Do your homework and believe in yourself

industry? By always keeping well connected and in tune within the industry. I don’t have a pyramid structure of running the business. I keep it flat and I keep in touch with my staff from the ground up, and that’s how I know exactly what’s happening within the company and within the industry.

I keep a close watch around me and an even closer watch on those within the industry, regionally and internationally so I am always one step ahead of the game. I keep rebuilding and strategising new platforms so that the company would keep expanding and evolving.

If you could have an hour with any thought leader in the world, who would it be and why? Emperor Taizu of the Song Dynasty, the way that he managed to unify China by conquering territories into one and controlling the warlords to ensure peace – that is aspiring. He was also credited for advances in education, trade, arts and literature in his time and to be more open with the common people. He was a great visionary, business and political leader way before his time.

What was the most outlandish business proposal you have ever heard of? No business proposal is outlandish.

I believe in brainstorming, preparing and exploring, because every idea may lead to something big or may be groundbreaking.

What man-made innovation confounds you? Why? Smartphones – can’t live with them, can’t live without them.

Malaysia’s greatest brand? There are many iconic Malaysian brands that has enjoyed worldwide recognition, some of whom are being carried under our KTC stable of brands alongside international names, which proves that Malaysian brands can deliver quality products at competitive pricing.

Blue or red ocean strategy? Or neither? Why? Both. Blue – because there is a constant need for invention and innovation. Red – because healthy competition ensures everyone is offered its best.

A must-read for every business owner/manager is … Sun Tzu’s Art of War, Mencius’ Doctrines and Teachings.