Six visionaries honoured at Sarawak EOYS 2025

KUCHING (Dec 1): The Sarawak Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (EOYS) 2025 marked a significant milestone, celebrating its 20th anniversary by recognising six of the state’s most impactful business figures.

The prestigious event was the highlight of the Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (SCCI) 74th Gala Dinner, held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching on November 22 this year.

The core mission of the EOYS is to formally recognise the prime movers that drive Sarawak’s economic growth, celebrate the success of both established and up-and-coming entrepreneurs, and encourage the vital growth of the state’s small and medium-scale industries.

“This event marks the 20th Anniversary of the Award, a milestone that stands as testament to two decades of honouring Sarawak’s most inspiring business leaders,” said SCCI president, Datuk Philip Ting, in his opening remarks.

“Over the years we have recognised more than 80 exceptional entrepreneurs, most of whom (those that are still alive) have been invited to join us tonight for this celebration.

“This evening, on behalf of SCCI, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our EOYS 2025 award recipients. Each of you represents the best of Sarawak’s entrepreneurial spirit.

“Again our deepest appreciation goes to the Sarawak Government, through the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, Industry Terminal and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak (Mintred), and our long standing partner EY, for your unwavering collaboration and support that have sustained this award programme for 2 decades.”

The programme primarily recognises the individual entrepreneur, focusing on essential qualities such as outstanding leadership, vision, dedication, and intelligent risk-taking.

The evaluation process is comprehensive, also taking into account crucial business metrics, including:

— Company milestones and resilience in overcoming industry challenges.
— Corporate culture, values, and financial performance.
— ESG initiatives (Environmental, Social, and Governance).
— Contribution to the community.
— Successful adoption of technology to drive business transformation.

The EOYS Awards recipients under the Master Entrepreneur Category this year are Jordan Ong Chung Siang (representing SME Association of Sarawak); Aaron Tay Kok Tung (representing Kuching Chinese General Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCGCCI)); Goh Kim Sim (representing Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association (SHEDA)); Tommy Raymond Jok (representing Orang Ulu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OUCCI)); and Chan Mou Kei (representing Sarawak Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI)).

This year, SCCI proudly celebrates and honours one deserving recipient, Dato Prof (Dr) Lau Siu Wai- an EOYS alumnus – with the Sarawak State Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award, recognising his continued entrepreneurial excellence, inspiring leadership, and lasting impact on the community.

In the past, EOYS recipients have been nominated by the Adjudicating Committee to represent Sarawak at the EY Entrepreneur of the Year (EOY) Malaysia Awards, a global platform that recognises outstanding Malaysian entrepreneurs and fosters networking, collaboration, and the sharing of innovative ideas.

Dato Prof (Dr) Lau Siu Wai
Sarawak State Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award

Dato Prof (Dr) Lau Siu Wai’s name is synonymous with Miri’s transformation from a modest oil town into one of Sarawak’s most vibrant and modern cities. At 95, his entrepreneurial spirit remains as sharp as ever, a living testament to lifelong resilience, discipline, and a vision that has shaped generations.

Born in 1931 in Zhaozhou, Guangdong, China, Lau came to Miri alone in 1953 to work for Sarawak Shell Oilfield Ltd. Starting as a typist and later progressing to the engineering department, he exemplified self-discipline and a commitment to lifelong learning, earning his Cambridge Higher School Certificate as a private candidate, an early indication of his determination to transcend limitations.

When retrenched in 1964, Lau turned adversity into opportunity by founding his own civil engineering and construction business. In 1966, he launched Merbau Garden, Miri’s first major housing project, which pioneered the city’s modern housing landscape and set the stage for what would become a lifelong journey of nation-building through property development.

Over the next five decades, Lau’s leadership of the Miri Housing Development Group of Companies produced an unparalleled portfolio of residential and commercial projects, with total development expenditure exceeding RM 2.7 billion. His group has completed over 15,000 residential and commercial units, creating thriving communities that define the Miri skyline today.

Among his signature developments are Merbau Garden, Piasau Garden, Hilltop Garden, Lai Pau Garden, King’s Park, Bintang Jaya Commercial Centre, Bintang Megamall, Meritz Hotel, and Desa Senadin Mixed Development. The latter alone comprises more than 30,000 units built, with another 1,200 in progress.

Lau’s entrepreneurial courage is perhaps best illustrated by his ability to persevere through the 1970s oil crisis, rising material costs, and various business setbacks. His resilience — even surviving on leftover food during financial hardship — embodies a rare strength of character.

