This article first appeared in City & Country, The Edge Malaysia Weekly on September 16, 2024 - September 22, 2024
Malaysia’s thriving building and construction industry is central to the country’s economic development and plays a pivotal role in nation building. In conjunction with Malaysia Day, we asked some of the country’s top property developers as well as key real estate associations to share their thoughts on what being Malaysian means to them and their organisations as well as their hopes for the country.
Datuk Chang Khim Wah
President and CEO,
Eco World Development Group Bhd
Being Malaysian means embracing a unique blend of cultures and traditions, where our diverse backgrounds come together to create a vibrant society. What truly binds us is our shared love for food and sports — the two universal “languages” that unite us, regardless of race or religion. These passions form the glue that holds our nation together, reflecting the harmony and unity that define what it means to be Malaysian.
In 2015, we proudly launched the #AnakAnakMalaysia movement to celebrate Merdeka and Malaysia Day, which began as a simple gesture — wearing a wristband to show our pride. Today, #AnakAnakMalaysia is more than just a celebration on the calendar for us at EcoWorld. It is a reminder to not only celebrate, but also honour the foundations of our unique and beloved nation. Through #AnakAnakMalaysia, we have not only strengthened the spirit of patriotism and love for our country but also supported local businesses along the way, while maintaining a focus on sustainability.
Our hope for Malaysia is that we continue to prosper together as one nation for generations to come. Let us always take pride in the Jalur Gemilang, our national flag, and keep it flying high to symbolise our unity and shared future.
Chu Wai Lune
CEO, Gamuda Land
(Property division of Gamuda Bhd)
Being Malaysian is about more than just a nationality — it’s a deep sense of belonging to a community that celebrates diversity, kindness and resilience. Growing up in Malaysia, I was surrounded by people from different backgrounds, and that taught me the beauty of embracing different cultures and perspectives. It’s these everyday interactions — from sharing a meal at the mamak restaurant to celebrating each other’s festivals — that have shaped who I am today.
Being Malaysian also means holding onto the values of humility, respect and togetherness that are so deeply woven into our culture. It’s about finding strength in our shared struggles and joy in our shared successes. No matter how far I travel, there’s always a part of me that longs for the warmth and familiarity of Malaysia, a place where I know I will always belong.
As a town maker, Gamuda Land creates places that people are proud to call home, and that they want to be a part of, grow up and grow old in, and where they feel a true sense of belonging. Central to our township designs are green spaces and recreational attractions that serve as community gathering spots. These spaces are actively used to host festive and cultural events, fostering mutual respect and strengthening the bonds between our residents and the larger community. Additionally, our children’s programmes, such as GL Rangers and “Heroes of Tomorrow”, are designed to foster an appreciation for Malaysia’s diverse flora and fauna while nurturing a well-rounded generation from a young age.
Internally, we cultivate a culture of inclusivity by encouraging a diverse workforce. By tapping into a wide talent pool from different backgrounds and expertise, we generate innovative ideas and solutions. This diversity not only strengthens our developments but also ensures we remain competitive in an ever-changing, globalised business environment.
Our hope for Malaysia is that it continues to grow as a nation where innovation meets sustainability, and where every citizen can enjoy a high quality of life. We envision a future where our developments contribute to a greener, more inclusive Malaysia, setting new benchmarks in the property sector. As we move forward, we remain committed to playing our part in building a nation that future generations can be proud of — a Malaysia that is truly home to all.
Colin Ng
Head of group corporate communications, IGB Bhd
and director and chief marketing officer, Tan & Tan Developments Bhd
Malaysia is a country blessed with abundant natural resources, beautiful landscapes and largely free from natural disasters such as earthquakes, volcanoes and hurricanes. The country’s diverse heritage and unique culture is something to be cherished and celebrated. Malaysia’s history is made up of the varied cultures of different people throughout the centuries. The first people to live in the area were indigenous groups that still remain; they were followed by the Malays, who moved there from mainland Asia in ancient times. Chinese and Indian cultural influences made their mark when trade began with those countries and increased with immigration to Malaysia. Other cultures that heavily influenced us include Portuguese, Persian, Arabic and British. The many different ethnicities that currently exist in Malaysia have their own unique and distinctive cultural identities, with some crossover.
