SOBA 2020 - HZ Corporation
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021 SOBA 2020
2 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021
A year of transformation,
innovation and agility
In its 11th year, SOBA 2020 remains true to its core belief of championing local businesses
ducted through a combination of virtual and
> April 27: Additional Catalyst for SMEs to on-ground events - also a first for the awards
Overcome Revenue Deficit programme, taken as part of the safety meas-
ures in the time of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Running the course of 2020 starting
Rapid adoption of digital platforms August, these webinars actively invited lead-
A year of unprec- In late June last year, the awards pro- ing industry leaders and players to share
gramme was officially launched, digitally, for business insights on alleviating challenges
edented firsts:
the first time in SOBA’s prestigious history. stemming from the Covid-19 pandemic.
SOBA 2020 is the
It is also the first year SOBA introduced an Themed recovery, reinvention and restora-
first time that the online submission feature in addition to tion, the series intensified SOBA’s education-
awards programme manual submission, alongside introducing al element as compared to previous years.
has leveraged the two new categories to better reflect the SOBA LAB 2020 consisted of multiple ses-
digital platform for diversity of the country’s SMEs, namely ‘Best sions, with three locations being a hybrid of
its launch. in Customer Service’ and ‘Best in Retail’. virtual and physical events, including:
The ‘Best in Customer Service’ category
serves to recognise companies providing > Aug 13: Is Your Business Ready to Face
ALONG with the rest of the world, Malaysia Transforming with the times exemplary services to their clients, while the Another Potential Lockdown?
greeted the start of the new decade with a ‘Best in Retail’ category highlights innova-
year of unprecedented firsts put in motion During this time, the Star Outstanding tive, creative and top-class retailers across > Aug 25: Reinvent Your Business for the
by the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic in Business Awards (SOBA) also rapidly trans- the country. As with the other categories, Digital Future
2020, the impact of which still reverberates formed and pivoted to meet the demands of there will be two tiers of the award based on
in today’s business world. the new normal, which came shortly after company turnover (Up to RM25mil turnover > Sept 14: Road to Recovery in Restoring
As businesses grappled with the paradigm celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2019. and Above RM25mil turnover). Business Sustainability (Klang Valley)
shift that necessitated physical distancing While the SOBA awards programme has Right after the digital launch,Khazanah
and other standard operating procedures changed and expanded over the years, its Research Institute senior advisor and guest > Sept 23: Road to Recovery in Restoring
(SOP) set by the government, one aspect they core foundation remains the same: shining speaker Dr Jomo Kwame Sundaram shared Business Sustainability (Johor Bahru)
had to quickly embrace to minimise business the spotlight on deserving small and medi- his thoughts through a talk titled Some
disruption was technology to enable remote um enterprises (SMEs) that strive to carve Business Challenges of Our Times, which > Sept 30: Road to Recovery in Restoring
working, commonly known today as work- out a niche for themselves, in order to provided much-needed insights on the state Business Sustainability (Penang)
from-home. inspire and drive more Malaysian enterpris- of the business sector - including its challeng-
At the time, the nation’s business sector es towards business excellence and outstand- es and opportunities - at the time. > Oct 23: Road to Recovery for SMEs (Chinese
took a nosedive with a harsh and drastic hit ing achievements by stimulating positive This was then followed by SOBA’s annual session)
to their revenues in light of the ongoing competition. free capacity building series, called SOBA
Covid-19 pandemic, as well as the subse- At the same time, it seeks to help entrepre- Learn Aspire Build (LAB), which were con- > TURN TO PAGE 4
quent movement control order that followed neurs arm themselves with the necessary
to contain the outbreak of the virus. knowhow to take their businesses to the next
For businesses considered essential, they level, through organising educational events
had to comply with strict movement restric- that invite top business leaders and industry
tions and the new SOPs; for those designated experts to share their knowledge and learn-
non-essential, they were forced to close their ings that businesses can learn from.
physical storefronts. Either way, the over- This was the reason why SOBA kickstarted
head cost of doing business - rental, utilities, the SOBA SMEBiz Webinar series on April 13,
staff salaries and so on - had to be paid, not long after the pandemic started wreak-
despite little to no income. ing havoc on the profitability and sustaina-
Businesses, big or small, faced down what bility of local companies.
had to be the biggest challenge of their histo- Throughout the month of April 2020, the
ries yet. While a large number survived to knowledge sharing sessions aimed to assist
tell the tale, a significant amount called it a and upskill SMEs in the areas of sustainabili-
day and shuttered their doors permanently. ty and alleviating business adversities stem-
It was a time of rapid change for business- ming from Covid-19. There were altogether
es, which had to speed up their digital trans- four sessions under the initiative, including:
formation and adopt new technology to not
only sustain their businesses, but thrive in > April 13: Post Covid-19 Business Survival
the new normal. Facebook Live Forum
In those dark days, it was rapid adoption of
technology that acted as a ray of light at the > April 16: Digital Commerce for
end of the tunnel for smaller businesses. And Sustainability
thus, this accelerated the drive towards digi-
talisation and digitisation, shifting the needle > April 23: Resilient Leadership during RHB’s team in full force during SOBA LAB Penang to support SMEs beyond financial
on technology adoption in the country. Covid-19 services in helping close the loop in ecosystem solutions.
