For business. For growth. For life.

KDN No : PP18711/04/2015(034171) - Vol 4

14
18
22

4
8

Contents
Widad Builders Sdn. Bhd.

Ayu Women Care Sdn. Bhd.

Mariwasa Kraftangan Sdn. Bhd.

Amanjaya Specialist Centre Sdn. Bhd.

Langkawi Auto Express Sdn. Bhd.

Editorial Team

SME Bank Group Logo - English & Bahasa Malaysia

Advisor

Printing

Datuk Mohd Radzif Mohd Yunus

Wai Xin Industries Sdn. Bhd. (611508-K)

No. 23, Jalan PBS 14/13
Taman Perindustrian Bukit Serdang
43300 Sri Kembangan, Selangor
Tel: +603 8945 7477

Executive Editor
Khairil Anuar Mohammad Anuar
Editor
Abdul Latiff Puteh
Contributors
Saripah Radziah Sayed Hamid
Raja Sharizat Raja Redzwa
Norsalwa Zakaria
Photographer
Wan Badaru Sukry Wan Abdullah

Published By

Small Medium Enterprise Development

Bank Malaysia Berhad (49572-H)
Menara SME Bank, Jalan Sultan Ismail
50250 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +603 2615 2020 Fax: +603 2698 1748
Call Centre : 1800 88 3131
www.smebank.com.my

To support the Governments Bumiputera

Empowerment Agenda and based on the RM100
million allocation given to SME Bank during the
2017 budget announcement, SME Bank will be more
aggressive in offering assistance to the targeted
groups and this include the Skim Anjakan Usahawan
to accelerate the growth of Bumiputera SMEs.
Datuk Mohd Radzif Mohd Yunus

Foreword

SME Bank welcomes the Governments move

achievement to our on-going initiatives including

to proclaim 2017 as a Start-up and SME

customer engagement activities such as XCESS

Promotion Year." In line with the emphasis on

2016,

the SME sector in the Budget, we will broaden

Open Day.

our outreach to SMEs and intensify our efforts

SME Banks XCESS 2016 provided opportunity

to spur the growth of the sector in the country.

for entrepreneurs to interact directly with

Outreach

Programme

and

Customer

Held for the first time this year,

the Bank and explore ways to expand their

The

introduction

of

the

National

Export

businesses. Our Outreach Programme was held

Promotion Fund, tax reduction and insurance

at 15 locations throughout the country this year,

credit facility with coverage value of up to

while the Customer Open Day was held at four

RM1 billion to SMEs in the 2017 Budget augurs

locations. These programmes allow us to reach

well for growth of the SME sector, especially in

out to our existing and prospective clients in a

achieving targets under the SME Master Plan

more personalised manner.

(2012-2020). These incentives will not only

assist SMEs to grow and capture opportunities

Going forward, I would like to see SMEs in the

in domestic and international markets, but also

country capitalising on government incentives

cushion them from the impact of economic

and SME Banks various products and services

uncertainties and help them to be agile in tough

to take up the challenges in this highly

economic conditions.

competitive business environment. On our part,

we will continue to nurture, coach and support

To

support

the

Governments

Bumiputera

local SMEs to be like those we featured in this

Empowerment Agenda and based on the RM100

edition of INFRONT Magazine -- entrepreneurs

million allocation given to SME Bank during the

who dare to venture into untapped market

2017 budget announcement, SME Bank will

space, persevere in the face of adversities and

be more aggressive in offering assistance to

successful in their respective niche markets.

the targeted groups and this include the Skim

Anjakan Usahawan to accelerate the growth of

Enjoy reading this issue of INFRONT Magazine

Bumiputera SMEs.

and allow me to wish everyone a happy and

blessed 2017.

I am pleased to note that our efforts in

supporting and nurturing the SMEs have been
recognised where we were recently presented
with the Top SME Supporter Award in the
Platinum Business Awards 2016 event organised
by SME Association of Malaysia. I attribute this

Thank you and wassalam.

Datuk Mohd Radzif Mohd Yunus

Group Managing Director

SME Bank Group

WidadBuilders
Sdn. Bhd.

(536572-D)
Customer of SME BANK since 2012

Widad Builders, which was incorporated in

2001 as a Bumiputera contractor, has grown
to be a diversified company with businesses in
integrated facility management, construction,
operations and maintenance, mechanical and
electrical services, building automation system
and energy management. Following the group
Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal
Opat Abdullah,
Group Executive Chairman of
Widad Business Group

HARNESSING HUMAN CAPITAL

FOR GROWTH

restructuring exercise in 2015, Widad Builders

is now part of Widad Business Group which is
involved in property development, education,
media & ICT services, hospitality industry and
aquaculture.

