southeast Asia and beyond. MN

Spreading happiness through good food

Share your brand’s inception and growthIncorporated on 12 April 2010, Food Artists (M) Sdn Bhd focuses on manufacturing happiness via art and science for the greater good of mankind. Our famous ‘Burger Bakar Abang Burn’ business started with the first outlet at Dagang Avenue foodcourt, Ampang on 26 February 2012. The success of the Ampang outlet was phenomenal and became an instant sensation. Four months later, the second outlet started its operation at Ramal Junction food court, Kajang and within 4 months of operations the investment was regained. What is your current presence in Malaysia?We own several prominent food brands in Malaysia. Apart from the 21 outlets of ‘Burger Bakar Abang Burn’, FASB also owns a successful steak house joint, the

Food Artists | NEW MEMBERS

‘Toowoomba Deli & Meats’ in Setapak. ‘Burger Bakar Abang Burn’ serves “delicious, big and worthy” burgers while ‘Toowoomba Deli & Meats’ focuses more on delivering

“happy steaks to make your heart smile”. Apart from that, we also have a new business called, “Pop-a-corn”. The brand specializes in unique gourmet popcorn with a view to

“create new beautiful memories”.

What kind of training and support do you offer your brand? Food Artists (M) Sdn Bhd takes pride on our purpose of manufacturing happiness, through art and science for the greater good of mankind. Therefore, it is necessary to attend a training session whenever a new franchisee signs up. FASB also provides major marketing support through our Facebook Fanpage (nearly 527,000 likes) and other great marketing channels and activities. With

great training and marketing support by the company, the franchisee entrepreneur skills will definitely be upgraded.

Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years?In the next 5 years, we plan on spreading happiness through all of the brands for all Malaysians. Apart from spreading happiness through business and making people succeed in their entrepreneurship, FASB will also focus on touching a person’s heart and at the same time, being a part of their lives filled with happy memories. FASB’s determination to touch people’s hearts is evident by their active charity programs making it part of the FASB DNA. MN


The Branding Education Charity

FoundationRewards Hard Work

GALLERY | Branding Education Charity Foundation

C lose to the heart of all MRCA members is the Branding Education Charity Foundation that awards members’ children

on a job well done for their UPSR, PMR, SPM and STPM results. On the 20 March 2014, during MRCA’s 17 AGM, students who performed exceptionally for their UPSR and PMR examinations were present to collect their award cheques that were awarded to them by Dato’ Tay Sim Kim, Past President and founder of the Branding Education Charity Foundation. MRCA and all its members would like to take this opportunity to congratulate these students on a job well done while wishing them continued success in their educational endeavours.

Charity and giving back to society is part of MRCA’s mission to make a difference in Malaysian society. Other activities that have been carried out under this foundation include visits to orphanages, old folks home as well as bringing cheer to the needy during the festive period with donations in cash and kind. The objectives of the MRCA Branding Education Charity Foundation are:-

• To receive and administer funds for medical, education and charitable purposes.

• To provide medical and surgical facilities and services.

• To organize, carry out and support schemes for the relief of human suffering and treatment of sickness and diseases.

• To assist, aid and give relief and to render financial assistance to the poor, distress and needy.

• To provide education assistance to the needy and the most deserving students. MN

UPSR 2013

No Company MRCA Member Relationship Applicant Name Result

1 Father 7A

2 Father 6A 1B

3 Mother 7A

4 Mother 6A 1B

5 Mother 5A 2B

6 Clara International Beauty Group Father 6A 1B

7 Mother 6A 1B

8 Father 5A 1B 1C

9 Father 5A 2B

10 Mother 7A

11 SEGI College KL Mother 5A

12 Mother 6A 1C

13 Mother 5A

14 Father 5A 1B 1C

PMR 2013

No Company MRCA Member Relationship Applicant Name Result

1 Father 7A

Bonia Corporation Berhad Lim Eng Boh Ms Lim Zhi Ying

Tashima Development Sdn Bhd Goh Kim Yong Ms Goh Hui Pin

City-Link Express (M) Sdn Bhd Thilagavathy a/p Raju Ms Lashiny a/p Thamarai Selvan