Legacy of excellence

Beyond business, Dato Prof (Dr) Lau Siu Wai is a firm believer in giving back to society. He has made significant contributions to healthcare and welfare organisations, including ongoing support for the Miri Palliative Association, which provides home-based care, hospital beds, and equipment to cancer patients.

A lifelong advocate for education, he continues to sponsor scholarships and school facilities, often doing so anonymously. His community engagement and philanthropy exemplify responsible entrepreneurship grounded in compassion and service.

Over 72 years in Miri, Lau has built more than just businesses — he has built institutions, communities, and hope. His vision transformed Miri into a hub for commerce, housing, and education; his perseverance through adversity has set a benchmark for leadership; and his humility has earned him admiration across generations.

At 95, Dato Prof (Dr) Lau Siu Wai remains a living symbol of Sarawak’s entrepreneurial spirit — a man of iron will, boundless faith, and enduring purpose.

Education has always been central to Lau’s life philosophy. In 1964, he co-founded the Miri Private Secondary School to provide underprivileged children a second chance at learning. Although he later left the school, his belief in education as a tool for empowerment remained steadfast.

In 1998, Lau spearheaded one of his proudest legacies — the establishment of Curtin University Malaysia, the first international branch campus in Borneo. His vision transformed Miri into an educational hub, attracting thousands of students and educators from around the world.

He further contributed to the creation of Tenby International School (2012) and played key roles in founding Pei Min Middle School and Riam Road Secondary School. His academic achievements include PhDs in Engineering Technology, Business Administration, and Project Management from InterAmerican University, as well as honorary doctorates from Hanshan Normal University and other institutions.

A true innovator, Lau’s story is one of constant reinvention. From property to education and hospitality, his ventures have redefined standards for quality, sustainability, and community well-being.

His resilience through multiple business failures, and his ability to turn each setback into success,epitomise the entrepreneurial spirit celebrated by this award. He often says, “Failure is just a chance to improve — the word ‘impossible’ is not in my dictionary.”

Today, his sons manage the group while he remains an active mentor and guiding presence. His story continues to inspire a new generation of Sarawakian entrepreneurs to pursue excellence with humility and courage.

Jordan Ong Chung Siang
Master Entrepreneur Category (representing SME Association of Sarawak)

Jordan Ong Chung Siang is a visionary Sarawakian entrepreneur who has successfully transformed WB Resources Sdn Bhd into a dynamic and trusted player in the region’s technology and business landscape.

Under his stewardship, WB Resources evolved from a professional audio-visual system integrator into a diversified technology enterprise offering digital solutions, technology consulting, project management and advanced technology integration.

His entrepreneurial foresight and resilience have enabled the company to thrive amid rapid market shifts, establishing a solid reputation for quality, innovation and customer-centricity.

Since assuming leadership, Ong has driven WB Resources toward strategic diversification and sustained growth.

His focus on quality assurance, operational excellence and after-sales support has elevated the company’s credibility across industries. He also spearheaded the company’s digital transformation, integrating advanced technologies that enhanced operational efficiency and client engagement; positioning WB Resources as a forward-looking, technology-enabled business.

WB Resources was founded with a vision to deliver high-tech, integrated products and services that bring tangible value to clients. Guided by Jordan’s leadership, the company has expanded into multiple sectors, aligning its capabilities with Sarawak’s evolving industrial and technological landscape.

The company’s journey was marked by challenges common to growing enterprises — navigating market volatility, sustaining financial health and maintaining quality standards amid expansion. Ong managed these challenges through prudent risk assessment, innovation-led strategies and a people-focused approach that strengthened both client trust and staff loyalty.

Today, WB Resources stands as a multi-sector enterprise with a diversified portfolio and a strong market presence. The company’s continued success reflects Ong’s strategic acumen and ability to balance innovation with sound business management.

Innovative approaches

Innovation has always been the cornerstone of Jordan’s leadership. Under his guidance, WB Resources embraced digital transformation — introducing integrated technology systems that streamline workflows, enhance transparency and strengthen customer engagement.

By fostering a solutions-driven culture, Ong ensures that every project delivers both functional excellence and strategic value. This commitment to continuous innovation differentiates WB Resources from competitors and reinforces its position as a trusted partner across industries.

Ong’s vision for WB Resources is anchored in sustainable and inclusive growth. His strategies focus on diversification, strategic partnerships, and global connectivity. By aligning the company’s operations with Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, he ensures WB Resources contributes meaningfully to the state’s aspiration of becoming an innovation-led, developed economy.