As Malaysians, we are formed by this unique melting pot of history, cuisine, culture and influences. This is something unique to us, our identity as Malaysians. It is not something to be feared or frowned upon, but to be celebrated, respected and protected for future generations.
At IGB Bhd, we celebrate diversity and respect for each of our colleagues’ customs, religious beliefs and culture. Various major festivals are celebrated with our colleagues, as a mark of respect for their traditions and cultures. Food is an important aspect. Often at major festivals, each division would celebrate with traditional food from other cultures. This promotes a greater understanding of other cultures.
I hope that Malaysia will continue to grow and prosper economically. More importantly, the intangible and unique culture that is Malaysia needs to be protected and celebrated. We are a nation of diverse people with a rich heritage, but you will find that we have more in common than not.
In other multicultural societies such as Australia, citizens see themselves and identify as “Australians” whereas Malaysia is still divided according to ethnic lines. My hope is that Malaysia will become a nation of “Malaysians”, equal under the law and with a unique shared history that we can all be proud of.
Datuk Chai Kian Soon
Senior general manager,
IJM Land Bhd
Being Malaysian means enjoying a rich blend of cultures, with opportunities to celebrate various festivals and savour diverse cuisines. Our country’s stability provides a strong sense of safety and security, and we benefit from subsidised healthcare along with good private healthcare options. Plus, with visa-free access to 182 countries (Henley Passport Index 2024), travelling is convenient and opens up many global opportunities.
To foster the Malaysian spirit within our organisation and beyond, we’ve undertaken several meaningful initiatives. Within the organisation, we celebrate major festivals, including Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali and Christmas, with regional gatherings that promote unity and diversity among our staff. Our colleagues in Sabah and Sarawak also observe Pesta Kaamatan and Hari Gawai, reflecting the cultural richness of our nation. Additionally, we display the Jalur Gemilang in all our sales galleries, sites and townships for at least a month before and after Hari Merdeka and Malaysia Day, reinforcing our national pride.
Plus, since 2018, we have produced annual Merdeka Day short films and videos to showcase our patriotism on social media. We actively participate in annual parades organised by federal and state authorities and sponsor thousands of Jalur Gemilang flags for government agencies, residents’ associations and business communities. These efforts help spread the spirit of Malaysia and strengthen our national identity.
My hope for Malaysia is a future where unity and harmony flourish among our diverse communities, with mutual respect and celebration of differences at the heart of our society. I envision a strong economy that nurtures talent, provides abundant job opportunities and stands resilient against global challenges. I also dream of a Malaysia where social welfare systems uplift everyone, ensuring equal access to opportunities and a better quality of life for all.
Chris Chong
Chief operating officer
— property investment (Malaysia), IOI Properties Group Bhd
Malaysians are a unique lot. We are diverse in terms of colour, culture and values, yet we are united as we respect each other’s differences and religion. These core values are enshrined in the Rukun Negara and being Malaysian citizens, that pledge holds the utmost significance and evokes a sense of patriotism and pride in us.
The times I was away from home, particularly during the few years of tertiary education abroad, taught me the significance of my passport and the pride of being a citizen of Malaysia.
To inculcate the Malaysian spirit within the organisation — and being in the IOI Malls division, which is part of the property investment segment of IOI Properties Group — the month of Merdeka and Malaysia Day celebrations is a significant event in our calendar, and a series of events and promotions have been lined up at our three malls, namely IOI City Mall in Putrajaya, IOI Mall Puchong and IOI Mall Kulai.
Our experiential videos, which we started last year, have achieved much success and garnered traction on our social media channels. The Rukun Negara pledge in the lifts and the Negaraku played in the mall are reminders that we are Malaysians and we are proud of it.
There has been a lot of noise about the DEI (diversity, equality, inclusivity) movement in the western world. I believe Malaysia has been advocating diversity, equality and inclusivity since the country’s independence in 1957, and this was further strengthened when we established Malaysia, together with Sabah and Sarawak, in 1963.