Widad Builders Sdn. Bhd. (Widad Builders), a

For Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal, the biggest

diversified company, sees its employees as key

challenge in business is to be able to adapt to

asset. Widad Builders provides its employees

the changing environment. He strongly believes

with good benefits and remuneration as well

in the need to invest time and effort into

as training opportunities to equip them with

improving and refining the skills of employees so

the necessary hard and soft skills in enhancing

as to maintain the companys competitiveness

their capabilities and competencies. Tan Sri

in the constantly evolving business climate.

Muhammad Ikmal Opat Abdullah (Tan Sri

It is important to remember that as a leader,

Muhammad Ikmal), Group Executive Chairman

we cannot achieve our goals without building

of Widad Business Group, said human capital is

a talented, engaged team, he said.

one of key strategic assets in the organisation,

Muhammad Ikmal leads by being realistic and

thus, it is important to value the employees

persistent in achieving the Companys mission

contributions and acknowledge their role in

and vision as well as transforming it to reach

achieving organizational objectives.

greater heights. Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal

Tan Sri

management, best practices and management

capabilities. Widad Builders is also recognised
by Kementerian Kerja Raya (KKR) as a High
Performance Bumiputera Contractor (KBBT)
Grade A by the Entrepreneur and Contractor
Development Division.
In addition, Widad Builders is recognised as
the High Performance Bumiputera Company
(TERAS) by TERAJU in facility management
and

developing

first-class

mega

buildings.

The Company has been appointed by TERAJU

and CIDB as a Centre of Excellence since
2013 to develop human capital in the facility
maintenance services sector, besides providing
training for professional graduates in facility
maintenance.
advocates that transformational leadership goes
beyond attaining your own goals and by sharing
collective objectives with our employees, we
also instil a common vision and mission. Tan
Sri Muhammad Ikmal remarked, As a group,
we strive to improve the organization amidst
constraints and challenges by adopting a holistic
approach towards sustainability and steadfastly
navigate the best of our abilities beyond the
boundaries of our comfort zone.
Widad

Builders

has

received

string

As a group, we strive to
improve the organization
amidst constraints and
challenges by adopting a
holistic approach towards
sustainability and steadfastly
navigate the best of our
abilities beyond the boundaries
of our comfort zone.

of

recognitions and accolades. In January 2016, the

company received the National One-Star Rating
for Energy Management for JB Sentral Building.
In 2014, Widad Builders was awarded with The
Best Facilities Management Award 2014 (Building
Category) by Public Works Department (JKR)
in conjunction with Majlis Hari Inovasi JKR
Malaysia 2014. The Company has been accorded
a Four-Star Rating by Construction Industry
Development Board (CIDB) for improvement
in business performance, financial, technical
capabilities, project management, procurement
5

Hard work, passion and determination do come

a long way, as shown by Widad Builderss
journey to success. Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal,
who founded Widad Business Group, said
Widad Builders started out small but with high
aspirations. From humble beginnings in Kedah,
Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal had led the Company
through various challenges and obstacles to
where it is today a respectable brand name

Hard work, passion

and determination
do come a long way,
as shown by Widad
Builderss journey to
success.

with proven track record in Malaysia.

Along the way, Widad Builders received financial

Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal has several pointers

support from SME Bank, where in 2012, the Bank

for young entrepreneurs. His advice to them

extended financing facilities to the Company,

is to have a strong passion in what you do, be

namely term financing for the purchase of assets

honest, maintain strong work ethics and look for

and working capital for the business needs. Tan

good mentors. He cautioned new entrepreneurs

Sri Muhammad Ikmals efforts and achievements

that without passion, failure in their venture is

in building Widad group of businesses from

potentially high. Therefore, when faced with a

scratch have earned him a prestigious award,

failure, one should focus on positive thinking

The BrandLaureate Most Eminent Brand Icon

and accept it as a learning process towards

Leadership Award 2016 at The BrandLaureate

overcoming the shortcomings and attaining

Brand Icon Leadership Awards 2016.

your goals. Strong passion and determination

can help you achieve success.

