Chamber hopes to expand influence

Chamber hopes to expand influence

Newly elected President of the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah Chapter, Datuk Dexter Lau, hopes to further expand the chamber’s influence.

He said this influence should be reflected statistically especially when the total revenue of all members reaches a significant scale, the chamber will be able to consistently offer advice to policymakers.

“We remain neutral and do not interfere, but we can provide development advice to avoid policies that may negatively impact the business environment.

“The chamber aims to offer professional input to achieve collective growth,” Lau remarked after being elected to the post unopposed during its annual general meeting at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
“My vision is to ensure that every member experiences the growth they deserve throughout the journey and that all member enterprises can thrive in their respective fields,” he said.

“In the next three years, I hope to see every member expand their business, enhance their recognition, build wider networks, and attract more investment and experience to collectively develop our homeland,” he said.

He said the MCCC has already nurtured many talents who now lead NGOs, public listed companies, or major institutions.

On the issue of women’s representation, Lau revealed that while the chamber previously had a youth wing and a women’s section, the current council has only one outstanding woman representative.

“I don’t want to force things. Pushing ahead when they are not ready will only lead to problems.

“Six months ago, I decided to dissolve the youth wing and transferred those funds to the women’s section, giving them greater resources for training activities,” he said.

He noted that 30–40 per cent of the current council comprises young people he has nurtured over the past three to six years.

These youths are now holding key positions, which is unprecedented in Sabah’s business circles.

This, he said, helps them integrate into the socio-economic landscape.

“I provide a platform. As long as one works hard, one can improve their capabilities and grow their business,” he added.

He added, “Back when I was the deputy overseeing the youth wing and the women’s section, after dissolving the youth wing, I redirected double the funds to the women’s section.

Earlier, in his speech, Lau also acknowledged the chamber’s three founding presidents and past leaders, who laid the groundwork by creating a quality platform for business opportunities and learning in helping companies grow and create wealth.

He emphasised that business is wealth, and wealth is business, both require mutual support.

The legacy they left behind is reflected in their tireless efforts to lead members and committees toward continued improvement.

He stressed that the chamber has no intention to amend its constitution but will strictly adhere to it.

Each president may only serve two consecutive terms before handing over the baton to the younger generation, as was done today.

The most senior members are now taking on more important roles.

Besides Lau, who is Executive Director of Kim Teck Cheong, the MCCC office bearers include Kapitan Dr Tan Kai Lee as Deputy President.

This is followed by Vice Presidents – Chin Thau Chung @ Jacky Chin, Su Khon Fen and Lau Jiin Woei.

Other office bearers are Ivan Chai Bor Yuan (secretary), Shawn Tan Cen Ven (treasurer), and Tommy Lo Chun Sian (assistant treasurer).