City-Link Express (M) Sdn Bhd Hung Nyok Hwa Ms Koo Jia En

City-Link Express (M) Sdn Bhd Soo Wey Lin Ms Goh Shu Qing

Woo Wee Kang Mr Woo Jian Jin

Coffeeland Sdn Bhd Chuah Bee Leng Mr Lim Qing Ren

Fella Design Sdn Bhd Tanggaraju A/L Renganathan Ms Sakthy Linggeswari

PCQ Hair & Beauty Products Sdn Bhd Velu A/L Nadarajan Ms Monisha A/P Velu

SEG International Bhd Hew Ling Sze Mr Dexter Woo Teng Koon

Fazilah Binti Mohamed Mr Ridwan bin Muhammad Shah Khuzar

SEGi Holdings Sdn Bhd Lee Siew Peng Mr Wong De Lorn

Sunsuria Development Sdn Bhd Rosnani Binti Hasan Nor Nazirah Afiqah

Vern's Holding Sdn Bhd Ng Chuan Hoo Ms Yvern Ng Ee Vern

Bonia Corporation Berhad Lee Swee Heng Ms Carmen Lee Jia Wen No Company MRCA Member Relationship Applicant Name Result

2 Mother 7A 1B

3 Mother 7A 1B

4 Mother 8A

5 Mother 8A

6 Mother 8A

7 Father 8A

8 Mother 7A 1B

9 Father 7A 1B

10 Father 8A

11 Mother 8A

12 Mother 7A

13 Father Mr Nigel Ian Cross 7A

14 Mother 7A

15 Mother 8A

16 Mother 8A

17 Mother 8A

18 Father 7A

19 Father 7A 1B

Bonia Corporation Berhad Lee Yee Mun Mr Ma Zhung Khoon

City-Link Express (M) Sdn Bhd Cindy Lau May Ih Ms Marissa Chong Shu Min

Clara International Beauty Group Sdn Bhd Chong Tsuey Yoong Mr Wong Khai Jian

De' Western Rangers Sdn Bhd Kok Fong Siew Ms Lee Ghai Xin

Fella Design Sdn Bhd Ruby Lai Seow Mei Ms Pearl Loong Wei Xian

Golden Scoop Sdn Bhd Nor Hisham bin Abdul Rahim Ms Nurul Syahirah Binti Nor Hisham

Hai-O Raya Bhd Yeoh Ah Booi Ms Ong Lay Xuan

Malaysian Healthcare Sdn Bhd Ching Jia Wei Ms Carmen Ching Hui Yee

Ninetology Marketing Sdn Bhd Ramanathan A/L Letchumanan Ms Ghayathri A/P Ramanathan

Ninetology Marketing Sdn Bhd Ng Siew Yuea Ms Gan Yi En

PCQ Hair & Beauty Products Sdn Bhd Chan Mei Wan Mr Chen Yu Xiang

SEGi College KL Antoney Cross A/L Aloysius Cross

SEGi University Gan Mee Hong Ms Jillian Chiam Shen Lin

SEGi University Chen Lai Fun Ms Leong Kah Kei

SEGi University Nurhayati Yeoh Abdullah Mr Muhammad Hafizuddin bin Mahdir

Shins Corporation Sdn Bhd Teh Yu Gen Mr Hui Zhi Yan

Sunrider International (M) Sdn Bhd Jerry Lim Lian Sek Ms Krystle Lim Mae Kuan

Tangible Aim Sdn Bhd RickyThye Kok Lam Mr Thye Ze Yu


Johor Study Tour | GALLERY

Study Tour Down SouthAs one of his first activities as the new President, Dato’ Liaw led a group of

MRCA members on a study tour to Johor from the 22 – 23 May 2014.