Facing risks and uncertainties at the beginning

After over more than a decade, Widad Builders

of any new venture is a norm and can be nerve-

is now poised to achieve greater success with

racking, disappointing, mind-boggling, terrifying

the available opportunities and support from

all at once. Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal encourages

stakeholders. The Company is set to be in a

young entrepreneurs to take advantage of

stronger position after the completion of a

networking opportunities with both new and

group restructuring exercise that will create

established entrepreneurs to share ideas, gain

synergy and cross fertilisation of ideas within

knowledge and learn from their entrepreneurial

the organisation. With Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal

experiences. Although younger generations

at the helm, Widad Business Group aspires to

can claim to be more tech-savvy than the more

be the most trusted multinational corporation

experienced entrepreneurs, however, there are

in its areas of expertise by living its corporate

still basic principles that can be shaped and

values of Worthiness, Ingenuity, Synergy and

gained via long years of experience.

Efficient as well as delivering sustainable value

to all stakeholders.

Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal has several pointers for young

entrepreneurs. His advice to them is to have a strong
passion in what you do, be honest, maintain strong work
ethics and look for good mentors. He cautioned new
entrepreneurs that without passion, failure in their venture is
potentially high.
Tan Sri Muhammad Ikmal Opat Abdullah

Dr. Siti Rohayu

Kamarul Baharain and
Encik Zulfila Muhamad,
Directors of Ayu Women
Care Sdn. Bhd.

AYUWomen Care
Sdn. Bhd.

(1036722-T)

Customer of SME BANK since 2013

ALL GEARED UP FOR MODERN

HOSPITAL
Ayu Women Care Sdn. Bhd. (Ayu Women Care)

enterprise to take over an established maternity

is bullish with future prospects after it embarked

hospital, Wisma Pakar Perbidanan & Sakit Puan.

on the upgrading and rebranding exercise of

The Company initially commenced operations

a modern maternity centre. With a stream of

with basic amenities and a minimum number of

repeat customers and a wider range of services

staff. Nevertheless, this did not dampen its plans

offered, the outlook is positive for Ayu Women

to realise its vision to grow the maternity centre

Care. The Company also has a strong presence

to be a state-of-the-art hospital.

in Facebook, which serves to promote its

services and allow clients to provide feedback

Today,

Ayu

Women

Centre

is

confidently

and testimonials. Located in Sg. Petani, Kedah,

pursuing its role as a premier maternity service

Ayu Women Care was set up in 2013 as a small

provider. Following the upgrading exercise,

Wisma Pakar Perbidanan & Sakit Puan is all

available to patients. Not only do we see repeat

geared up to transform into a modern, clean

customers, but they have recommended friends

and beautiful hospital. Ayu Women Care has

and families to come for our services. This has

been experiencing steady growth since 2013. Its

contributed to our sure and steady growth and

Director, Dr. Siti Rohayu Kamarul Baharain said,

stronger establishment of our brand in the local

taking over an established maternity centre

community, said Dr. Siti Rohayu.

meant the Company had the advantage of

having existing patients while at the same time,
focusing on attracting new patients.
The maternity centre saw a slow but stable
increase in child delivery rate despite cost
constraints and the introduction of GST in 2015,
which has affected many other maternity centres.
More infertility treatment modalities such as
Intra Uterine Insemination (IUI) was introduced
due to demand from patients.

Ayu Women

Care has also upgraded the scan machines so

Following the upgrading

exercise, Wisma Pakar
Perbidanan & Sakit Puan is all
geared up to transform into a
modern, clean and beautiful
hospital. Ayu Women Care
has been experiencing steady
growth since 2013.

that 3D, 4D and anomaly scans can be made

Most

of

patient

testimonials

expressed

satisfaction with the services provided, which

according to them, is value for money. Patients
cited the cost of a stay in a single ensuite
room following childbirth was at a fraction of
the price compared to other centres. Some
of the testimonials shared by patients on the
Facebook page of Wisma Pakar Perbidanan
& Sakit Puan had praises for friendly doctors
and staff, and satisfying medical consultations.
There are patients who were willing to deliver
their subsequent babies at the medical centre
even if they had moved far away from the centre.
Other patients spoke highly of Wisma Pakar
Perbidanan & Sakit Puans excellent service,
the spacious, comfortable, newly renovated
rooms, as well as affordable fees. Dr. Siti Rohayu
recalled that the main challenge since taking
over the hospital in 2013 was to establish a
medical centre that is modern and on par with
other healthcare facilities.
10