He continues to expand the company’s network through collaborations with local and international partners, opening new market opportunities and strengthening long-term competitiveness. His forward-looking approach ensures that WB Resources remains agile, adaptable and relevant in an evolving economic landscape.

Under Ong’s leadership, WB Resources has made a notable contribution to Sarawak’s economy by supporting high-value local projects, generating employment and engaging local suppliers.

The company’s sustained growth has strengthened regional competitiveness and created opportunities for smaller businesses through subcontracting, knowledge-sharing and industry partnerships. By prioritising local participation, WB Resources helps to develop Sarawak’s talent pool and industrial capacity in alignment with broader state objectives.

Technology adoption lies at the heart of WB Resources’ transformation. Jordan has championed the use of advanced digital tools in project management, customer engagement and internal communications enhancing efficiency, transparency and responsiveness.

These efforts have positioned WB Resources as a model of digital readiness within Sarawak’s SME sector, proving that innovation and sustainability can coexist at the core of business success.

Under Ong’s leadership, the company continues to embrace change, redefine boundaries and shape the future of technology-driven enterprise in Sarawak.

Aaron Tay Kok Tung
Master Entrepreneur Award (representing KCGCCI)

Aaron Tay Kok Tung is a Sarawakian entrepreneur whose achievements in business and community service have earned him widespread respect across the state.

At just 40 years old, he serves as the director of several successful companies: Tay Motors (M) Sdn Bhd, Borneo Wei Chiang Sdn Bhd, and Tay Motors, all specialising in the sales and servicing of motorcycles.

Since founding his first business in 2009, Tay has led with vision and determination, transforming his enterprises into trusted brands within Malaysia’s motorcycle industry.

His reputation for reliability, innovation, and customer commitment has established him as one of the most influential young business leaders in East Malaysia.

Tay’s businesses have grown steadily over 15 years, achieving significant milestones in both market share and regional reach.

Between 2018 and 2024, his companies recorded combined motorcycle sales of 34,234 units, averaging nearly 4,900 units annually, with projections indicating more than 5,000 units in 2025.

His companies’ success stems from strong customer relationships, high professional service standards, and a deep understanding of market needs in Sarawak and Borneo.

Tay’s business growth is driven by an innovative approach to sales and brand partnerships. Under Edaran Modenas, his company achieved Platinum Dealer status for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024), averaging 544 motorcycles sold annually.

Similarly, under MForce Bike Holdings, Tay Motors became a Platinum Dealer and was ranked 4th nationwide in 2019, 2022, and 2023.

His leadership also introduced high-value retail innovations, including the launch of the first KTM Flagship Store in Borneo (2021), the TIMSUM Franchisee for Kuching (2022), and the first MForce Best Shop in Borneo (2023). All of these initiatives helped to elevate the motorcycle retail experience in East Malaysia.

Tay’s long-term strategy focuses on continuous business expansion and strategic partnerships with national brands. His emphasis on quality, service excellence, and regional diversification has driven year-on-year growth.

He continues to explore franchise development opportunities, service diversification, and regional dealership networks to sustain momentum and strengthen his business presence across Sarawak and Sabah.

Tay’s companies contribute significantly to Sarawak’s economic ecosystem. In addition to creating employment, they serve as major distributors, connecting global brands with local consumers and supporting both upstream and downstream supply chains.

By sustaining sales volume and service excellence,Tay’s enterprises have boosted local spending and strengthened Sarawak’s position in the national motorcycle retail sector.

He has demonstrated strong resilience amid economic fluctuations and market competition. His ability to maintain consistent sales growth from 2018 to 2024, despite industry volatility, reflects solid business fundamentals and adaptive management.

Goh Kim Sim Master Entrepreneur Award (representing Sheda)

Goh Kim Sin, group managing director of Top Green Group, is a Sarawakian entrepreneur whose life story embodies resilience, discipline, and visionary leadership.

Born in Putien, Fujian, China, he arrived alone in Kuching at the age of ten and, through determination and perseverance, built a distinguished career in business spanning multiple industries.

His entrepreneurial journey began with the founding of Teck Lee Seng, a coffee manufacturing enterprise that launched Kopi Cap Tangan in 1968 — a brand that has since become a beloved household name in Sarawak.

His expansion into fast-moving consumer goods distribution across Sarawak and Sabah laid the foundation for his future success, sharpening his instincts in business operations, leadership, and strategic diversification.