What is unique about Malaysia is that we accept who we are, and are evolving to become a civilised society living harmoniously with understanding and respect for each of our differences. My hope for Malaysia is that it will continue to hold this dear in her heart.
Tan Sri Leong Hoy Kum
Founder and group managing director,
Mah Sing Group Bhd
Being Malaysian means being part of a rich and diverse tapestry of cultures, traditions and values. It’s about embracing the spirit of unity, regardless of our backgrounds, and celebrating the uniqueness that each community brings to the nation. The sense of togetherness and shared identity, despite our differences, is what truly defines us as Malaysians. It’s a pride in our collective history, a commitment to our shared future and a responsibility to contribute to the betterment of our society.
Mah Sing is a multiracial company, where its workforce is made up of an ethnically and demographically diverse group of individuals. We celebrate cultural festivals of all communities, encourage open dialogue and promote mutual respect among our employees.
Externally, our commitment to the Malaysian spirit is demonstrated through our focus on building affordable and quality homes. At Mah Sing, we don’t just build buildings, we build communities where people can experience social mobility, improved career prospects, access to schools and proper healthcare, and many other benefits that contribute to their overall well-being as the future leaders of our nation.
We also actively engage with local communities through our corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, focusing on creating environments where residents can thrive and foster a strong sense of belonging. We believe that by creating these opportunities, we are helping to build a more inclusive and prosperous Malaysia.
My hope for Malaysia is to continue evolving as a leader in sustainable and inclusive development. In the property sector, this means investing in projects that are environmentally responsible, economically viable and socially inclusive.
I envision a Malaysia where smart cities, green technologies and affordable housing solutions thrive, contributing to a higher quality of life for all Malaysians. Together, we can build a future where our country remains resilient, prosperous and a model of progress in the region.
Ho Kong Soon
Group managing director,
Matrix Concepts Holdings Bhd
Being Malaysian is about more than just nationality, it’s about embracing the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions and values that define our nation.
At Matrix Concepts, being Malaysian means creating environments that embody the spirit of unity and diversity. We strive to build not just physical spaces, but also communities where people from all walks of life can coexist, support one another and thrive together. This commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness is at the heart of our work.
Within the company, we actively cultivate an inclusive workplace that mirrors Malaysia’s multicultural society. Our corporate culture is built on the principles of unity, respect and collaboration, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered.
Externally, we are deeply involved in community development initiatives that celebrate and preserve Malaysia’s heritage. Through our efforts in property development, education, hospitality and healthcare, we aim to create environments that resonate with the essence of being Malaysian and spaces where diverse communities can come together to learn, grow and succeed.
As we look to the future, our hope for Malaysia is to continue on a path of progress, innovation and unity. We aspire to see our nation thrive, not only in terms of economic growth but also in social and cultural harmony. At Matrix Concepts, we are committed to contributing to a Malaysia where every individual has the opportunity to succeed and where our shared values of diversity, tolerance and inclusiveness remain strong.
Oliver HC Wee
President,
Master Builders Association Malaysia (MBAM)
Just as the Malaysian construction industry has evolved over time with various national landmarks emerging as symbols of our modern development and economic growth, our pride as Malaysians has been stronger than ever.
During the century of nation building, we have also seen the lives of Malaysians enriched and businesses connected.
As the sole unifying voice that represents Malaysia’s construction industry, MBAM serves as a cohesive umbrella organisation that provides services to its members while protecting their interests.
MBAM is a place for members to build fraternal friendships as we embrace a shared identity that celebrates diversity while fostering unity. One of our aims is to preserve harmony in the industry by closing the gap between members.
It is also our desire to see the industry benefit from better competitive advantages, improved project performance and risk reduction through digital advancement, which is integral to the country’s progress and development.
We will continue to build for the people of today and tomorrow.