The first challenge was primarily monetary

as medical grade renovations and equipment
came at a hefty price. However, with the credit
facilities and financial assistance offered by SME
Bank, Ayu Women Care managed to overcome
this obstacle. The Operation Room and the
Labour Suites were the first to be upgraded
as they are the heart of the maternity centre
as well as the most important areas to ensure
patient safety. To make sure that it complied
with the high standards set by the Ministry of
Health, Ayu Women Care had commissioned an
architect, electrical and gas engineering team as
well as the contractor who were well versed in
the industry. These experts managed to execute
the project within the stipulated time, in a sealed

Most of patient
testimonials expressed
satisfaction with the
services provided, which
according to them, is
value for money. Patients
cited the cost of a stay
in a single ensuite room
following childbirth
was at a fraction of the
price compared to other
centres.

off the area to ensure that patients were not

affected by the dust and building materials.

11

During that time, the management continuously

are given regular one-on-one mentoring as well

communicated with the patients to ensure that

as motivation and support when needed.

they were comfortable and were only minimally

affected by the renovation works. To further

Dr.

enhance patients comfort, Ayu Women Care

style as transformational, where she aims to

upgraded all the rooms and ensuite toilets. This

transform the staffs performance and redirect

was done on a month by month basis, where one

their mindset to match that of a modern and

or two rooms were upgraded at a time. This is

established healthcare facility. This, she said, is

Siti

Rohayu

described

her

leadership

to facilitate full and uninterrupted operations of

the medical centre as well as reduce the financial
impact on the Companys cash flow.
In 2016, the external faade was upgraded.
Wisma Pakar Perbidanan & Sakit Puan, which
currently has 30 employees including midwifery
trained nurses, staff nurses, administrators,
clerks and general workers, offers various
services under Antenatal Check, Labour Room
(24 hours), Gynaecology Services, Women
Wellness Screening and Neonatal Immunisation.
To motivate the staff, Dr. Siti Rohayu said they

12

To further enhance
patients comfort, Ayu
Women Care upgraded
all the rooms and ensuite
toilets. This was done on
a month by month basis,
where one or two rooms
were upgraded at a time.

implemented without losing the human touch.

Malaysia and beyond. With the right strategies,

I constantly challenge and stimulate their

especially in providing affordable and quality

performance by frequent hands-on assessment

service,

sessions to improve the quality of their services.

commitment from the staff, Ayu Women Care

The staff are also inculcated with values that

is well on its way to achieve its mission of being

reflect the Companys vision to be a prominent

a premier women healthcare centre. In fact, the

and contemporary hospital which provides

effectiveness of the companys strategies is

unparalleled quality service to patients at an

proven by positive patient testimonials. Patient

affordable cost.

satisfaction can translate into more revenue to

managing

patients

comfort

and

the hospital due to increased volume of patients,

When asked about her advice to young

higher patient loyalty and more referrals.

entrepreneurs today, Dr. Siti Rohayu has this

to say, Never wait until you are truly ready to
start a business, because the time will never
come; but be ready to face all the challenges
in business that will surely come. A successful
business is one that has a humble beginning but
continuously grows in the face of all adversities.
Customers love the constantly growing business
as they feel they are a part of the progress.
Currently,

Ayu

Women

Care

is

seeking

opportunities to diversify its business in the

healthcare sector. Dr. Siti Rohayu envisions
the company to be one with clusters of small
hospitals under its wings and standing strong as
a prominent Bumiputera healthcare provider in

Never wait until you are truly ready to start a business,

because the time will never come; but be ready to face
all the challenges in business that will surely come. A
successful business is one that has a humble beginning
but continuously grows in the face of all adversities.
Customers love the constantly growing business as
they feel they are a part of the progress.
Dr. Siti Rohayu Kamarul Baharain

13

Mariwasa
Kraftangan
Sdn. Bhd.

(22257-H)

Customer of SME BANK since 2008

CREATING A NICHE IN PREMIUM

MARKET
Mariwasa Kraftangan Sdn. Bhd. (Mariwasa), a
premier manufacturer of handcrafted premium
giftware, medals and insignias, has come a
long way from its humble beginnings. Since
its inception some 30 years ago in July 1975,
the Company has steadily built a reputation
for

uncompromising

quality

and

design

excellence. Through the years, it has built a

team of experienced, creative and skilled local
craftsmen. This has enabled Mariwasa to offer
clients customised premium gift solutions in
variety of materials such as gold, silver, pewter,
fine wood, porcelain, brass, copper, bronze,

Datin Rosnah
Abdul Latif,
Managing Director of
Mariwasa Kraftangan
Sdn. Bhd.

crystal and others.

