Kudat businessman conferred with Datukship award

KOTA KINABALU: Businessman Chee Chi Vun has been conferred the Panglima Gemilang Darjah Kinabalu (PGDK) state award, which carries the title ‘Datuk’, in conjunction with the 65th birthday of the Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun Juhar Mahiruddin recently.

Chee has been actively involved in and contributed to various charitable causes and schools in Sabah.

Born in Kudat on July 3, 1973, the 45-yearold Hokkien businessman had his primary and secondary education at SJK(C) St Peter and SM St Peter in the district. Chee and his spouse, Choong Boon Yean, are parents to six sons and two daughters.

Over the years, Chee and his brothers have worked hand in hand in building a diverse, reputable business empire.

He started off in his family’s clothing business at the young age of 18 in 1991. With the help of a friend, Chee subsequently ventured into plantation and hotel development.

At present, Chee is the managing director of Yuwang Plantation Sdn Bhd, the five-star Marriott Hotel, Novotel in Malacca, City Waterfront, Borneo Waterfront, Semenjak Development and Deevin Development Sdn Bhd.

He is also the founder of Multi Intelligence Playschool and Greatplus Autoparts.

In addition, he plays an active role in various Chinese schools and associations, including as an executive committee member of Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKCCCI), vice president of Sabah Chee Clan Association, treasurer of the Board of Governors of Likas Chung Hwa Kindergarten and Nursery and an honorary advisor to the Labuan Wasps Basketball Club.

He has gained much respect owing to his humble and amiable personality, coupled with generosity in contributing to charities and schools.

He has donated to SJK(C) Che Hwa Kolombong, Likas Chung Hwa Kindergarten, Penampang Chung Hwa Kindergarten, Kota Kinabalu High School, SJK(C) Chung Hwa Kota Kinabalu, SJK(C) St James, SJK(C) St Peter Kudat, SM St Michael, Borneo Evangelical Church (SIB) in Kota Belud, Kota Kinabalu Headmasters Council, Sabah Chee Clan Association and many other organizations.

Chee’s personal philosophy of life is to have gratitude, tolerance, honour one’s promise and always lend a helping hand to those in need.