Tan Kian Aun
President,
Malaysian Institute of Estate Agents (MIEA)
Being Malaysian is to be a citizen in a united, industrious and progressive country that is multiracial, multilingual and multicultural, with fellow citizens who are of diverse ethnicities, religions and languages, who live, work, play and eat together harmoniously and peacefully. To know Malaysia is to love Malaysia.
MIEA is the largest and oldest association for real estate agents in Malaysia. It was the first association to welcome real estate practitioners of all races and ages as members. MIEA has a theme that resonates with the Malaysian spirit — “United, Relevant, Progressive”. “United” means standing together and having one voice, which can only be achieved through harmonious relationships between our members. By staying “Relevant”, we can meet members’ expectations, which can only be attained by being a source and provider of current knowledge and information about the real estate industry and market. Lastly, being “Progressive” leads to growth in our members and the betterment of their businesses, professions and lives, resulting in individual and collective success, recognition and respect.
I hope that Malaysia will preserve its autonomy as a sovereign nation; remain harmonious; have peaceful relations with its neighbours; maintain an elected government that is fair to all races, non-prejudicial towards all religions and free of corruption; and be a progressive country with growing prosperity.
Adrianta Aziz
President,
Malaysian Institute of Architects (PAM)
Being Malaysian is a privilege and a responsibility. It represents a blend of diverse cultures, traditions and perspectives that form a unique identity. For us, as architects, this diversity enriches our design philosophies, allowing us to create spaces that resonate with the varied needs of our multicultural society. The significance of being Malaysian also lies in our shared commitment to progress while respecting our heritage. This identity drives us to develop architecture that embodies both modern innovation and deep-rooted values.
At PAM, we place great emphasis on promoting unity, cultural appreciation and national pride. Internally, we actively celebrate Malaysian festivals, conduct workshops that focus on vernacular architecture and encourage designs that incorporate local materials and craftsmanship.
Externally, we engage in community projects that highlight our architectural heritage, and we collaborate with government bodies on initiatives that emphasise sustainable development aligned with Malaysia’s unique environmental and cultural context. We also support young architects and students through competitions and scholarships that encourage them to incorporate Malaysian identity into their designs.
Our hope for Malaysia is that it continues to thrive as a harmonious, progressive and inclusive nation. As architects, we envision a future where our built environment not only meets global standards but also reflects the beauty and resilience of our Malaysian identity. We aspire to see a country that embraces sustainable growth while preserving our rich heritage. Through our work, we aim to contribute to a Malaysia where tradition and innovation coexist, creating spaces that inspire and connect people for generations to come.
Datuk Ho Hon Sang
President, Real Estate and Housing Developers’
Association (Rehda) Malaysia
Being Malaysian means being part of a democratic, law-abiding society that is peaceful, with freedom of religion and multiracial diversity unlike any other. From a corporate perspective, it is a country that is very welcoming of businesses and investments, with an increasing number of government initiatives that promote the ease of doing business.
The initiatives we have undertaken to inculcate the Malaysian spirit in our organisation are many. Rehda comprises members of various races, ranging from small developers and medium enterprises to government-linked companies, all playing their roles to help propel the Malaysian property industry to new heights.
We also advocate gender equality [and encouraged] more women to be part of the national council and state chairpersons in the recent elections at both branch and national levels, though more can be done on that front. At the same time, we continuously advocate for and strictly uphold our 4Rs — to be a responsive, respected, responsible and relevant NGO.
For the rakyat, we have championed various initiatives to benefit Malaysian homebuyers, such as the reintroduction of the Home Ownership Campaign, which has helped spur the property industry and helped more Malaysians buy homes.
Over the past 40 years, Rehda has embraced [the essence of] the Madani concept introduced [more recently] by our prime minister by providing affordable housing to Malaysians. As the voice for property developers, Rehda is the bridge between developers and the government, with constant engagement and dialogue to improve the building industry.
My hope for the country is that more Malaysians will adopt the concept “unity in diversity”, where we recognise and celebrate the differences that make us uniquely Malaysian, and thus stand stronger together as one. I hope that the landscape of the industry will continue to improve so developers can continue to fulfil our nation-building responsibility to develop quality and affordable homes in a timely and sustainable manner.