Managing Director of Mariwasa Kraftangan Sdn.
The Company, located in the royal town of

Bhd., Datin Rosnah Abdul Latif (Datin Rosnah)

Kuala

various

said in the early days, the Company only hired a

embellishments and finishing, which include

small number of workers. The rate of minimum

gold trimming, enamelling, gemstones, crystals,

pay for the workers was RM460 a month.

lacquering and hand-painting. The Companys

Sometimes, the workers did not receive their

success was built on hardwork, commitment,

salaries on time. The workers, however, received a

strong

bonus of RM300 or RM500. During those times,

Kangsar,

focus

determination.

14

Perak,

on

also

quality

offers

and

unwavering

the Company maintained its existing machinery

After overcoming various

obstacles, Mariwasa today
stands strong and stable
with good financial standing.
It has invested in multimillion ringgit machinery
and factory buildings. SME
Bank has been a strong
supporter of Mariwasas
expansion since 2008. The
Bank has extended a few
financing facilities to the
Company for the acquisition
of machinery and buildings.

without acquiring new ones.

Nevertheless,

Mariwasa

is

company

that

appreciates

Mariwasa persevered. It managed to go through

employees

difficult times and had successfully manoeuvred

employees by taking them on overseas holidays.

a few economic slowdowns and recessions.

Among

contribution

Mariwasas

and

employees

it
are

rewards
skilled

craftsmen, design experts, production staff and

After overcoming various obstacles, Mariwasa

sales personnel. The Company preserves skill

today stands strong and stable with good

continuity and promotes product growth by

financial standing. It has invested in multi-million

constantly train and retrain its people in existing

ringgit machinery and factory buildings. SME

and new skills. In addition to improving output

Bank has been a strong supporter of Mariwasas

and efficiency, the move also encourages the

expansion since 2008. The Bank has extended a

creativity and originality that the Company is

few financing facilities to the Company for the

renowned for. Asked on her leadership style,

acquisition of machinery and buildings.

The

financing were approved under Ijarah and Bai

Istisna facilities. Mariwasa now has more than
100 people on its payroll and the rate of minimum
wage has increased to RM1,000 a month. The
Company is able to pay high overtime rate
and annual bonus for the staff, based on their
performance.

15

Datin Rosnah said she emphasises continuous

improvement
policy. The

and

adheres

to

the

quality

Company strives to enhance the

effectiveness of the Quality Management System

(QMS) in order to enhance customer satisfaction.
The

Companys

operations

are

managed

according to its quality policy. According to

Datin Rosnah, the greatest challenge faced by
Mariwasa was the economic downturn as it had
a significant impact on the Companys earnings.
Nonetheless, the Company survived and is now
on expansion drive. Last year, Mariwasa was
the top 5 finalists of SME Bank Most Innovative
Entrepreneur Award, in a conjuction with the
SME Banks 10th Anniversary celebration.

16

Datin Rosnah said she

emphasises continuous
improvement and adheres
to the quality policy.
The Company strives to
enhance the effectiveness
of the Quality
Management System
(QMS) in order to enhance
customer satisfaction.

Persevere and focus on everything you do, always update

your knowledge of the current affairs and keep abreast with
developments in the countrys economy.
Datin Rosnah Abdul Latif

Mariwasa

also

seeks

to

improve

the

craftsmanship skills of its workers by setting

aside a special budget for the purpose of
sending

them

courses

to

for

external

enhance

trainings

their

and

performance.

Product diversification, innovative designs, skill

upgrading and brand positioning are winning
strategies to expand the market, create a
niche, attract more customers and increase
revenue.

Mariwasas

team

of

skilled

and

talented local craftsmen have contributed to

high quality and creative product designs. Its
excellent products and designs are respected
and admired by clients. For a company like
Mariwasa that continuously challenges itself
for innovation and further improvements, the
world is an oyster with endless possibilities for
On her advice to young entrepreneurs, Datin
Rosnah said: Persevere and focus on everything

expansion, greater market share and strong

product positioning.

you do, always update your knowledge of

the current affairs and keep abreast with
developments

in

the

countrys

economy.

Mariwasa has set its vision for brand positioning

beyond Malaysian shores. We are targeting
for global branding in the future, said Datin
Rosnah, adding that the Company also plans
to diversify its products in both domestic and
overseas markets. To achieve this, Mariwasa will
acquire more machinery to enhance the quality
of its products to make them more competitive
in the global market. The Company will also
increase the output capacity and capability of its
innovative product designs. At the same time, it
plans to undertake cost-cutting measures.

