Over 175 business owners, founders, and entrepreneurs from various industries gathered at the Radisson Hotel in the capital on Wednesday for the SME Town Hall Forum, titled “Aiming Higher: How to Navigate a Changing Landscape.” The event, convened by Asia Inc Forum in partnership with Baiduri Bank under the TRANSFORM 2024 programme, emphasised the importance of agility, integrity, and innovation in sustaining business growth.
In his welcoming remarks, Chairman of Asia Inc Forum Dato Timothy Ong, highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern business. “AI, everyone is talking about it. People are getting a lot of money from it.
And some people are saying that it is dangerous. But how does it apply to us?” He expressed optimism for a rich learning experience and encouraged participants to seize the opportunity to learn and network. “
May you learn things that will help you in your business,” he concluded.
Chairman of Baiduri Bank Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Muda Dr Abdul Fattaah, followed with an inspiring opening speech, stressing the need for adaptability in today’s business environment. “You need to be adaptable and agile, and that’s why today is so important,” he said. “This talk is not just about exchanging ideas. It’s about forming connections that will help us go further, learning from experts and those who have been on the ground.” He urged participants to engage freely, share their experiences, and remain open to new ideas. “Together, we can not only navigate this changing landscape, but thrive with it.”
CEO of QAF Brunei Group Albert Lau, provided insight into the diversity and complexity of managing various business sectors. “One minute, I’m talking about chickens, the next minute it’s high-tech BMW cars, and then i get a call from Brunox talking about industrial gases,” Lau explained, underlining the broad scope of business operations. His focus, however, remains on building a resilient business capable of lasting generations.
The forum’s first session, titled “What Every Successful Business Must Practice,” featured Chairman and Managing Director of Ideal Group of Companies Haji Ahmad Morshidi bin POKDGSDDLU Haji Abdul Rahman, and Albert Lau. Both leaders shared their insights on long-term business survival and the leadership qualities essential for maintaining a sustainable pace of growth.
International speakers also contributed, with CEO of Human Inc Malaysia Christoffer Erichsen, leading a session on “Agile Leadership: Navigating the Changing Landscape.” Erichsen discussed the importance of fostering a culture of agility within SMEs to better adapt to the evolving market environment.
Senior VP of PSG Global Solutions, Philippines Monica Maralit, presented on “Gen 2: The Future of the Workforce,” addressing trends in workforce dynamics, while Co-Founder of Humain Labs Malaysia Indhran Indhraseghar, led a session on “AI in Action: Practical Solutions to Elevate SMEs,” focusing on how businesses can leverage AI to enhance their operations.
The forum concluded with a panel discussion titled “The Year Ahead: What to Watch Out For,” offering participants a forward-looking perspective on seizing opportunities and preparing for challenges.
Director of Enterprise Development at the Brunei Economic Development Board Lela Suhaliee, provided closing remarks, reiterating the importance of SMEs in driving economic diversification and innovation in Brunei.
Head of Corporate Banking and Trade Finance at Baiduri Bank Leonard Lee, expressed the bank’s commitment to supporting the growth of local businesses: “SMEs form an integral part of Brunei’s economy. This Town Hall Forum is a platform for local businesses to reach their full potential through shared experiences, networking, and relationship-building.”
The forum is part of the annual TRANSFORM 2024 programme, convened by Asia Inc Forum in partnership with Baiduri Bank as Presenting Sponsor, the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB) as Strategic Partner, and Archipelago Group as Logistics Partner. – FADLEY FAISAL
