By KONG JENG LI
LABUAN: SME Association of Malaysia, in collaboration with SME Association of Labuan, successfully hosted the Platinum Business Awards (PBA) 2026 Promotional and Networking Dinner yesterday, bringing together nearly 30 business leaders, entrepreneurs and representatives from business organisations for an evening of networking, collaboration and business engagement.
Organised as part of the Association’s nationwide promotion of the Platinum Business Awards 2026, the dinner provided a valuable platform for the Labuan business community to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, exchange ideas and gain greater insights into Malaysia’s premier business awards programme.
Welcoming the guests, Jefery Tan, President of SME Association of Labuan, expressed his appreciation to SME Association of Malaysia for bringing the networking session to Labuan. He said closer collaboration between business associations is essential in strengthening the local SME ecosystem, encouraging knowledge sharing and creating new business opportunities for entrepreneurs in Labuan.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Chin Chee Seong, National President of SME Association of Malaysia, reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to supporting SMEs throughout Malaysia by creating platforms for networking, business development and industry collaboration.
He encouraged Labuan entrepreneurs to participate in the Platinum Business Awards 2026, describing the awards as more than a recognition programme, but a platform that celebrates outstanding enterprises while inspiring continuous business excellence, innovation and sustainable growth.
The evening also featured a special presentation by Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang, Organising Chairman of the Platinum Business Awards 2026, who shared the vision and direction of this year’s awards. He introduced the 2026 theme, “Governance, Digitalisation and Intelligence,” highlighting the importance of strong corporate governance, digital transformation and intelligent business practices in today’s evolving business landscape.
Richard also explained how the Platinum Business Awards provides participating companies with valuable branding opportunities and national recognition, enabling outstanding businesses to enhance their corporate reputation, strengthen market credibility and position themselves for greater regional and international growth.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Datuk Dahlif Singh, President of the Labuan Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Tan Boon Chang, Council Member of the Labuan Chinese Chamber of Commerce; and Ts. Norshafika Azlin binti Mohd Hasli, Assistant Director of Labuan Corporation.
Also present were Sam Tsen Mun Ket, National Vice President of SME Association of Malaysia; Dennix Yeow Wah Fuong, National Secretary General; Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang, Organising Chairman of the Platinum Business Awards 2026; and Desmond Anil, National Council Member.
The dinner concluded with an engaging networking session, allowing participants to exchange business insights, establish new connections and explore potential collaborations. The event further strengthened SME Association of Malaysia’s engagement with the Labuan business community while encouraging more local enterprises to participate in the Platinum Business Awards 2026.
Dr. Chin Chee Seong, Sam Tsen Mun Ket, Jefery Tan, and distinguished guests pose for a group photograph.