P articipating members gathered at Sky Park, One City early on 22 May 2014 to begin their study tour to Johor. The first stop on

the way to Johor was The Shore at Melaka River. In Johor, members made various site visits which included Country Garden at Danga Bay, Marrybrown Headquarters and Eco World Developer. Apart from fostering a closer relationship between MRCA members, study tours are part of MRCA’s range of activities offered to their members to expand their business network and explore possibilities. MN


GALLERY | Guinness Awards

RETAIL CHAIN GIANTS WIN BIG

AT THE MALAYSIAN GUINNESS WORLD BOOK OF RECORDS

MRCA members proudly bag a series of awards from the Guinness World Book Of Records ceremony held on the

30 April 2014 at One World Hotel, Petaling Jaya.

T he Prime Minister, Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Sri Mohammad Najib Abdul Razak presented MRCA

members with a series of awards at the Guinness World Book of Records Awards ceremony under the retail chain category. MRCA members are made up of the movers and shakers of the retail industry in Malaysia and are brand owners of some of the most popular and well-known brands in the country. And the winners are:

COMPANY RECORD TITLE

1 7-Eleven Malaysia Sdn Bhd Largest Convenience Chain Store

2 Bonia Corporation Bhd Largest Leather Store Chain

3 Clara International Largest Beauty Centre

4 Fitness Concept Specialist Chain Sdn Bhd Largest Fitness Specialist Chain Store

5 Focus Point Holdings Berhad Largest Optical Chain Store

6 Golden Scoop Sdn Bhd Largest Ice Cream Speciality Chain Store

7 King’s Confectionery Sdn Bhd Largest Confectionery Chain Store

8 Kopitiam Asia Pacific Sdn Bhd Largest Kopitiam Chain

9 Modern Mum Sdn Bhd Largest Maternity Boutique Chain

10 Nelson’s Franchise (M) Sdn Bhd Largest Corn In A Cup Franchise Outlet

11 OSIM (M) Sdn Bhd Largest Healthcheck & Care Equipment Chain

12 Pets More Sdn Bhd Largest Pets Chain Store

13 Poh Kong Holdings Berhad Largest Jewellery Retail Chain

14 Popular Book Co (M) Sdn Bhd Largest Bookstore Chain

15 Secret Recipe Cakes & Café Sdn Bhd Largest Café Chain

16 Senheng Electric (KL) Sdn Bhd Largest Electrical Outlet Chain

17 Sinma Jewellery Centre Sdn Bhd Largest Costume Jewellery Retail Chain

18 Sushi Kin Sdn Bhd Largest Sushi Restaurant Chain

19 Thai Odyssey Sdn Bhd Largest Thai Spa Operator

20 Urban Idea Sdn Bhd Largest Sandwich Chain

21 Chatime Largest Pearl Milk Tea Beverage Chain

22 BMS Organic Largest Organic Retail Chain

23 Eu Yan Sang Sdn Bhd Largest Herbs & Healthcare Retail Chain


Congratulatory Message | GALLERY

MRCA MEMBERS RECEIVE HONOURS

Congratulations to MRCA members Dato’ Law Ban Seng and Dato’ Loh Yuen Tuck.

D ato’ Law Ban Seng, Group Managing Director of LBS Logistics Sdn Bhd has been conferred the Darjah Indera

Mahkota Pahang ( D I M P ) which carries the title Dato’ during the Istiadat Pengurniaan Darjah Darjah Kebesaran Negeri Pahang, 1 May 2014 by Duli Yang Maha Mulia Sultan Pahang .

Dato’ Loh Yuen Tuck, Managing Director of eTRS GTF SYSTEMS has been conferred the Darjah Indera Mahkota Pahang ( D I M P ) which carries the title Dato’ at the Istana Pahang Kuala Lumpur in conjunction with the Sultan’s 40 years reign on 20 May 2014 by Duli Yang Maha Mulia Sultan Pahang . MN

Dato’ Law Ban Seng Dato’ Loh Yuen Tuck

LOOKING FOR A NEW INVESTOR FOR PROFITABLE FRANCHISE OUTLET


GALLERY | Healthy Feet & Health Solutions Carnival

HAPPY FEET!Healthy Feet and Health Solutions Carnival was held on the 30 May – 1 June

in conjunction with World Foot Awareness month.

O ur feet take us everywhere we want to go, but do you know that they are one of the most neglected parts of our body?

Optimum foot health is more important than many of us think. The Healthy Feet & Health Solutions Carnival In Conjunction World Foot Health Awareness Month took place from 30 May to 1 June 2014 targeted to educate people not only about the importance of healthy feet but general health as a whole. With activities for all ages and walks of life, it was a fun filled three-day event which educated and entertained all at the same time.