Goh’s approach is rooted in hands-on leadership, meticulous attention to detail, and leading by example. These early experiences shaped his philosophy of building long-term trust through operational excellence and ethical business conduct.

In the early 2000s, Goh co-founded Top Green Group, bringing together professionals, engineers, and architects to deliver high-quality residential developments.

Under his leadership, the group has completed over 2,000 housing units across Kuching and Kota Kinabalu. Its portfolio includes Green Gate Residences, The Garcinia at Tabuan Tranquillity, Tropical Height, Greenery Heights, and Taman Cerah in Kota Kinabalu.

The company’s landmark projects — Canggih Heights condominium and Canning Residences in Tabuan Jaya — showcase its evolution into premium and lifestyle-focused property development.

Top Green Group was established with a vision to create sustainable, community-centred residential developments in East Malaysia. Through strategic leadership and teamwork, the company has grown into one of Sarawak’s most trusted names in the property development sector.

Like many property developers, Top Green has navigated economic fluctuations, regulatory changes, and the market slowdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. Goh’s steady leadership ensured business continuity by embracing digital tools, streamlining operations, and enhancing agility to sustain performance through uncertainty.

Under Goh’s stewardship, Top Green Group has maintained consistent project delivery and client satisfaction. The company’s focus on design quality, ethical practices, and community value has built its strong market reputation.

Goh’s vision is to position Top Green Group as a regional leader in sustainable residential development, focusing on long-term value creation, quality over quantity, and community well-being.

In line with this growth strategy, the company is strengthening its presence across Sarawak and Sabah, with more than 2,000 new housing units planned in key emerging areas.

Strategic expansion is underway in growth corridors such as Moyan and Jalan Stephen Yong in Kuching, as well as along Jalan Tuaran Bypass in Kota Kinabalu—locations carefully selected for their rising development potential and alignment with the Group’s vision of creating family-oriented, lifestyle-driven communities.

Top Green has also expanded its portfolio with projects such as Canning Residences, a luxury condominium in Tabuan Jaya, Kuching, that redefines modern urban living through generous layouts, elegant architecture, and resort-inspired facilities.

The success of Canning Residences reflects the Group’s ability to evolve with market trends and meet the rising demand for high-quality, sustainable developments.

Through Top Green Group’s operations, Goh has contributed significantly to Sarawak’s housing development and job creation. The company’s projects improve housing access, elevate construction standards, and stimulate the local economy by engaging local suppliers and contractors.

Top Green has embraced digital tools to enhance project management, operational transparency, and customer engagement. Under Goh’s leadership, these initiatives have strengthened coordination, improved cost management, and streamlined client communication.

In addition to BIM and drone photogrammetry and overlay technology mentioned in the Innovative Approach section, Top Green is also adopting digital marketing platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to expand outreach and strengthen brand visibility. The company also utilises virtual walkthrough platforms like Matterport, enabling customers to experience projects in immersive 3D environments.

Top Green’s latest development, Canning Residences, integrates smart home technologies that enhance comfort, security, and energy efficiency — reflecting the company’s forward-looking approach to sustainable and modern lifestyle design.

Tommy Raymond Jok
Master Entrepreneur Award (representing OUCCI)

Tommy Raymond Jok is a Sarawakian entrepreneur distinguished for his ability to transform challenges into opportunities. Since assuming leadership of Fastart Sdn Bhd in 2003, he has spearheaded the company’s remarkable evolution from a traditional timber and construction enterprise into one of Malaysia’s leading Bumiputera oil and gas maintenance service providers.

Guided by a clear strategic vision and deep industry insight, Tommy successfully repositioned Fastart to serve both upstream and downstream sectors. His entrepreneurial aptitude is marked by foresight, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to operational excellence.

Under Tommy’s leadership, Fastart diversified into structural and piping works, civil construction, industrial rope access, and blasting and painting services. The company became an IRATA-certified member in 2014, reflecting its adherence to international safety and technical standards.

Among its most notable achievements, Fastart received the Silver Award (Large Category) at the Sarawak Chief Minister’s Industry Excellence Awards 2021, underscoring its strong operational performance and contribution to the state’s economic growth.

Established initially as a timber and construction company, Fastart charted a new course under Tommy’s leadership. Recognising the potential of Sarawak’s expanding energy sector, he strategically redirected the company toward the oil and gas industry.

This transformation required overcoming multiple challenges — from meeting industry-specific compliance requirements to retraining the workforce and establishing credibility among major clients. Tommy addressed these hurdles through sound risk management, targeted upskilling, and a culture of continuous improvement.