Datuk Seri Azmir Merican
Group managing director,
Sime Darby Property Bhd
We are privileged to inherit Malaysia’s rich tapestry of cultures, languages and traditions, crafting a vibrant nation that thrives on diversity. This shared heritage fosters a profound pride in our country, uniting us in our pursuit of a brighter future. It is this collective spirit that propels us forward as a nation.
As an organisation, we uphold our purpose to be a value multiplier for people, businesses, economies and the planet. This commitment permeates our strategies and everyday actions, ensuring we contribute positively to Malaysia’s fabric. Whether it is through our sustainable townships or vibrant community programmes, we strive to foster an environment where harmony between people and also nature reflects the true Malaysian spirit.
Our aspiration for Malaysia is a future where unity and strength prevail, guiding us to new heights of prosperity and success. We look towards a horizon filled with opportunities for all Malaysians.
Sarena Cheah
Group managing director,
Sunway Property and executive director, Sunway Bhd
Being Malaysian means embracing our rich diversity — a unique blend of ethnicities, languages and traditions that coexist harmoniously. This diversity strengthens our nation by enhancing social cohesion, economic resilience and global competitiveness.
Our diversity attracts international business and tourism, as well as fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, which empower Malaysians to thrive in a globalised world.
Sunway Property, as a master community developer, reflects this diversity in every community we build, creating environments that nurture belonging and deliver social, economic and environmental benefits for all Malaysians.
At Sunway Bhd, we believe in doing well by doing good, a principle rooted in the vision of our founder, Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah. We see ourselves as a team of 15,000 Malaysians serving other Malaysians as the community developer we are.
Sunway Bhd’s #SunwayforGood initiatives aim to uplift B40 communities and those in need through healthcare, education and community enrichment, impacting nearly one million beneficiaries. The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, our philanthropic arm, has awarded over RM745 million in scholarships, enabling young Malaysians to pursue their educational aspirations.
Sunway Bhd also established 42 Malaysia, a tuition-free coding school with campuses in Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, Sunway City Iskandar Puteri and Penang. Since 2020, 42 KL has produced over 1,200 coders, 40% from B40 backgrounds. Similarly, data centre developments in Sunway City Iskandar Puteri further support the nation’s digital economy.
Additionally, the world-class performing arts centre at the RM1.8 billion Sunway Square in Sunway South Quay will be a space for all Malaysians to celebrate the arts and strengthen unity.
My hope for Malaysia is to reclaim its Asian Tiger status and be an inclusive nation with sustainable growth and prosperity for all. I envision a nation where every citizen enjoys a higher standard of living, with enhanced access to quality education and healthcare, positioning Malaysia as a competitive force on the global stage.
Emily Teh Hooi Chuan
Chief marketing officer,
UEM Sunrise Bhd
As a property developer, the significance of being Malaysian lies in contributing to the country’s growth and economy while espousing values that matter, like commitment to diversity, unity and resilience.
Our projects at UEM Sunrise especially reflect Malaysia’s rich and harmonious cultural tapestry, with internal designs prioritising the Malaysian way of life and common spaces encouraging community inclusiveness.
Striking the balance between progressive development concepts and sustainable practices, UEM Sunrise strives to meet the aspirations of Malaysians, from crafting the right home for our customers to the ideal role for its employees. We embrace our colourful and diverse society by celebrating cultural and festive occasions not only company-wide but also with our customers.
Our CSR initiatives inculcate the Malaysian spirit by encouraging social unity and heritage preservation. Additionally, through fun activities at our Sireh Park in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, we cultivate appreciation for Malaysia’s rich natural resources.
Looking forward, our hope for the country is one of continued progress, harmony and sustainability. We envision a country and “home”, where the modern development fabric meshes naturally with the preservation of the unique Malaysian way of life and heritage.
As a leading property developer, UEM Sunrise is committed to this vision by implementing sustainable practices in the development of projects that improve residents’ quality of life, while fortifying their sense of belonging. In doing so, we aim to play a meaningful role in shaping a prosperous and united future, with one national identity for the country.
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