Digi brings connectivity and digital solutions to SMEs at its SOBA LAB booth in Penang, PKT Logistics Group’s Peninsula College helps expand SME capacity and enable business
while helping them address issues in digitalisation. owners to grow as entrepreneurs, at their booth at SOBA LAB PJ.
THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021 3
4 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021
Recognising the best local SMEs
its 50 years of growing with and shaping the
nation together with a golden jubilee launch
on March 11 to celebrate the milestone,
attended by a host of corporate clients and
partners that shared their congratulatory
words at the event.
It is the first to come of the year-long fes-
tivities. Coming right on the heels of the
golden jubilee launch is the SOBA 2020 Gala
Night, the culmination of a year’s worth of
> FROM PAGE 2 various activities and initiatives.
The awards programme continues on its
Following the submission deadline on Dec aim to continue recognising the undeniably
15, 2020, the two judging sessions on Jan 13 important role local businesses play towards
and Jan 20 started off the year on a positive nation-building, by making their marks both
note for SOBA, which were unprecedented locally and internationally.
for the awards programme as it was con- The SOBA 2020 Gala Night will be held
ducted entirely online, necessitating a new tonight, starting 6.30pm in honour of
way of doing things. Malaysia’s best local non-listed companies at
The move was well received by its panel of the Imperial Ballroom at One World Hotel in
judges, comprising of professionals and key Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
leaders from various business associations This year’s winners will be rewarded with
and organisations, as well as chambers of over RM1mil worth of advertising space in
commerce. Judges included representatives SMG’s platform, alongside taking home the A decade championing SMEs: SOBA 2019’s biggest winners hold aloft their respective
from Federation of Malaysian coveted SOBA trophy. SOBA trophies in celebration during the glitter-filled awards night, the same year the awards
Manufacturers, Malaysian Advertisers For the Top-Of-The-Class Awards, Platinum programme celebrated its 10th anniversary.
Association, Persatuan Usahawan Maju winners will receive RM50,000 worth of ad
Malaysia (PUMM), Branding Association of space in print and online; Gold winners will
Malaysia, Malaysia Retail Chain Association receive RM30,000 worth of ad space in print
(MRCA), Asean Retail-Chains & Franchise and online, while Silver winners will receive
Federation, Malaysian Digital Association, RM20,000 worth of ad space in print.
The National Tech Association of Malaysia Outstanding Achievement Awards Grand
(Pikom), SME Association of Malaysia winners will be rewarded with RM50,000
(SMEAM), Associated Chinese Chambers of worth of ad space in print and online.
Commerce and Industry of Malaysia, Media SOBA 2020 is organised by Star Media
Specialists Association, Bursa Malaysia Bhd, Group with Digi, PKT Logistics Group Sdn
Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Bhd and RHB Bank Bhd as main sponsors,
Commerce & Industry (MAICCI) and Dewan Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd
Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia Kuala Lumpur. as co-sponsor and the Malaysia External
Among the reasons cited by judges includ- Trade Development Corporation as official
ed utilising digital documents and online trade promotion partner. It is endorsed by
platforms as enablers for a faster and more the Ministry of International Trade and
efficient judging process, with the boost to Industry, supported by Bursa Malaysia and
objectivity as an added boon. audited by BDO with dimsum, 988 and Suria
as official media partners.
For more information on SOBA 2020, call (from left) SMEAM national council member Datuk Grace Chia, Digi SME business division
A year to remember The Star Events Business Unit at +603 7967 head Steven Soon, RHB Bank SME banking head Yip How Nang and PKT Logistics Group
Moreover, this year is a very significant 1388 ext 1871 (Lily) / 1039 (Poh Ern) or visit chief marketing officer Kuan Eu Jin share valuable insights to help SMEs restore business
and special one for The Star, as it kicked off www.soba.com.my. sustainability.
(from left) Knowledge Group of Companies managing director (MD) Selva Nagappan, Understanding the plight of SMEs, SOBA gathered industry experts including (from left)
JurisTech CEO See Wai Hun, PKT Logistics Group chief executive and MD Datuk Michael MAICCI secretary-general Datuk Dr A.T. Kumarajah, MRCA deputy secretary-general Datuk
Tio and PUMM secretary-general Arlene Tan discuss the considerations that SMEs face in Bruce Lim, SMEAM president Datuk Michael Kang and MRCA president Datuk Seri Garry
preparing their businesses through another potential lockdown. Chua to give their advice on how SMEs can tackle the negative impact of the pandemic.
CGC’s team, pictured at their booth at Menara Star in PJ during the third SOBA LAB, is ready Matrade’s team at its booth during the third SOBA LAB at Menara Star in PJ, encouraging
to help power Malaysian SMEs to achieve their full potential. SMEs to venture into export as an avenue for growth.
THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021 SOBA 2020 5
RHB Reflex
Premium Plus
helps SMEs keep
track of all the
ins and outs of
the business
anywhere,
anytime.
Administrative HR processes are among the biggest headaches for SMEs.
