Kuala lumpur: The inaugural Nanyang Emerging Icon Awards 2025 today recognised 52 outstanding entrepreneurs for their significant contributions to the country's economic and social development.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the awards, themed 'Mencipta Kecemerlangan, Menerajui Masa Depan' (Creating Excellence, Leading the Future), aim to honour exceptional achievements in business leadership, innovation and digital advancement, corporate social responsibility (CSR), as well as brand excellence and strength.
Founder and chairman of Nanyang Icon Holdings, Datuk Calvin Khiu, stated that the awards serve as a platform to recognise emerging talents and aspiring entrepreneurs who dare to innovate and build sustainable businesses. Khiu expressed hope that the awards will act as a catalyst for more local entrepreneurs to step forward, build confidence, and expand their potential at both national and international levels.
The event also saw the presence of ASEAN Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ASEAN-CCI) president Datuk Dr Sohaimi Shahadan and Negeri Sembilan Local Government Development, Housing and Transport Committee chairman J. Arul Kumar.
Khiu mentioned that the inaugural edition of the awards drew strong competition, with 142 nominations received, out of which only 52 individuals were chosen to represent their respective companies. He highlighted the intense competition and the quality and strong potential of local entrepreneurs.
The evaluation criteria included financial performance, such as three-year audited reports, growth, and profitability, excluding companies with consistently declining performance. The ceremony, organised by Nanyang Icon Holdings in collaboration with Nanyang Siang Pau as the official media partner, aimed to provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs and companies to gain recognition at both the national and international levels.
The awards are divided into three main categories: individual, corporate social responsibility (CSR) and brand innovation, as well as the top category. Public Bank Berhad was named recipient of the Nanyang Legacy CSR Icon Honour. The Personal Achievement - Outstanding Business Leader (Government Sector) award went to Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) director-general Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman.
Additionally, the Nanyang Personal Excellence Award was presented to 10 entrepreneurs, including representatives from Exgreat MSE Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd and Nik Electronic Sdn Bhd. The Nanyang Culture Icon category was won by Yap Ying Jun of Resonant Music Academy, while the Nanyang Innovation Icon Award went to Loh Zheng Tao of Bucket List and Vacations Sdn Bhd.