Kuala lumpur: Datuk Dr Andrew Lim Tatt Keong, a distinguished figure in the Malaysian retail industry, believes Malaysia’s continued progress depends on its people’s confidence, optimism, and willingness to take responsibility for the nation’s growth. Reflecting on his own experiences, he said despite flaws, Malaysia’s system still provides real opportunities for upward mobility, as seen in local business success stories.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lim, 69, who is Malaysia Retailers Association president, said whilst growing up in Penang in the 1960s, he observed how confident Malaysians were then. “We were so confident. Malaysia was always the best. At that point in time, there was no question that Malaysia was one of the better-developed countries in the Commonwealth,” he said in an interview recently.
Lim noted that Malaysians are now “bombarded” with negative narratives that have, to a certain extent, affected their psyche. “It’s like we are suffering from an inferiority complex. We’re not as good as others. But this isn’t true, so such negative narratives have to change,” he added.
Lim, who describes himself as a chai tiam owner, a Hokkien term used in Penang for grocers, is no stranger to local retail industry players, having acquired Gama Supermarket in Penang and Sogo Department Store in Kuala Lumpur in the early 2000s. A lawyer by profession, he has steadily built up concerns in the local retail sector through the years, including acquiring popular brands such as Cold Storage, Mercato, and Giant.
When Lim was a student in the United Kingdom doing law, he noticed a “glass ceiling” for foreigners like him, which would have been difficult to break through if he had chosen to stay there. However, upon returning to Malaysia, he experienced total acceptance and opportunities to thrive. Lim credits his success to Malaysia’s system, which he believes allows individuals to prosper and succeed.
Lim cited the example of a neighboring country where the food and grocery retail industry is dominated by a cooperative, making it difficult for small grocery owners to compete. In contrast, Malaysia offers better upward mobility and opportunities to grow, exemplified by the success of companies like 99 Speedmart.
Commenting on the negative narratives about Malaysia, Lim said foreigners often tell him good things about the country. He stressed that Malaysians seem to be manipulated by social media, which plays up issues aimed at inflaming the public. Lim emphasized that Malaysia’s GDP and exports are growing, and the government is working to develop the nation further.
Drawing on a famous quote by former US President John F. Kennedy, Lim urged Malaysians to contribute to their country’s progress rather than relying solely on the country to provide for them. He believes that Malaysians need to shift their perspective from entitlement to accountability for the country’s progress.
Lim also commented on racial politics in Malaysia, noting that it is driven by personal agendas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, racial politics took a back seat, and the “white flag” movement showed Malaysians helping each other regardless of race or religion. Sogo and Gama supermarkets played a part by sending food to those in need.
Lim firmly believes that Malaysia can continue to grow if its people believe in themselves and assume responsibility for making the country great. “The narrative must change. Please step up, don’t depend on others, every Malaysian must be their own great leader,” he added.