Creating a thriving business
DIGITAL transformation goes Integrating with HR solutions
beyond helping small and medium like Kakitangan.com and Talenox,
enterprises (SMEs) survive in the RHB Reflex Premium Plus helps
post-pandemic world as an essen- SMEs improve efficiency in manag-
tial business component, as it also ing employee leaves, payroll and
integrates a future-forward path statutory payments without hassle.
for sustainability and growth in the With a centralised dashboard to
long term. manage employee leave days, pay-
Be they start-ups or enterprises, roll and statutory payments in one
Malaysian businesses have faced place anywhere and anytime, SMEs
many challenges such as managing can save valuable time spent on
accounting entries, human resourc- calculating every employee’s salary
es and sales management. and statutory payment via payroll
In the next few years, digital dis- automation.
ruption is likely to accelerate, espe- Moreover, it enables easy salary
cially with Covid-19 being a cata- disbursement by creating the com-
lyst that has expedited the adop- pany’s bank file through the HR
tion of technology among smaller solutions that push it to RHB Reflex
businesses. to disburse salary in a few clicks
Accordingly, various initiatives thereafter.
have been introduced in Budget
2021 – such as the SME Digitalisa- Expanding business
tion Grant and the SME Technology
Transformation Fund – recognising growth potential
the importance of encouraging It goes without saying that the
SMEs to embrace automation and pandemic has changed the land-
digitalisation in their operations, scape of the majority of industries,
in order to be resilient amid the accelerating the needs of digital
economic uncertainties affecting transformation for many business-
Malaysia. es at the same time.
Heeding the Malaysian govern- However, many SMEs lack the
ment’s call, RHB Business Banking, digital mindset and do not under-
as an SME business partner in stand what is going on with digital
cooperation with various product transformation. For example, the
partners, has also rolled out vari- food and beverage (F&B) industry
ous digital transformation solu- is strongly affected by the pandem-
tions via the Reflex Premium Plus ic, with many businesses struggling
Package to assist SMEs with their to increase – or even sustain – their
digital transformation journey. SMEs embarking on their digital transformation journey can leverage the strengths and capabilities of partners sales through the various move-
While small businesses realise such as RHB. ment control order periods.
the need for digital transformation, This is why RHB Business
a significant number remain Account and RHB Reflex Business with accounting solution partners alerts and approval requests from Banking has worked with ePOS
unprepared with weak knowledge Internet Banking, RHB Reflex like SQL Accounting and Financio the RHB Reflex Mobile App, hence partners such as StoreHub to assist
in adapting to new technologies or Premium Plus helps SMEs juggle all to provide SMEs with a holistic saving time and reducing potential them to transform their business to
setting up their digital business aspects of their businesses easily view of business financial perfor- error. provide online food delivery to the
correctly, where they lack under- with an all-in-one online banking mance, making it easier for them In turn, this gives SMEs more customers.
standing on how proper technolo- ecosystem that integrates all the to keep track of all the ins and outs time and resources to focus on Under this initiative, many F&B
gy application can improve the automated solutions a business of the business anywhere, anytime. growing their businesses and businesses have expanded to a
productivity and operation effi- needs. Understanding the struggles that expanding their market segments. new customer segment via a new
ciency of the business. RHB Reflex Premium Plus is these companies go through, RHB This initiative also helps smaller digital sales channel and have gar-
More than ever, companies that built on several key pillars, includ- has worked with vendor partners SMEs to start doing business more nered a larger base of customers.
are slow to digitise their business ing accounting solution with to reduce operational burdens by easily, as the function of auto rec- RHB Reflex Premium Plus is a
operations or offerings are likely to Financio Accounting and SQL providing auto reconciliation onciliation can free up their time to total solution package that pro-
be losing out in terms of competi- Accounting as vendors, as well as between the banking system and strategise on how to expand their vides integration between online
tive advantage and opportunities human resource solution with the accounting solution. customer base. banking, as well as accounting and
in their customer segments as well. Kakitangan.com and Talenox as Involving two-way bank feeds human resource solutions from
With a structured digital solution vendors. between the RHB Business Current Solving HR process only RM50 per month. It allows
framework, RHB Business Banking Account and Accounting Solution businesses to manage their cash
aims to guide SMEs in accelerating Cutting down on for auto reconciliation, RHB Reflex conundrums flow and make payments in just a
their journey of digital transforma- Premium Plus cuts down on the As for the administrative process few simple clicks so that they can
tion to grow together, especially in manual headaches manual process of cross-checking of human resources (HR), most spend more time doing what
this tough environment. Accounting solutions are the each accounting entry with the businesses will admit that it can be they’re passionate about – building
The bank seeks to help SMEs core component of every SME busi- corresponding bank transaction. a confusing and arduous task for their business.
understand the overall benefits of ness, but most companies waste a Among the other unique selling companies of all sizes, especially
using technology and kick-start lot of resources on handling manu- points are enabling SMEs to view when accompanied with workforce Apply for RHB
their digital journey. al reconciliation of their account- their real-time bank balance challenges. Reflex
ing entries and bank account trans- through mobile or desktop, as well That’s why having a self-serve Premium Plus
What is RHB Reflex actions on a monthly basis. as a centralised account payment system with an end-to-end solution now. Scan
Under the RHB Reflex Premium that allows customers to initiate that keeps tabs on all people-related the QR code
Premium Plus? Plus Package, RHB Reflex Business supplier payment in accounting processes is key in keeping back- for more
With RHB Business Current Internet Banking has integrated solutions, which in turn triggers end operations running smoothly. information.
6 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021
Ready to set sail
THE much-anticipated wait for The Ship
Campus is finally over, as visitors are now
welcome aboard to discover what this educa-
tion and lifestyle hub has to offer.
Located within the 70-acre commercial
development One Auto Hub at Batu Kawan
in Penang, it is a project started by PKT
Logistics Group Sdn Bhd in 2017.
