Choose a mentor, and learn
level of humility.
What do you want to accomplish in the next five years? To be able to open and operate another theme park for Sunway Theme Parks.
Most admired business leader? Why? Jack Ma, founder and executive chairman of Alibaba Group. His business philosophy is practical and proven. He focuses on the skills and attitude of his employees, and hiring people with the know-how to carry out the company’s vision is an important pillar of any great company. His philosophy of “people being our greatest asset” is proven.
How do you stay abreast of issues affecting your industry? By being well connected and informed of any changes or issues affecting the theme park business and innovating. Keep coming up with new ways and ideas to move the business forward.
If you could have an hour with any thought leader in the world, who would it be and why? Jack Ma. To spend an hour with such an inspiring entrepreneur whose devoted work ethic has made him one of the world’s leading ecommerce web portals, would be a great privilege. As one of the world’s richest men, he has not let success cloud his vision for the future or his acknowledgement of where he came from. His keys to success are true and inspiring for everyone, from aspiring billionaires to owners of the smallest businesses.
What was your biggest failure and how did you learn from it? My biggest weakness and failure is not listening enough and making time for my team and colleagues.
What was the most outlandish business proposal you have ever heard of? I don’t believe that there are any outlandish ideas. Ideas can be explored and you may never know, it may be one of the best ideas ever.
What man-made innovation confounds you? Why? Computer technology. The latest virtual reality, augmented reality, robotics, etc. I think these will shape the future of theme parks.
The biggest challenge you’ve faced? My biggest challenge is creating a star talent from an ordinary performer and developing champions within the organisation.
Malaysia’s greatest brand. There are many iconic Malaysian brands out there but being a true Sunwayian, I believe that the Sunway brand is a great brand. Its purpose, vision and mission are synonymous throughout the group, with a solid foundation on three core values: integrity, humility and excellence.
Blue or red ocean strategy? Or neither? Why? Blue, as we need to have innovation and invention to evolve in how we manage our business. It is no longer about competing with one another but rather complementing one another.
A must-read for every business owner/manager? 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is a must and highly recommended to be read. A business and selfimprovement book written by Stephen R. Covey in 1988. It is thought-provoking, inspiring and empowers us as individuals. The principles are universal and can be applied to any aspect of one’s professional and personal life.
At Sunway, we embrace, practise and even discuss these habits in our daily interactions.