The two day event featured a Healthy Feet Talk by The Director of MyORTHO Dr. Edmund Lee and Chui Ling where they touched on everything you need to know about foot care. The public were educated on what it takes to keep your feet healthy. The audience was also given an insight as to how foot problems may lead to knee and back pain as well as how to choose the right orthotics for your child. The public were treated to demos and free tests carried out by Focus Point, Zell-V, Dr. Kong, Seaways Bamboo Salt and a free foot screening session from MyORTHO. Apart from that, the crowd was entertained by a Zumba Fitness Dance Performance, Cooking Demo and health talk. There were also fun contests and activities for the children. The event was a wholesome combination of a family day out and cash donations were made to the Tiratana Orphanage Charity to encourage charitable values among those present. The public enjoyed a fun filled carnival and some even went home with vouchers and lucky draw prizes. MN


Installation Ball | GALLERY

Thank you Dato’ Nelson,

Congratulations Dato’ Liaw

I t was an emotional night as MRCA members bid adieu to their outgoing President Dato’ Nelson Kwok and gave their incoming President Dato’ Liaw

Choon Liang a warm and exciting welcome into office. The celebration was held on 17 April 2014 where 19 newly elected council members were sworn in during a grand celebration at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The Guest of Honour for the night was YB Dato’ Sri Hasan Bin Malek, the Minister of Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism. In his inaugural speech to MRCA members, Dato’ Liaw stressed the importance of keeping ahead of their competitors. “We, as

The 2014 Installation Ball was held at the Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur on 17 April 2014.

retailers, cannot just catch up. We need to be ahead, we need to be ready. With the theme of “Keeping an eye on the future”, we can all do what it takes to make the retail industry vibrant, exciting and profitable so that MRCA can be taken to the next level,” he said. Dato’ Liaw is also the President / CEO of Focus Point Holdings Berhad, one of the leading optometry outlets in Malaysia. YB Dato’ Sri Hasan Bin Malek said in his speech, “The retail business is a key part of the modern Malaysian economy, and an integral part of our country’s economic future through mutual support and working hand in hand, I believe that this

1

2


1. From Left: MRCA Immediate Past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok & MRCA President Dato’ CL Liaw.

2. Sitting From Left: MRCA Life Time Honorary President Dato’ Tay Sim Kim, Datuk Albert Chiang, MRCA founder Dato’ Eddie Choon, MRCA President Dato’ CL Liaw, Guest of honor YB Dato’ Sri Hasan Bin Malek, Malaysian Minister of Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism, MRCA Immediate Past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok, MRCA Board of advisor YB Tan Sri Barry Goh, MRCA Deputy President Ms. Valerie Choo, MRCA Life Time Honorary President Mr. Lee Hwa Cheng & MRCA Vice President Mr. SY Cheah. Standing From Left: MRCA Vice President Dato’ Garry Chua, MRCA Council Member Dato’ Syed Kamarulzaman, Mr. Brian Tham, MRCA Treasurer Datuk Henry Yip, MRCA Council Member Mr. Ricky Thye, Dr. Edmund Lee, Mr. Seak Thean Pow, MRCA Secretary General Ms. Shirley Tay, MRCA

will guarantee the growth and success of the retail industry even further. For this reason, I am glad for the establishment of MRCA.” A night filled with music and good food, it was indeed a grand send-off for the former committee members and a rousing welcome for the new office bearers for 2014 - 2016. MRCA is all set to reach even greater heights under Dato’ Liaw’s Presidency while keeping an eye on the future. MN

3

4

5

6

7

GALLERY | Installation Ball


Deputy Secretary General Dato’ Bruce Lim, MRCA Council Member Ms. Grace Chia, Ms. Choi Wei Yee, MRCA Vice President Dato’ Dr. KK Chai, MRCA Council Member Mr. Ching Kok Cheong, Mr. Liew Bin & Dr. Afendi.

3. From Left: MRCA Life Time Honorary President Dato’ Tay Sim Kim, MRCA founder Dato’ Eddie Choon, Datin Joyce Goh, MRCA President Dato’ CL Liaw, YB Dato’ Sri Hasan Bin Malek, Malaysian Minister of Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism, MRCA Immediate Past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok, Datin Caro Ooi, MRCA Life Time Honorary President Datuk Albert Chiang & MRCA Life Time Honorary President Mr. Lee Hwa Cheng.