Modelled after a sea-faring cruise ship
ready to sail forward into a future of excel-
lence, it is able to accommodate over 4,000
people across nine decks.
Facilities onboard including a gymnasium
overlooking the Straits of Malacca called
Surfers’ Paradise; the 470-seating capacity
Opera Theatre that can be used to host semi-
nars, business conferences and also concerts;
and also the Grand Promenade, which fea-
tures a mix of retail and food and beverage
outlets.
Nation-building through education
Apart from being a public attraction, The
Ship Campus adds value to knowledge and
talent development as the headquarters of
PKT Logistics Group’s education arm
Peninsula College, an industry-driven ter-
tiary education provider that aims to pro-
duce employment-ready graduates.
It will also see the collaboration between
Peninsula College and University of
Plymouth, United Kingdom as its education
partner to offer a range of tertiary educa-
tional courses – be it foundation, diploma, or
degree – in logistics and supply chain man-
agement, maritime management, computer
science, hospitality, accountancy and busi-
ness studies.
The Ship Campus exemplifies the group’s
commitment towards creating graduates
prepared for the working world, further lay-
ing the foundation for the higher education
institution’s campuses across Malaysia that
uniquely feature the campus-in-industry
model.
This model is the brainchild of PKT
Logistics Group chief executive and manag- The Ship Campus is located inside the One Auto Hub at Batu Kawan in Penang.
ing director Datuk Dr Michael Tio, champi-
oning the necessity to bridge the gap future generations to stay abreast with the day of experiential learning at The Ship medium businesses can leverage co-working
between industry and academia by situating fourth industrial revolution,” he added. Campus. spaces as not only a space to work, but also
colleges within an industrial park. By implementing the campus-in-industry The residence has a capacity of 1,600 foster important networks and business ties
With the concept of enabling students to model, it can also help inculcate an agile students in either single or twin sharing that can eventually lead to collaborative ven-
closely collaborate with industry partners mindset open to continuous learning for stu- rooms with common facilities. Those who tures for growth.
through part-time employment while study- dents - more essential than ever today to choose to call this place home can opt for This can in turn spark new and innovative
ing, Peninsula College seeks to impart theo- navigate any challenges that come along - as flexible rental plans to suit their length of ideas and uncover potential niche opportuni-
retical knowledge to act as the students’ Tio is also a firm advocate for lifelong learn- stay. ties in the market, which entrepreneurs can
foundation of industry understanding, which ing to continually improve oneself. capitalise on to fast-track their speed-to-mar-
they can then immediately apply in practice As case in point, The Ship Campus is locat- ket, by tapping into the ready pool of part-
by working part-time. ed in close proximity within the One Auto
Fostering entrepreneurship time talent from Peninsula College.
As he explained, “The Ship Campus is Hub to other structural icons synonymous Aside from educational excellence, The Beyond being a physical co-working space,
among the few education campuses located with PKT Logistics Group, such as The 12 Ship Campus aims to nurture the growth of those who register with EGH will also be
in an industrial park. Waves, a purpose-built warehouse spanning Malaysian entrepreneurs through a start-up able to enjoy the facilities at The Ship
“This was a deliberate decision as we felt across 650,000 sq ft that is highly visible incubator called the Entrepreneur Growth Campus.
the need for academia to be close to industry, along the highway leading to the Sultan Hub (EGH). “We welcome industry players and the
in order to produce graduates equipped with Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge (Penang Realising the crucial need for affordable business community of Batu Kawan to join
the skills and capabilities required in today’s Second Bridge). working spaces and ready access to talent our EGH and be part of
demanding job market.” To further create a conducive ecosystem for smaller businesses, alongside entrepre- a growing community
“Graduates today must be industry-driven for students, the group has also constructed neurial workshops and programmes to of like- minded entre-
and ready, equipped with the necessary the Peninsula Student Residences, which lies upgrade their capacity, EGH seeks to facili- preneurs,” Tio said.
skills to manoeuvre the corporate world. adjacent to The Ship Campus. tate their growth by lowering the barriers of
“It is, therefore, timely for the rise of inter- Inspired by the great dormitories and gar- entry to doing business in the earlier years Scan the QR code to
national and world-class institutions of learn- dens found in the UK, it is a space for stu- of their journey in entrepreneurship. book your experience
ing here in Penang, as we aim to develop the dents to unwind and rejuvenate after a long Through the EGH, start-ups and small and at The Ship Campus.
The Opera Theatre has a seating capacity of 470 people. Overlooking the Straits of Malacca, the Surfer’s Paradise Gym is open to the public.
THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021 SOBA 2020 7
Preparing
SMEs for
the future
MORE than ever, Malaysia’s small base with a targeted SMS broadcast.
and medium enterprises (SMEs) Second is the Go Digital Prod-
have to look to the future of busi- uctivity Bundle, which caters to
ness, where technology takes cen- businesses that emphasise mobility
tre stage, especially with the Covid- and being on the go more often to
19 pandemic expediting digital help businesses improve work effi-
adoption among businesses for ciency and productivity.
survival. Where it stands out is through its
But in order to digitalise and be Omni offering, which provides a
more future-ready, SMEs need to business landline on smartphones,
leverage the strengths of a partner meaning that employees can work
that can provide an end-to-end eco- from anywhere, anytime to help
system of digital solutions, includ- customers. This helps boost cus-
ing connectivity. tomer satisfaction and loyalty
To this end, Digi Business is com- while also enabling salespeople to
mitted to being the trusted digital never miss an opportunity to lock
partner to SMEs, bringing a com- in a sale.