17

Amanjaya
Specialist Centre
Sdn. Bhd.

(684201-W)
Customer of SME BANK since 2012

RIDING ON GREEN INITIATIVES

Amanjaya Specialist Centre Sdn. Bhd. (Amanjaya
Specialist) is the pride of Malaysia as it is the
nations first green hospital. Adopting the
technology and design in its operations, the
hospital was set up in 2014 to provide a full
range of comprehensive specialist healthcare
services. The 100,000 sq. ft. Amanjaya Specialist
facility, located on a 1.01ha land in Sungai Petani,
Kedah, secured the Green Technology Financing
Scheme (GTFS) in 2012 from Green Tech Malaysia
to realise the green hospital project.

18

Dr. Tan Chiang Hooi,

Managing Director of
Amanjaya Specialist
Centre Sdn. Bhd.

According to the Managing Director of Amanjaya

One of the initiatives that Amanjaya Specialist

Specialist Centre Sdn. Bhd., Dr. Tan Chiang Hooi

has taken to preserve the environment is to

(Dr. Tan), the hospital received the award of the

install a Solar Photovoltaic, a system that

First Green Hospital in Malaysia in 2014 from

generates electricity without greenhouse gas

GBI (Green Building Index) Sdn. Bhd. A green

emissions and thus, not contributing to global

hospital,

connection

warming. The supply of hot water to patients

between human health and the environment,

rooms comes from the solar power, while the

continuously reduces environmental impact and

lights along the parameter of the building have

eliminates its contribution to diseases, enhances

been installed with photo sensors that will

patient well-being, aides the recovery process,

automatically switch off the lights during the

while at the same time, utilises natural resources

daytime. Another initiative is a recycling water

in an efficient and environment-friendly manner.

system derived from rainwater and air-con

Besides enhancing patients health and comfort,

condensate water for the purpose of irrigation.

a green hospital also improves indoor air quality,

This green technology significantly saves water.

reduces carbon dioxide emission and improves

Other energy efficient features at the specialist

water conservation.

centre include the VRF air-conditioning system

which

recognises

the

where it allows only the needed energy load

supply to the needed areas and a central
garden courtyard, where a skylight above
the central courtyard allows patients to enjoy
natural lighting and views from their bedrooms.
Amanjaya Specialist also allocates parking bays
equipped with power outlets for electric or
hybrid vehicles on its premises. It is understood
that the energy-efficient and sustainability
features in Amanjaya Specialist help reduce
its carbon dioxide emissions by about 20 per
cent and the operating costs by about 15 to
20 per cent. Dr. Tan, who is passionate about
creating an affordable healthcare centre in an
eco-friendly environment, expressed his hope
to duplicate an iconic project like Amanjaya
Specialist in other parts of the country and to
showcase the success and feasibility of building
a Green Hospital to other healthcare players in
Malaysia.

A green hospital, which

recognises the connection
between human health and
the environment, continuously
reduces environmental impact
and eliminates its contribution
to diseases, enhances patient
well-being, aides the recovery
process, while at the same time,
utilises natural resources in
an efficient and environmentfriendly manner.

19

Amanjaya Specialist has come a long way

to where it is now. When it was established
some 11 years ago, the health centre could only
provide limited specialist services due to lack of
funding and limited physical space. Dr. Tan said
at that time, the true potential of the business
could not be achieved and a holistic specialist
services could not be delivered to some of its
clients. However, with a new hospital premises,
Amanjaya Specialist is now able to offer a full
range of comprehensive specialist services
to almost all its patients which will contribute
towards the increased number of clientele
and enhanced customer satisfaction. Dr. Tan is
optimistic that these will translate into better
revenue for the Company.
For Dr. Tan, the biggest challenge in managing a
hospital is its human capital and financial issues.
Amanjaya Specialist banks on excellent service
and facilities to boost its revenue. However,
these are severely restricted due to the human
capital issues. There is always an acute shortage
of specialist doctors in the market and it is
not an easy task to attract them to a private
hospital located in a small town such as Sungai
Petani. Without permanent doctors, it is a big
risk for Amanjaya Specialist to invest in costly
equipment because if it is not fully utilised, it
would become obsolete as a result of advances
in medical technology. Similarly, it is difficult