4. From Left: MRCA Life Time Honorary President Dato’ Tay Sim Kim, Datin Joyce Goh, MRCA founder Dato’ Eddie Choon, MRCA President Dato CL Liaw, YB Dato’Sri Hasan Bin Malek, Malaysian Minister of Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism, MRCA Immediate Past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok, Datin Caro Ooi, MRCA Life Time Honorary President Datuk Albert Chiang & MRCA Life Time Honorary President Mr. Lee Hwa Cheng.

5. From Left: MRCA Deputy Secretary General, Dato’ Bruce Lim, MRCA Board of advisor YB Tan Sri Barry Goh, YB Dato’ Sri Hasan Bin Malek, Malaysian Minister of Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism, MRCA Immediate Past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok &

MRCA President Dato’ CL Liaw.6. VVIP & VIP of the night. 7. From Left: Guest, MRCA Life Time Honorary

President Datuk Albert Chiang, MRCA Members Mr. Andy Goh, MRCA Board of advisor YB Tan Sri Barry Goh, YB Dato’ Sri Hasan Bin Malek, Malaysian Minister

of Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism and MRCA Immediate Past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok.

8. From Left: MRCA Legal Advisor Dato’ Manjit Singh, MRCA Council Member Mr. Ricky Thye, MRCA Treasurer Datuk Henry Yip, MRCA Council Member Mr. Ching Kok Cheong, MRCA Vice President Dato’ Garry Chua, MRCA Deputy President Ms. Valerie Choo, MRCA Life Time Honorary President Dato’ Tay Sim Kim, MRCA Founder President Dato’ Eddie Choon, MRCA President’s Advisor Dato’ Dr Jennifer Low, MRCA President Advisor Dato’ Sri Low Jee Keong, MRCA President Dato’ CL Liaw, YB Dato’ Sri Hasan Bin Malek, Malaysian Minister of Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism, MRCA Board of advisor YB Tan Sri Barry Goh, and MRCA Immediate Past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok, MRCA Life Time Honorary President Datuk Albert Chiang, MRCA Life Time Honorary President Mr. Lee Hwa Cheng, MRCA Vice President Mr. SY Cheah, MRCA Vice President Dato’ Dr. KK Chai, MRCA Secretary General Ms. Shirley Tay, MRCA Deputy Secretary General Dato’ Bruce Lim, MRCA Council Member Mr. Seak Thean Pow, Ms. Choi Wei Yee, Mr. Brian Tham, Dr. Afendi, Ms. Grace Chia, Dr. Edmund Lee & Mr. Liew Bin.

9. YB Dato’ Sri Hasan Bin Malek, Malaysian Minister of Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism.

10. MRCA President Dato’ CL Liaw. 11. MRCA Immediate Past President

Dato’ Nelson Kwok.

8

9

10

11

7


Let's stay ahead of GST

LAUNCHPAD | GST

M alaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced on 25 October 2013 that Malaysia is ready

to introduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) at six percent on 1 April 2015. On 7 April 2014, the GST Bill 2014 was passed in the Dewan Rakyat.

What is GST?Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a multi-stage consumption tax on goods and services whereby each point of supply in a production chain is potentially taxable up to the retail stage of distribution. At the same time suppliers are entitled to refunds of GST incurred on business inputs. The basic fundamental of GST Malaysia is its self-policing features which allow the businesses to claim their Input tax credit by way of automatic deduction in their accounting system.There are a lot of changes by implementing GST and these changes will have an immense impact especially on businesses. Just to name a few major challenges that business companies will face if they are not ready for GST.

• Does your staff know how to offset input tax against output tax?

• Are you aware of the heavy penalties and fines for late filing, late submission and mistakes made in preparing GST returns?

Retailers want to know all they can about the GST before it goes into implementation on 1 April 2015, YYC Consultant is at hand to help.

• What are the effects of your existing contracts when GST is implemented?

• Does your company have sufficient cash flow when GST is implemented?

• Does your staff know what transactions are subject to GST and how to raise a tax invoice?

With the GST registration already starting on 1 June 2014 and a rather brief lead start that business companies still have, you will need to act fast and wise to take the vital steps to ensure your company is GST compliant by 1 April 2015.