prehensive range of essential digi- It also comes with the all-in-one
tal solutions, always-on connectivi- digital human resource (HR) man-
ty solutions and digital expertise agement app called altHR, which
to support SMEs’ digitalisation makes it suitable for businesses to
journey. digitalise and simplify fundamental
Digi Business offers different HR processes. This is especially
bundles to suit diverse business useful and relevant now as remote
needs, ranging from basic packages working becomes the new norm.
to more extensive digital solutions, The Go Digital Growth Bundle
as well as the flexibility to choose offers a wide range of solutions,
postpaid, fibre and mobile broad- combining the Go Digital Essential
band plans that come with free Bundle and the Go Digital Product-
marketing or productivity digital ivity Bundle into one end-to-end
solutions to help SMEs boost their offering.
business quickly. The Growth Bundle offers Omni,
The solutions offered are altHR, Avana Facebook Commerce
affordable and user-friendly, bust- and D’SMS for a complete solution
ing the myth that digitalisation is a to the common challenges faced by
costly and complex exercise. smaller businesses.
This makes it easier for business
owners to digitalise their business- Value-packed
es, from setting up their e-com-
merce business to streamlining connectivity offerings
operations, resulting in increased Recognised as Malaysia’s fastest
productivity and efficiency. mobile network in the latest Ookla
The road to digital transforma- Speedtest Awards, Digi Business has
tion is also being incentivised by a range of value-packed postpaid,
the Malaysian government through fibre and mobile broadband plans,
the National Economic Revival offering business owners free usage
Plan’s (Penjana) SME Digitalisation of selected digital solutions.
Grant, which subsidises costs of up Those thinking of switching to
to RM6,000 for business owners a better mobile and Internet net-
looking to accelerate their digitali- work provider can choose three to
sation plan with Digi Business’ five mobile and data plans to enjoy
bundles. 30% off the bill, plus free digital
Digi Business serves as a one- marketing or productivity solu-
stop processing centre by carrying tions.
out the grant application process With all plans offering unlimited
from start to end so that customers calls, businesses can choose from
can focus on business operations. Go Digi 48 (supplementary line), Go
Digi 78, Go Digi 98, Go Digi 128 and
Affordable, user-friendly Go Digi 168.
Go Digi 48 offers 300 SMS and
digital solutions 30GB Internet. Go Digi 78 and Go
Business owners who are keen Digi 98 both offer or 1,500 SMS, but
to digitalise their business can the former comes with 40GB free
choose from three bundles Internet and a free Vivo Y11D
and enjoy savings of up to 70%, smartphone worth RM499, while
depending on their business needs. the latter comes with 60GB Internet
The first two bundles come with and a free Vivo Y20S smartphone
five Digi Business postpaid lines, worth RM799.
with each line getting 60GB Inter- Go Digi 128 and Go Digi 168 are
net and unlimited calls for as low perfect for businesses that have
as RM349 per month, while the regular dealings with Singapore, as
third bundle offers 10 Digi business both offer 500 minutes of interna-
postpaid lines with each line tional calls to Singapore and 3,000
getting 60GB Internet and unlimit- SMS.
ed calls for RM580 per month. Where they differ is that the for-
All three bundles come with mer offers 80GB Internet and a
access to Microsoft 365 Business free Samsung Galaxy A51 worth
Basic offering innovative office RM1,299, while the latter offers
apps and cloud services. unlimited Internet and a free Oppo
The first, the Go Digital Essential Reno 5 worth RM1,899.
Bundle, is suitable for businesses With cybersecurity necessary
looking to expand via e-commerce due to a rise in cybercrime, SMEs
to tap into a wider range of custom- can protect their businesses with
ers through a new revenue channel. Cisco Umbrella for just an addition-
Bundled with Avana Facebook al RM3 per line.
Commerce, it seeks to help busi-
nesses grow their own e-commerce ■ For more information, visit
brand and offers D’SMS, which digi.my/digibusinessXsoba or
helps re-market to their customer call 016-299 8888.
