Fortune Honours Malina Ngai as One of Asia's Most Powerful Women: The Science Behind AS Watson's 185-Year Legacy
Dr. Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson, has been named one of Fortune's Most Powerful Women in Asia 2025, ranking 6th on the list and standing out as the only retail leader among the top 10. The recognition was announced online earlier this month, and the award was formally presented to Ngai at the Fortune Innovation Forum gala dinner held in Kuala Lumpur last night.
Speaking at the forum gala dinner, she talked about ‘The Science Behind a 185-Year Company’ sharing insights on leading a vast retail network amid evolving market dynamics. AS Watson, the world's largest international health and beauty retailer, operates over 17,000 stores across 31 markets. With over 750 stores nationwide, Watsons Malaysia continues to redefine the health and beauty retail experience, serving millions of customers every month through its extensive store network and online platforms. This year also marks a milestone celebration, the 15th anniversary of the Watsons Club loyalty programme, which now proudly serves over 8 million members, reinforcing Watsons Malaysia’s position as one of the most loved and trusted retail brands in the country.
“Leading a company with 185 years of history is both an honour and a challenge,” Ngai stated. "Heritage gives us credibility, but relevance keeps us alive. Tradition gives us roots, but innovation gives us wings." She emphasised the importance of deep listening to customers, colleagues, and partners, and making decisions with both head and heart.
Ngai highlighted the company's focus on talent and agility, stating, "Culture is the bridge between past and future. We invest in talent and agility so our teams can adapt quickly without losing our DNA." Drawing on her background as a competitive athlete, "What sports have taught me is a kind of true resilience that no business school can teach. As a competitive athlete, you train for months for just a few minutes of performance. That focus, anticipation, perseverance, and the spirit of never easily giving up - that's the essence of resilience."
Ngai also shared how sports have shaped her leadership style, emphasising focus under pressure, rapid decision-making, and the importance of teamwork and trust. She underscored AS Watson's commitment to blending "art and science" into retail, using data and AI to personalise offers while maintaining a human connection with customers. "We are a technology-powered company with a human soul," she said.
As AS Watson approaches its 185th anniversary, the company continues to innovate and adapt to meet the evolving needs of its customers, blending its rich heritage with a forward-looking approach.
To learn more about the award, visit: Most Powerful Women Asia | Fortune
To discover more about AS Watson’s history and talent development, visit:
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WM SENIBONG RAISES RM100,000 IN SUPPORT OF PEOPLE WITH AUTISM IN JOHOR BAHRU
A wave of hope and community spirit swept through Johor Bahru as WM Senibong successfully raised RM100,000 through its Walk for Hope Charity Walkathon, held in support of individuals with autism. The event brought together families, friends, and supporters to spread awareness and celebrate the unique abilities of those on the autism spectrum.
Over 1,000 participants gathered at Emerald 3, Crest@Austin early in the morning, united by a shared purpose, to walk for understanding and inclusion. Among those who joined were children from Hope Garden, along with special guests YB Jimmy Puah Wee Tse, Member of Parliament for Tebrau, and YB Puan Amira Aisya binti Abdul Aziz, ADUN Puteri Wangsa, who graciously lent their support to the cause.
The morning was filled with vibrant activities - from stage performances and fun games to delicious food truck treats and health screenings. The highlight of the day was a heartfelt cheque presentation ceremony, where WM Senibong contributed RM100,000 to Hope Garden, helping to boost public awareness and enabling the foundation to continue its efforts in providing education and effective care for people, particularly children with autism.
“We believe everyone deserves the chance to shine in their own way,” said CK Quay, Chief Executive Officer of WM Senibong. “Through this initiative, we hope to bring people together, raise awareness, and foster a more inclusive society where every individual is valued and included.”
The initiative shines a light on the growing need for better support systems for individuals with autism. As of December 31, 2024, the Welfare Department recorded 58,708 registered children with autism nationwide — with Johor ranking second-highest at 6,879 cases, following Selangor with 12,905.
Through Walk for Hope, WM Senibong hopes to continue building awareness and empathy within the community - one that not only understands, but celebrates the differences that make every individual special.
More CSR Initiatives
With every project, WM Senibong strives to create long-term value that extends beyond building beautiful homes, aiming instead to foster thriving environments and empowered communities.
At Senibong Cove, for instance, 20% of the land is dedicated to greenery, complemented by rainwater harvesting systems. The township’s master plan also preserves a four-acre mangrove swamp along Sungai Lunchoo, ensuring the protection of local biodiversity.
In collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), WM Senibong recently organised a hands-on workshop on Green Waste Vinegar (GWV) - a sustainable initiative that repurposes food waste for lake and pond restoration.
Other efforts include meaningful engagement with Orang Asli communities, promoting environmental stewardship while providing employment opportunities in construction and township development.