The GST seminar was held at the MRCA Secretariat on 24 April 2014 from 9am. With over 40 years of experience in accounting and being the few accounting companies in town that have experience on the GST, YYC will guide you to stay ahead by mastering the ins and outs in order for a smooth transition into GST. At YYC GST Consultant, we had specially designed a

6 month course that includes 6 modules, to help you get geared up.

Malaysia is all ready to go full on GST on 1 April 2015; the question now is, are you? YYC GST Consultant is always here to serve. For more information on any GST related matters, you are very much welcome to contact our marketing manager Ms. Hycintha at 016 - 2201963 or Ms. Gwen at 012 - 2469988. MN


Managing people in the retail industry seminar was held on the 21 May 2014.

The leadership seminar for human resources was held at the MRCA secretariat on 9 April 2014.

How to make good people stay put!

Grooming good leaders

Managing People In The Retail Industry | LAUNCHPAD

Leadership Seminar | LAUNCHPAD

H eld on the 21 May 2014 and attended by 40 MRCA members, this workshop ‘Managing People In The

Retail Industry’ dealt with one of the most biggest challenges of the retail industry

– your human resource. The speaker Mr Lim Siew Loon took members through the art of trying to reduce employee turnover which was and is a common problem in the retailing industry. Mr Lim explains that some retailers are facing a turnover rate exceeding 30 per cent per year making it an incredibly “expensive” affair. The workshop successfully covered some basic strategies to reduce this problem. Based on applicable motivation theories, Mr Lim

O n the 9 April 2014, over 50 MRCA members attended a leadership seminar for human resources at the

MRCA Secretariat from 9.00am – 5.30pm. Participants were briefed on how to groom good leaders from their outlook to retaining good talent. The list of speakers that day were experienced industry specialist : Dato’ Michael Wong who spoke about Talent Retention, Ms Evelyn Ching who touched on grooming your brand and frontliners,

specifically applied the Alderfer’s concept of motivation which stresses on “Existence, Relateness and Growth”. Upon completion of the workshop, members who attended understood the importance of providing their employees a sense of belonging to the company and also opportunities to advance in their career. MN

Dato’ Lawrence Chan on the importance and benefits of training your people and Dato’ Bruce Lee spoke about the role of MRCA as a sectoral training committee in developing training programmes. Members who participated benefited greatly from the seminar which covered a wide range of topics on human resource issues and as well as advancement. Human resources is one of the biggest challenges facing Malaysian retailers today. MN


networking in May

members come together in June

FOR THE RECORD | May Meeting

FOR THE RECORD | June Meeting

T he first monthly meeting under the new Presidency of Dato’ Liaw was held at the MRCA Secretariat on 15 May 2014 at 4pm. In his

welcoming speech, Dato’ Liaw welcomed all members and thanked them for their attendance at the installation ball at the Majestic Hotel on 17 April 2014. He encouraged the sentiment of being one big MRCA family, a family that shared knowledge and experience and looked out for one another. He encouraged all members to strive and keep their eye on

M RCA members got together on the 19 June 2014 for the June monthly meeting. Vice President Ms Valarie Choo

chaired the meeting in Dato’ Liaw’s absence. At the meeting, students who exceled in the recent STPM 2013, SPM 2013,

the future, staying true to his theme for his presidency. He also briefed members on the upcoming MRCA CEO Night 2014 which will be held in July at the Grand Ballroom, Sunway Resort Hotel & SPA. Dato’ Liaw was pleased to announce that the prestigious keynote speaker would be Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, Founder & Chairman of Sunway Group. The meeting ended with dinner and networking among members. MN

PMR 2013 received their encouragement fund. The fund rewards members’ children who perform outstandingly in their examinations. Ms. Valarie reminded members about MRCA’s biggest night of the year – CEO Night 2014 who will have Sunway Group’s Founder and Chairman, Tan Sri Dr. Jeffrey Cheah as this year’s CEO. The meeting ended with three business presentations from Raymond Woo (Arori Sdn Bhd), Melissa Ng (Star Publication) and Peter Marley (Worldcard Services) and dinner as well as time for members to network. MN