8 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021 eTRADE 2.0 for Brighter days ahead export growth THE Covid-19 pandemic has had a CONGRATULATIONS to all winners of The far-reaching impact. Lockdowns world- Star Outstanding Business Awards 2020 wide have caused a massive disruption to (SOBA). This recognition serves as an inspira- global trade and economic growth. tion to many small and medium enterprises This is the best time for companies to (SMEs) during this unprecedented health digitalise their businesses as the pandemic and economic crisis. has led to a surge in ecommerce and digi- These winning SMEs have reflected, talisation initiatives. rebooted and adjusted to the new normal. In 2019, retail e-commerce sales Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia worldwide amounted to US$3.53 trillion Berhad (CGC) is honoured to be part of (RM14.5 trillion) and are projected to grow SOBA, in its sixth year as a sponsor of this to US$6.54 trillion (RM26.9 trillion) by 2023. award to recognise Malaysian SMEs’ unfal- With the growing global ecommerce tering resilience in the face of the Covid-19 market and the current travel curbs, there pandemic. CGC ensured its support in every phase of is no better time for SMEs to capitalise on Covid-19 greatly affected SMEs’ survival in Malaysia’s 6Rs Strategy. ecommerce platforms. the ecosystem. On the home front, CGC Under the 11th Malaysia Plan, the quickly re-aligned its strategies to support CGC also provided a six-month moratori- Malaysia External Trade Development SMEs by expediting its operational readiness. um to SMEs, a temporary relief measure Corporation implemented the eTRADE It has efficiently coordinated its initiatives to allowing its customers to defer financing or Programme from 2017-2020 to offer export help SMEs weather the storm with all stake- loan repayments. This way, SMEs were able facilitation to cover part of the onboarding holders in the Malaysian SME ecosystem. to Restart their businesses as they could cost for companies to join cross-border CGC ensured its support in every phase address their short-term cash-flow require- ecommerce platforms. of Malaysia’s 6Rs Strategy comprising six ments. In addition, CGC continued to hold A total of 3,358 SMEs benefited in terms stages; Resolve, Resilience, Restart, regular engagements with SMEs in need of increased global business opportunities Recovery, Revitalise and Reform. through Targeted Repayment Assistance. and enhancing technical know-how. In the first half of 2020, CGC geared up In the second half of 2020, CGC's efforts Under the 12th Malaysia Plan, the gov- efforts to Resolve, helping SMEs to survive pivoted toward Recovery and rehabilitation ernment has approved the enhancement by softening the impact of the pandemic. of businesses. It supported the Short-Term of the eTRADE programme. Under eTRADE Grow your export with eTRADE 2.0. CGC supported the distribution of the Special Economic Recovery Plan (Penjana) which 2.0, SMEs will be offered two types of Relief Facility (SRF) Scheme by Bank Negara was unveiled to stabilise and revitalise the financial aid – the Onboarding Scheme For the DMT Scheme, qualified SMEs can Malaysia to affected SMEs so that they could domestic economic and business conditions. worth RM5,000 and the Digital Marketing receive up to RM20,000 per company as sustain their operations. Covid-19 has shifted the paradigm for and Training Scheme (DMT) Scheme worth reimbursement for their expenses in con- Its BizJamin and BizJamin-i SRF schemes SMEs. Businesses need to re-align in order to RM20,000. ducting digital marketing activities to pro- guaranteed financial institutions or develop- move forward. Sustainability is key and Through the Onboarding Scheme, mote products abroad and for ecommerce ment financial institutions’ financing and adjustment is a must to stay relevant in the qualified Malaysian SMEs can utilise up to training programmes they choose to attend. lending to SMEs affected by the pandemic. constantly changing business landscape. RM5,000 per company as reimbursement for The schemes provided a breather to SMEs expenses incurred on onboarding cross- ■ SMEs can apply for the eTRADE Prog- battling short-term cash flow challenges, ■ For more details, look out for the border ecommerce platforms of their choice. ramme 2.0 at www.matrade.gov.my/en/etrade enabling them to be Resilient and stay afloat. advertisement in this StarSpecial.
THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021 SOBA 2020 9
Cautious optimism for 2021
WITH the nationwide vaccination
campaign in progress, things might
start looking up for businesses for
the rest of the year.
While Malaysia’s gross domestic
product (GDP) will likely contract
in the first quarter owing to the The government has approved
second movement control order nearly 7,000 applications with a
(MCO 2.0), the overall impact will total loan value approximating
be less severe compared to the first RM1.32bil, prioritising SMEs that
MCO last year. have not previously received bank
For comparison, the government loans.
estimates daily economic losses As for Penjana Micro Credit
during MCO 1.0 to be around Financing, a total of RM391.9mil
RM2.4bil but for MCO 2.0, it is has been channelled to 11,708
gauged to be around RM70mil a micro-SMEs, while Perbadanan
day. Usahawan Nasional’s RM200mil
At the same time, the nation’s Bumiputera Relief Financing has
economy is expected to see sequen- benefited 641 SMEs with total fund-
tial growth pick up in the second ing of RM182.8mil as at Feb 26.
half of the year to chart positive Meanwhile, the Prihatin Rakyat
growth – in line with the recovery Economic Stimulus Package
of the global economy boosting (Prihatin) and Penjana’s Wage
consumption – with economists Subsidy Programme 1.0 benefited
cautiously optimistic that 2021’s a total of 322,177 employers and
real GDP growth could range from 2.64 million employees as of its
4.9% to 6.7%. closing date on Sept 30 last year.
The country is maintaining its The Wage Subsidy Programme
GDP growth target of between 2.0 further channelled a sum of
6.5% and 7.5% for 2021 despite the RM808.31mil to 66,591 employers
emergency declaration and MCO and 554,876 employees, bringing
2.0. approved wage subsidy applica-
However, Finance Minister tions to around RM12.77bil as of
Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Feb 26.
Abdul Aziz has acknowledged that Thanks to the fact that MCO 2.0
the growth might be at the lower Cash flow, as always, remains a core worry for smaller businesses, with purses still straining from the need to was not a full lockdown, SMEs
end of the spectrum. stretch the ringgit further to make ends meet. were still able to generate enough
World Bank Group macroeco- income to scrape by as they were
nomics, trade and investment glob- expects Malaysia’s GDP growth to MCO 1.0 and MCO 2.0 period. Indeed, a survey by the Associat- better prepared this time around
al practice lead economist Richard hover at 5.2% and 5.9%, with Aside from the continued trend ed Chinese Chambers of Commerce – be it familiarity with the new
Record said the bulk of global vac- Maybank Investment Bank of cautious consumer spending, and Industry of Malaysia revealed standard operating procedures and
cine deployment will be completed Research maintaining its 5.1% pro- most SMEs have barely had time to that SMEs cannot survive for more their implementation, or the adop-
this year in the majority of econo- jection and Fitch Solutions revising catch their breaths, with the slight than three months with zero cash tion of technological tools to enable
mies, leading to strong recovery its forecast from 10.0% to 4.9%. recovery from easing restrictions flow. work from home and to establish
and demand, as well as boosting in July to August last year falling Many SMEs survived by the skin or expand digital sales revenue
trade and commodity prices. yet again towards the end of 2020, of their teeth last year, with their channels – to minimise disruptions
Although he projected global
Ups and downs much less having enough time to burden offset by the various stimu- to business operations.