Amanjaya Specialist always

make sure that all decisions,
solutions and instructions are
finalised, disseminated and
implemented the soonest
possible to ensure minimal
time wastage in delivering its
overall services and executing
the Companys decisions.
20

to hire nurses with post-basic qualifications as

required by the health authorities. Driven by
these challenges, Amanjaya Specialist

then

came out with a win-win solution to attract

specialist doctors by offering them equity
to promote ownership of the Company and
cultivate a sense of belonging. The specialist
centre also encourages as many staff nurses as
possible to pursue their post-basic qualification.
Financial issue is another challenge for Amanjaya
Specialist. The high running cost, large debts
and costly medical equipment place a heavy
strain on an average hospital with limited
financial resources like Amanjaya Specialist.
As 80 per cent of private hospital business
comes from insurance companies, any delay or
failure to obtain panelship from these insurance
companies will have an impact on the hospitals
revenue. To overcome this, Amanjaya Specialist
decided to continue delivering an affordable
specialist care with prudent cost containment in
all aspect of the hospital operations, from utility
bills to human resources. We are confident
that we will be successful in recruiting these
insurance companies in the future once we are
able to convince them of our competitive pricing
as well as the quality of our service, said Dr. Tan.

Amanjaya Specialists green hospital initiative has

received financial support mainly from SME Bank
as well as the governments Green Technology
Financing Scheme. To date, Amanjaya Specialist
employs 155 staff. The specialist centre strives
hard to create and nurture a pleasant working
environment for its staff to build a sense of

Do not be afraid to take

calculated risk to venture
into business that you
have the know-how.
Dr. Tan Chiang Hooi

belonging whereby they will be more engaged

in their job and they genuinely feel they have
a role to play in the organisation.

Having

Specialist. With its green hospital initiatives in

employees with a strong sense of belonging

place, Amanjaya Specialist is well positioned

will go a long way as it determines how much

to capitalise on Malaysias reputation as one of

employees enjoy their work and thus, their

the preferred locations for medical tourism. For

productivity. Amanjaya Specialist always make

a company that successfully built and operates

sure that all decisions, solutions and instructions

a GBI certified hospital in Malaysia, Amanjaya

are finalised, disseminated and implemented the

Specialist will continue to trail blaze the green

soonest possible to ensure minimal time wastage

healthcare sector in the country. There is a lot

in delivering its overall services and executing

to learn from Amanjaya Specialists success

the Companys decisions. Issues like patient

story. Green Hospital is the way forward in the

grievances, equipment acquisition and human

local healthcare sector given the high energy

capital are dealt with urgency and decision is

consumption by conventional hospitals and

finalised in shortest time possible.

medical centres. Hospitals, which operate 24

hours a day, will benefit greatly from green

On his advice to young entrepreneurs today, Dr.

building design that can lower operational costs

Tan said: Do not be afraid to take calculated

and carbon footprint, while at the same time,

risk to venture into business that you have the

optimises patient comfort.

know-how. The outlook is bright for Amanjaya

21

Langkawi
Auto Express
Sdn. Bhd.

(544605-U)
Customer of SME BANK since 2011

SAILING TOWARDS A CLEAR

HORIZON
Langkawi Auto Express Sdn. Bhd. (Langkawi
Auto Express), the operator of vehicle ferry
services, is upbeat of its business growth, in line
with the expansion of tourism sector in Langkawi.
Statistics from Langkawi Development Authority
(LADA) shows a double-digit increase in monthly
tourist arrivals in Langkawi via passenger ferry.
Between January and August this year, the
monthly number of tourists arriving via vehicle
ferry increased between 11.1 per cent and 56.9
per cent compared with the corresponding
period in 2015.
Langkawi, an island off the coast of Kedah in
the North of Peninsular Malaysia, is seeing a
steady increase in the number of tourists, both
local and foreign tourists. Visitors and tourists
flock to Langkawi, one of the archipelago of 99
islands, that offers natural beauty, picturesque
beaches, flora and fauna, fascinating legends
such as Makam Mahsuri, Dayang Bunting Island,
Tuan Hj. Marzukhi Hj. Othman,
Executive Director of Langkawi Auto
Express Sdn. Bhd.

Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and other attractions

like Langkawi Cable Car, Sky Bridge, Underwater
World, Wildlife Park; as well as duty-free
shopping.