Over the years, Fastart has recorded steady growth, diversified its service offerings, and built a strong reputation for reliability and excellence. The company’s long-term partnerships and consistent delivery of quality projects stand as a testament to its solid performance under Tommy’s stewardship.

Innovative approach to growth

Tommy has embedded innovation into Fastart’s corporate DNA. He introduced digital project management systems and ISO 9001 quality frameworks, improving efficiency, transparency, and project outcomes.

Fastart’s venture into the Honeywell Tank Gauging System and Services for the downstream market demonstrates its ability to identify and lead in niche areas. This strategic move set the company apart from competitors while solidifying its reputation as a forward-thinking service provider.

Tommy’s vision is to position Fastart as a multi-disciplinary engineering and maintenance firm with sustainable, technology-driven growth. His strategy combines diversification, investment in modern technology, and talent development.

Fastart has expanded into civil construction and infrastructure maintenance, covering roads, bridges, and building works. The company’s roadmap emphasises steady regional expansion, capability enhancement, and stronger collaboration with key industrial and government stakeholders.

Fastart’s growth has contributed meaningfully to Sarawak’s economy through job creation, skills development, and local supply chain engagement. Its projects strengthen the state’s industrial base, particularly in the oil and gas sector, while fostering opportunities for Bumiputera participation in high-value industries.

Chan Mou Kei
Master Entrepreneur Award (representing SCCI)

Chan Mou Kei is the managing director of Mega Coach Sdn Bhd, a Sarawak-based transportation company that plays a pivotal role in supporting industrial operations, particularly in the Samalaju Industrial Zone.

His leadership reflects innovation, operational excellence, and strong community commitment, positioning the company as a strategic enabler of Sarawak’s industrial and economic growth.

Mega Coach was incorporated in October 2006, initially focusing on bus and coach body manufacturing before expanding into workforce transportation services. Headquartered in Kuching with a branch office and workshop in Bintulu, the company serves major industrial clients, particularly within the Samalaju Industrial Zone.

Over the years, Mega Coach has evolved into a trusted provider of large-scale employee transportation, ensuring dependable and safe mobility that supports the daily operations of Sarawak’s industrial workforce.

Founded by a team of industry veterans with extensive experience in bus manufacturing and operations, the company has built and sold more than 100 buses across Sabah and Sarawak, earning a strong reputation for efficiency, reliability, and service quality.

Mega Coach leverages technology to enhance operational efficiency and service quality. The company employs a smart fleet management system with GPS tracking and predictive maintenance to minimise downtime and optimise fuel consumption.

To ensure transparency and accountability, the company provides monthly performance reports and driver performance dashboards that support continuous improvement.

Additionally, Mega Coach has upgraded its fleet with EURO 5 Green Engines, classified as Enhanced Environmentally Friendly Vehicles (EEV), which significantly reduce emissions and contribute to cleaner, more sustainable industrial operations.

Under Chan’s leadership, Mega Coach continues to expand its reach and strengthen client relationships through customised service offerings and real-time performance dashboards.

The company has extended its operations to Bintulu town and surrounding industrial zones, reflecting its broader responsibility to Bintulu’s development as well as reinforcing its role as a key transport partner for Sarawak’s industrial sector.

Mega Coach is also modernising its fleet by introducing mid-size vans, ad hoc charter services, and technology-driven upgrades to enhance efficiency and flexibility.

Looking ahead, the company plans to further expand its fleet and adopt sustainable transport solutions in alignment with Sarawak’s Green Economy agenda, ensuring long-term growth and environmental responsibility.

The adoption of GPS-enabled fleet systems, digital dashboards, and predictive maintenance tools exemplifies Mega Coach’s commitment to modernisation.

These innovations improve service efficiency, reduce costs, and enable data-driven decision-making — reinforcing its position as a forward-looking transportation leader in Sarawak.

Mega Coach plays a crucial role in enabling daily workforce mobility for major industrial clients such as OCIM, Press Metal, Sakura, and OM Materials, ensuring smooth plant operations and productivity.

The company creates employment opportunities, supports the local supply chain, and contributes to economic circulation through spending on fuel, maintenance, and services. Its work connects rural workers to industrial jobs and sustains operational reliability for Sarawak’s major industrial zones.

Mega Coach demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and community development. By consolidating worker transportation, the company effectively reduces road congestion, fuel consumption, and carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment and improved infrastructure efficiency.

Its investment in green engine technologies further reinforces its dedication to sustainable operations and responsible resource management.