growth of 4.0% and between 5.6% Despite the positive growth out- rebuild their business to pre-Cov- lus packages and government aid That said, even with hope on the
and 6.7% for Malaysia, he noted look, that does not mean the year id-19 levels. such as the wage subsidy prog- horizon, there is no denying that
that there are risks to growth that will be smooth sailing for business- Cash flow, as always, remains a ramme and the loan moratorium. there are still more obstacles to
are linked to the Covid-19 pandem- es, especially for the nation’s small core worry for smaller businesses, Among the initiatives that have come for SMEs, which will have
ic, such as any unexpected delays and medium enterprises (SMEs). with purses still straining from the alleviated the pinch is the RM2bil to persevere and innovate to not
in vaccine rollout. These businesses continue to grap- need to stretch the ringgit further National Economic Recovery Plan only survive, but prosper through
In addition, AmBank Research ple with the aftershocks from the to make ends meet. (Penjana) SME Financing scheme. sustained growth.
High-quality pulp products
HZ GREEN Pulp Sdn Bhd (HZ), coupled with its mission to provide franchises in the world are using
which is strategically located in quality, sustainable and cost-effec- HZ products currently.
Perak, is one of the leading manu- tive solutions. When it comes to research and
facturers of moulded pulp prod- The company’s products range development, HZ has collaborated
ucts. Established in 2017, it pio- includes cup carriers, food trays, with an established university in
neered a new technology to manu- fruit punnets and egg cartons. conducting research and develop-
facture high-quality moulded pulp HZ products have been tested as ment. It began collaborating with
products from recycled paper. per United States Food and Drugs the Asian Institute of Medicine HZ products are proven to be free from allergens, carcinogens and
It offers customers cost-effective Administration and European Food Science and Technology) this year restricted substances.
and environmentally friendly solu- contact requirements. to develop innovative and environ-
tions and its production adheres to The products are also proven to mentally safe products. creating awareness of electronic spread of the virus. This device
Good Manufacturing Practices and be free from allergens, carcinogens As a responsible company, HZ waste and planting trees are uses chemicals approved by
Hazard Analysis Critical Control and restricted substances. has a corporate social responsibili- among the projects HZ successfully National Environmental Agency
Points, so customers can be HZ currently supplies its prod- ty policy covering a fair share of organised with both employees of Singapore.
assured of the quality of the prod- ucts to five continents. Export priority to ethics, human rights, and the community. HZ was awarded the APAC Best
ucts they are buying. markets contribute up to 75% of customers, community and the The production facility at HZ Malaysia Moulded Pulp Manufac-
Taking into consideration the its total sales. environment. It has participated in complies with cleanroom Class C turer 2020 by UK Insider and Best
alarming environmental issues HZ has successfully shipped to various charity events which bene- requirements. HZ is also equipped Safety Practice by the Perak Dep-
caused by plastic waste, pollution the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, fited the community. with an in-house laboratory to artment of Safety and Health.
and littering, HZ has taken the initi- China, Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam, In line with the company’s perform testing and validation of
ative to develop environmentally Hong Kong, Romania, Netherlands, mission, HZ organises various products. ■ For more details, email info@
safe products that are biodegrada- Ireland, Switzerland, Chile and the campaigns annually to enhance When the Covid-19 pandemic hzgreenpulp.com or log on to
ble, compostable and recyclable. Middle East. environmental efforts and create began, HZ was among the first http://www.hzcorporation.com/ or
This is in line with its vision “To In the US, HZ is currently more awareness of environmental companies to install an intelligent Facebook (https://www.facebook.
green the earth with high-quality exporting to 21 states. Besides issues. face scan, body temperature and com/hzcorporation/) or Instagram
moulded paper pulp products” that, the top 10 food and beverage Reducing carbon footprint, body mist to prevent further @hzgreenpulpmalaysia
HZ has taken the initiative to produce and develop environmentally safe products that are biodegradable, compostable and recyclable.