Our journey with MRCA's Immediate Past President Dato' Nelson Kwok,

2012 - 2014

Dato’ Nelson Kwok | THANK YOU

M RCA’s new President Dato’ Liaw, committee members, MRCA secretariat and members would like to

say a very special THANK YOU to our charismatic and visionary immediate Past President Dato’ Nelson Kwok. Indeed ‘We Did It’! Let’s take a look back at our two year journey together ................. MN


I n a bid to strengthen media ties and introduce MRCA to the Malaysian mass media, MRCA council members had a series of meet and greets with

members of the media from various news agencies. The media were briefed on the vision and mission of MRCA as well as their past and future activities. As one of his first tasks as MRCA’s newly appointed President, Dato’ Liaw said that all the meetings were a success and that MRCA was pleased to forge a good and lasting relationship with the media that will benefit both parties simultaneously. MN

Strengthening Media Ties

COURTESY VISIT | Media Visit

COURTESY VISIT | Nanyang

COURTESY VISIT | Sin Chew

L ocated at 19, Jalan Semangat in Petaling Jaya, MRCA council members paid Sin Chew Media a courtesy call on 2 May 2014

at 3pm. MN

Getting to know Sin Chew Media

M RCA called on Nanyang on the 5 May 2014 at their premises at No 1, Jalan SS7/2, Petaling Jaya, Selangor at 3pm. MN

Introducing MRCA to Nanyang


COURTESY VISIT | China Press

COURTESY VISIT | The Star

O n another media visit on the 9 May 2014, MRCA spent time with The China Press at their office at 80 Jalan Riong, Off

Jalan Bangsar Kuala Lumpur at 3pm. MN

The China Press Visit

The Star welcomes MRCA

MRCA visited The Star on 15 May 2014 at 10am at Menara Star, 15 Jalan 16/11, Pusat

Dagangan Phileo Damansara II, Petaling Jaya. MN


O n Monday, 9 June 2014 as part of the series of media courtesy visits by MRCA, they visited Karangkraf at Lot 1, Jalan

Renggam 15/5, Off Persiaran Selangor, Seksyen 15, Shah Alam. MN

Saying Hello To Karangkraf

Karangkraf | COURTESY VISIT

Utusan Melayu | COURTESY VISIT

O n another media courtesy visit, MRCA council members led by new MRCA President Dato’ Liaw visited Utusan

Melayu (Malaysia) Bhd. 44 Jalan Utusan, Off Jalan Chan Sow Lin, Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, 20 May 2014 at 2.30pm. MN

Visiting Utusan Melayu


TALKING POINT

Inspiration for the ENTREPRENEUR'S soul

D ifferentiation from one brand to another is important in this competitive market. It is creativity without compromising on quality that will make your brand stand out from the rest. When everyone is doing the same thing, as entrepreneurs we must dare to be different. I believe that creativity and

innovation can turn our brand and our business into a legacy that is passed down from generation to generation.

Liew Bin, CEO

BAGMAN CORPORATION SDN BHD

I nnovation and creativity is definitely very important in today’s retail world. However, it is not pertaining to the look and feel of the retail shop but more towards the way to engage with customers in the shop as well as outside. Customers require more than loyalty programmes to stay engaged and relevant. Timely product information

disseminated through various channels is imperative.

Danny Leong, CEOE-PAY (M) SDN BHD

You must either modify your dreams or magnify your skills.

– Jim Rohn

Corporate executives and business owners need to realize that

there can be no compromise when it comes to ethics, and

there are no easy shortcuts to success.

Ethics need to be carefully sown into the fabric of their

companies.-Vivek Wadhwa

You are not your resume, you are

your work. - Seth Godin

Business opportunities are like buses, there’s always another

one coming. – Richard Branson

In today’s world of hyper-change, in your opinion, how important is innovation and

creativity in retail today?

RM391,066*Harga selepas diskaun Bumiputera*

1,910 - 2,137 KPS DIBUKA UNTUK JUALAN

3

1 445 2 036

A

297 551*

So easy with e-pay

For more information, kindly contact our Customer Support at +603-5623 6000 or visit us at www.e-pay.com.my

2089_A4 magazine OL.pdf 1 30/5/14 11:58 AM

mrca news - retailing : franchising : branding - vol.2 no.2

Documents