For more information about WM Senibong and its CSR and sustainability initiatives, visit www.crestataustin.com.my
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Colorectal Cancer Tops Male Cancer Cases in Malaysia, Hitting Younger Adults
A trace of blood in the stool, a mild stomach ache, and a persistent urge to pass motion. Most Malaysians would dismiss these as haemorrhoids or a simple stomach upset
But these seemingly harmless symptoms are often the first warnings of colorectal cancer, Malaysia’s most common cancer among men and the second most common among women, warned Dr. Jothinathan Muniandy, a consultant general and colorectal surgeon at Oriental Melaka Straits Medical Centre.
According to the Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017–2021, about 70 percent of colorectal cancer cases are only diagnosed when the disease has already reached stage three or four. “By then, treatment becomes tougher and survival drops sharply. This is a disease that can be prevented or cured if caught early,” stressed Dr. Jothinathan.
The data paint a worrying picture. Colorectal cancer now makes up nearly 10 percent of all cancer cases worldwide, and in Malaysia, its incidence is highest among the Chinese population, followed by Malays and Indians. Traditionally seen in older adults, cases are now increasingly appearing among younger Malaysians in their 20s to 50s, a trend that the expert describes as “deeply concerning and a sign of lifestyle and dietary shifts.”
Screening, he said, is the single most powerful tool in changing these outcomes. The immunochemical Faecal Occult Blood Test (iFOBT) and M2-PK stool tests are simple, affordable, and available at most clinics.
“These non-invasive tests can detect hidden blood or enzyme markers long before symptoms arise. For those who test positive, a colonoscopy, the gold standard, allows doctors to both diagnose and remove any suspicious growths during the same session.”
While screening for average risk individuals is recommended from age 50, both the Ministry of Health Malaysia and the American Cancer Society have revised guidelines suggesting it begin as early as 45 years old, particularly due to rising cases in younger age groups. For those with family history, Dr Jothinathan advises starting at 40 years old, or ten years before the age their relative was diagnosed.
Despite widespread availability, uptake remains low, below 20 percent among eligible adults. Many Malaysians still avoid screening due to fear, stigma, or embarrassment. “People worry it will be painful, or they simply don’t want to talk about that part of their body. But the truth is, most of these tests are quick, painless, and can save your life,” he added.
According to the National Strategic Plan for Colorectal Cancer (2021–2025), early detection dramatically improves survival; about 75.8 percent of patients diagnosed at stage one live beyond five years, compared to just 17.3 percent for those at stage four. Yet, awareness remains the biggest barrier.
Government clinics and NGOs such as the National Cancer Society Malaysia and Colorectal Cancer Survivorship Society Malaysia (CORUM) currently offer free screening, but participation is voluntary. Dr. Jothinathan believes that integrating routine screening reminders into national health systems, similar to programmes in Japan, Singapore, and the UK would significantly boost early detection rates.
Beyond cancer prevention, he stressed that colon health is central to overall well-being. A balanced diet high in fibre, fruits, and whole grains, along with regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management, all contribute to a healthy gut and body.
“Your gut affects everything from your digestion to your mood and energy levels. A healthy colon truly reflects a healthy life,” the expert explained.
He also urged general practitioners to normalise conversations about bowel health as primary care doctors are the first line of defence.
The message is simple but urgent: listen to your body, get screened early, and don’t wait for symptoms. Colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and curable, but only if caught in time.
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TDA Hands Over 64 ICP Projects Under Prasarana’s RM11.37 bil LRT3 Procurement
Technology Depository Agency Berhad (TDA) has officially handed over 64 completed Light Rail Transit Line 3 (LRT3) Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) projects worth RM11.37 billion to Prasarana Malaysia Berhad.
TDA, an agency under the Ministry of Finance, oversees and manages the implementation of ICP in government procurement.
The LRT3 project, awarded to Setia Utama LRT3 Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad, required the company to implement 64 key ICP initiatives alongside the railway construction from 2019 to November 2025.
The projects were delivered across five key sectors in line with Malaysia’s economic priorities; services, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and green mobility.
Covering Chief Executive Officer of TDA Mohammad Rafidi Mat Dahan said this marks the successful completion of one of Malaysia’s largest ICP initiatives.
“It demonstrates how strategic government-linked projects can drive technology transfer, enhance local capabilities, and support sustainable economic growth. This achievement has enhanced skills, strengthened industries, and created long-term national value.”
“It sets a new benchmark for future government-linked projects,” he added.
The handover ceremony at Transport Expo Asia (TXA) 2025, held during the three-day event from 11–13 Nov 2025, was officiated by YBhg Datuk Hajah Norison Ramli, Under Secretary, Government Procurement Division.
Of these, 47 projects enhanced Prasarana’s operational efficiency, digital systems, and workforce capabilities, while 17 community and industry focused initiatives empowered SMEs, universities, and local vendors through technology adoption and sustainability programmes.
Building on these achievements, TDA has played a pivotal role in linking government, industry, and academia to ensure each ICP project delivers tangible outcomes in technology localisation, skills development, and market access, Mohammad Rafidi said.
The LRT3 ICP Programme reinforces Malaysia’s position as a leader in strategic industrial collaboration, providing a sustainable model for innovation, localisation, and national economic growth.
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