10 SOBA 2020 THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021 Start local, go global ESTABLISHED in 2016, Malaysian homegrown rising star Wellous is a prominent leading multi-func- tional food and food technology company. Wellous focuses on discovering potent, naturally sourced ingredi- ents to extract the most beneficial compounds for optimum health effects on the human body. The company positions itself as a medium to assist consumers to Wellous focuses on discovering potent, naturally sourced ingredients to lead a healthier and more beautiful extract the most beneficial compounds. life from the inside out. Wellous vigorously sources for Wellous chief executive officer advice and guidance for each the best raw materials globally to Racheal Tan said, “Our ambition is ingredient, from the scientific ensure the highest quality of its to be No.1 in the health supple- aspect to how to optimise the products. The three vital key ele- ment industry and we are more benefits of every product. ments of quality, efficacy and con- than ready to take on the world.” They also assist Wellous in sistency are the propellants behind Five years after its inception, delivering factual health knowl- the company’s development in Wellous has launched eight series edge to educate the public as going beyond the limits. of star products that bring ultimate Wellous always ensures that only By utilising innovative and function to the human body such accurate educational information advanced technology, as well as as Tigrox Tiger Milk King which reaches consumers. world-class patented ingredients, targets enhancing lung functions; These close collaborations help Wellous places a strong emphasis Bio-Grape Seeds which help in the to enhance the power of innova- ‘Our ambition is to be No.1 in the health supplement industry and we are on “uniqueness in creation and neutralisation of free-radicals; tion and creativity to synergise more than ready to take on the world,’ says Tan. development”. Frusso and Spi2ro which can more beneficial and impactful To ensure the highest quality improve detoxification of accumu- products to the public. pandemic, where personal an increase from the current eight control of production, Wellous lated toxins, Tigrox Imuglo Wellous consistently emphasises protective equipment and series available now to a total of 12 always adheres to its philosophy of which focuses on immunity the importance of giving back. three-ply surgical masks were by the end of 2021, offering a more only applying the most stringent enhancement; and Liveon which Its charitable arm, “Wellous, donated to frontliners. comprehensive series of products specifications to provide assurance helps with anti-ageing and the We Care”, is a corporate social “This CSR effort is aligned to that protect consumers from head and ultimate satisfaction for all restoration of energy and vitality. responsibility (CSR) initiative for Wellous’s direction of being a to toe, internally and externally. consumers. In 2018, a team of doctors, outreach to help communities in corporate company to do its fair The company is also looking “Making life convenient and pharmacists, professors and need. part of contributing to society,” said into deeper market penetration easy” is the belief Wellous upholds scientific researchers gathered to Various efforts have been Tan. to more countries in line with its – all its product ranges come in form the Wellous Medical and rendered to individuals and Wellous is currently working on plan to conquer the online global an easy form for consumption, yet Research Board of Advisors. organisations nationwide over the research and development for market as a proudly Malaysian yield highly effective results. These experts offer professional years, especially with the recent more product series. It is targeting homegrown business. The journey of an aesthetician DATUK Dr Inder Kaur eats, sleeps and breathes wellness. For the last 25 years, her passion has been to help people live a full life with strong mental and physical health. This petite, winsome woman from Sungai Petani, Kedah, with Punjabi and Chinese heritage has set up healthcare centres that, among others, specialise in aesthet- ic and hair restoration with the motto “Look Good, Feel Good”. “When people look good, their outlook on life changes,” she said in a recent interview. “They become more confident and pragmatic, so they contribute to positive vibes among their fami- ly and friends.” In particular, hair restoration has a lifelong effect on an individu- al that resonates well with society. So far, Dr Inder has performed one million grafts worth of hair restoration procedures on over Dr Inder is board-certified in aesthetic medicine by the American 5,000 satisfied clients worldwide. Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. For her work, she has earned Last year, Dr Inder won the Global Health, Asia Pacific Awards 2020, the awards and accolades that recog- Malaysian doctor who is a is more than a medical doctor. Global Excellence Award 2020 and Anugerah Ikon Usahawan 2020. nise her contribution to society. Diplomate of The American Board She is also a counsellor who Last year alone, she won the of Hair Restoration Surgery. provides a sympathetic ear to their underscore service to society. crown that you never take off.” Global Health, Asia Pacific Awards She is also board-certified in aes- non-aesthetic issues, a skill that has Dr Inder is planning to extend Another pet project of hers is 2020, the Global Excellence Award thetic medicine by the American been picked up by her dedicated her global reach so that others too research and development. To this 2020 and Anugerah Ikon Usaha- Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. staff. can benefit from embracing a end, Dr Inder hopes to collaborate wan 2020. She lives by the maxim: Wellness To her, each client is different. healthy lifestyle. with a local university in the field As the chief executive officer, is about inner and external beauty. Special care is paid to their needs Discussions are underway to set of medicine and pharmacy to director and founder of Inder Beauty starts from within. and all treatments are customised. up hair restoration centres in conduct research and development Aesthetic Sdn Bhd, Dr Inder is also Dr Inder has had to deal with Her enthusiasm for what she Jakarta and Manila. in instruments and products. the president of the Follicular Unit her share of challenges in life, but does is infectious – it spreads “It’s all about passion. When I Her organisation is currently Extraction Malaysia Society. she takes them in her stride with a quickly to others who come away am working, I don’t think I am exploring simulation, animation, She has a letter of privileging positive outlook and the ability to refreshed and energised. working. I am oblivious of the predictive technologies, built-in and credentialing from the turn risks into opportunities. She attributes her drive and outside world,” she says on what notification and cloud image Ministry of Health to practise aes- Some industry players consider compassion to her family motivates her to work hard. libraries to create a client-centric thetic medicine and is also an her an aesthetic guru who accentu- upbringing. “I also wish to create more edu- application. active member of the International ates her work with creativity and Her late father, a hospital assis- cational platforms to engage more Society of Hair Restoration Surgery. innovation. tant, had instilled in her and her people around the world.” ■ For more information, visit Dr Inder is the only female To her regular clientele, Dr Inder siblings strong positive values that Her mantra is: “Hair is your https://www.klinikdrinder.com/
THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021 11
12 THE STAR, WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021
You can also read