22

Langkawi Auto Express was established on

a pioneer in operating RoPax (Roll On with

11 April

2001, but it officially commenced

Passenger) ferry in Langkawi, Langkawi Auto

operations on 9 December 2014 as a leading

Express early days were focused on establishing

provider of vehicle ferry services between

the Standard Operating Procedures. SME Bank

Kuala Perlis and Langkawi. Langkawi Auto

plays an instrumental role in Langkawi Auto

Express already has a feather in his cap when

Express initial set up by providing funding in

it was chosen as the official carrier for LIMA

2011 under Bai Istisna facility to build a RoPax

2015 vehicles, ferrying 350 Mercedes-Benz to

Catamaran in Batam, Indonesia. RoPax ferry is

Langkawi for the use of senior officials of the

designed for transporting wheeled vehicles and

countries taking part in the event. The Company

passengers.

also ferried vehicles of military troops and

government agencies throughout LIMA 2015.
In the first year of operation, the company had
successfully ferried more than 40,000 vehicles
of various types. The Executive Director of
Langkawi Auto Express Sdn. Bhd., Tuan Hj.
Marzukhi Hj. Othman (Tuan Hj. Marzukhi)
said when the Company started business, its
operations were quite irregular as it had to study
the needs of the market and customers. Being

23

Always look for opportunities

through the Blue Ocean
Strategy. Langkawi Auto
Express is the first company in
Langkawi that initiated vehicle
ferry services in a fast and
comfortable manner. Explore
ideas from other countries and
adapt to our economic and
cultural conditions.
Tuan Hj. Marzukhi Hj. Othman

Today, Langkawi Auto Express operations

run smoothly and the Company takes pride
in the efficiency of its management and crew
in arranging the ferry schedules in order to
avoid the shallow water of Kuala Perlis. The
efficiency of its ticketing and forwarding agents
in handling the Customs declaration forms has
also improved, allowing the ferry to always
sail on time. Its staff efficiency in managing
the boarding of a convoy of vehicles is a
major contributor to the Companys earnings
especially during the holiday periods. Langkawi
Auto Express is currently supported by 53 staff,
comprising onshore staff and ferry crew, who
are provided with opportunities to develop
their talents and interests. Promising employees
are sent for relevant courses to enhance and
upgrade their skills and knowledge to be up-todate with current developments.
Asked on his leadership style, Tuan Hj. Marzukhi
said it is gentle yet firm. According to him, he
always sought his staff and crews views to
find solutions for any problems. Leaders are
constantly being challenged by various obstacles
as well as from their own employees, and a good
leader knows when it is time to be firm and
24

Armed with capable leadership and commitment from the staff

and crew, Langkawi Auto Express is confidently sailing in the
direction of success by offering fast, efficient and comfortable
ferry services between Langkawi and the mainland.
when he needs to be gentle. Being able to find

Like other companies, Langkawi Auto Express

the balance between gentle and firm, a leader

voyage is not without storms and strong waves.

will be more successful in retaining the respect

The Company faces unfair competition from

of employees and being open for conversation.

others. However, Tuan Hj. Marzukhi said, Langkawi

Tuan Hj. Marzukhi said at the same time, he

Auto Express overcomes that challenge by

has to identify high-potential employees to be

groomed to hold bigger responsibility.
On his advice to young entrepreneurs, he said,
Always look for opportunities through the Blue
Ocean Strategy. Langkawi Auto Express is the
first company in Langkawi that initiated vehicle
ferry services in a fast and comfortable manner.
Explore ideas from other countries and adapt to
our economic and cultural conditions. Tuan Hj.
Marzukhi disclosed that the idea of RoPax type
ferry for Langkawi route was taken from the
Mediterranean concept and such a service has
increasingly received favourable response.

25

always looking for solutions to improve the

platforms. So far, most of the advertisements

quality of its service and leave it to customers

are aired through RTM radio stations in the

to choose the best service among competitors.

South and the East Coast, in addition to

Other than that, the management only has to

promotional activities via Facebook.

address isolated issues involving customers

with capable leadership and commitment from

which lead to continual improvements in the

the staff and crew, Langkawi Auto Express is

Companys service.

confidently sailing in the direction of success

Armed

by offering fast, efficient and comfortable ferry

Looking ahead, Langkawi Auto Express is

services between Langkawi and the mainland.

targeting to increase the frequency of its ferry

With its reliable services, good transit time and

services to enhance its revenue. To ensure that

smooth journey, the Company is one of the main

the number of vehicles meet the frequency

contributors to the growth in tourist arrivals in

of ferry services, the Company will embark

Langkawi.

on promotional activities via various media

26

For business. For growth. For life.

KDN No : PP18711/04/2015(034171) - Vol 4