Notable Roles | - Chairman, Royal Selangor International Sdn Bhd |
Key Recognition | - Co-Chair, PEMUDAH (Special Task Force to Facilitate Business) (2007–2013) |
Background and Early Foundations
Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon was born in 1945 in Malaysia. He pursued his higher education at the University of Adelaide, Australia, graduating in 1968 with First Class Honours in Mechanical Engineering. During his time at the university, he conducted experiments on pewter alloys, which later contributed to innovations in Royal Selangor’s manufacturing processes.
Career Milestones and Impact
Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
1968 | Joined Royal Selangor, initiating modernization and international expansion. |
1984 | Founded the Malaysian Mensa Society, promoting high IQ networking and initiatives. |
2007 | Appointed Co-Chair of PEMUDAH, enhancing Malaysia's business environment. |
2013 | Concluded tenure at PEMUDAH, leaving a legacy of streamlined business processes. |
2024 | Appointed Independent Non-Executive Director at Telekom Malaysia Berhad. |
- Royal Selangor’s Global Presence: Over 40 retail outlets worldwide
- Product Range: More than 1,000 tableware and gift items
- Export Markets: Products available in over 20 countries
- Collaborations: Partnerships with British Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, and designers like Erik Magnussen
Leadership Style and Influence
Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon is known for his visionary leadership, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern business strategies. At Royal Selangor, he emphasized innovation, quality, and global branding, transforming the company into the world’s largest pewter manufacturer. His tenure at PEMUDAH showcased his commitment to public-private collaboration, aiming to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and foster a conducive business environment in Malaysia.
Legacy and Future Focus
Tan Sri Yong’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the evolution of Royal Selangor and Malaysia’s industrial landscape. His efforts in modernizing a family business and promoting national economic reforms have set benchmarks for future entrepreneurs and policymakers. Currently, he continues to mentor the next generation, ensuring the sustainability and growth of the enterprises and institutions he has nurtured over the decades.
