KUALA LUMPUR: The Asia Excellence Entrepreneur Federation (AEEF) and HWT Group Berhad recently hosted the Asian Leaders Gala in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together 500 distinguished guests from 10 countries to celebrate 80 outstanding entrepreneurs.
As a platform to unite and empower Asian entrepreneurs in shaping a brighter future, the event highlighted excellence, leadership, and innovation across the region.
Prof. Dr. Robin Tan, president of AEEF, emphasised the evolving significance of leadership in his keynote speech.
He said that as the business world continues to evolve and entrepreneurs grow in maturity, the term "leader" holds even greater significance.
"Leaders are not necessarily entrepreneurs, but they are individuals who strive to make the world a better place in their respective fields. That's why we named this event the 'Asian Leaders Gala,' combining the influence of our four prestigious awards to showcase Asia's excellence to the world."
He also noted the event's role in showcasing Malaysia's rich heritage to international guests.
Guest of Honour Tunku Datuk Mohamed Alauddin Tunku Naquiyuddin, a member of Negeri Sembilan royalty, commended AEEF for its initiative.
He encouraged award recipients to uphold the honour of their awards, take on social responsibilities, and lead their industries to new heights.
Tengku A'liaa Muna Tengku Abdul Rahman, the award presenter for the Golden Phoenix Award, shared her pride in seeing the success of women being recognised on such a platform.
She encouraged female winners to continue inspiring and empowering the women around them, ensuring that Asian women's achievements gain the global attention they deserve.
Awards presented at the gala included the International Prestige Brand Award, the Golden Phoenix Award, the Asia Honesty Award, and the Malaysia Top Entrepreneur Award.
Notable attendees included Raja Ikram Raja Omar, Perak Royalty; Tengku Hazlan Tengku Long Hannif, Kelantan Royalty; Tengku Puteri Eebtysham, Kelantan Royalty; Dr. Jodness, chief executive officer of HWT Group; Dr. Janet Lo, founder of Livingsciences Sdn Bhd; Dixon Lai, co-founder and director of Metaventure Holdings Sdn Bhd; and Jack Tai Chin, who was representing Bandar Tun Razak MP, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.