Loo praises Lau as “truly outstanding” during his address.
KOTA KINABALU: Malaysia–China Chamber of Commerce (Sabah) President Datuk Dexter Lau stepped out of the boardroom and into the kitchen at the second wave of the Platinum Club Afternoon Tea, offering members not only a unique culinary experience but also a powerful reminder of the chamber’s commitment to fostering closer ties and meaningful connections.
A week prior to the gathering, Datuk Dexter carefully designed the menu and oversaw every stage of preparation. From sourcing ingredients to marinating dishes a day in advance, he personally ensured that the food reflected the same dedication and professionalism he applies to business leadership. His efforts were met with admiration, with members commending both his versatility and attention to detail.
The aroma of freshly cooked dishes filled the venue and created a warm setting where members could exchange business insights and strengthen professional networks. While initially capped at 50 participants, the overwhelming interest prompted the chamber to expand the attendance, ensuring all members had the opportunity to join.
The event drew notable guests, including Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kota Kinabalu, Dr. Zhu Xinglong, along with Deputy Consuls Xue XiaoNing and Ouyang Hui Feng, representatives from the Chinese Consulate-General, Political Secretary from the High Commission of Singapore Bhargav Sriganesh and Nicole Neo, and Kaven Lee representing Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities and Kota Kinabalu MP Datuk Chan Foong Hin. Their presence, alongside Chamber National President Loo Kok Seong and Central Council representatives, underscored the Platinum Club’s growing significance as a networking platform.
Lau, reflecting on his experience, said:
“Whether in the kitchen or in business, true success lies in putting one’s heart into every step. Through this event, I wanted to convey care and enthusiasm to our members while also highlighting the importance of attention to detail—qualities that are essential in both leadership and enterprise growth.”
He emphasised that the Platinum Club Afternoon Tea was not just a social gathering but a strategic platform that inspires collaboration, strengthens mutual understanding, and injects real value into members’ business strategies.
Council Member and Platinum Club Coordinator Benny Hon thanked Lau for setting a personal example, noting that his efforts reinforced the chamber’s culture of dedication and service.
Loo described Lau as “truly outstanding” and urged members to maximise the chamber’s platform to explore opportunities. He expressed confidence that Sabah’s momentum and dynamism would inspire other branches to achieve similar growth.
Meanwhile, Dr. Zhu praised the chamber’s role in enhancing bilateral economic ties, highlighting Sabah’s potential as a partner for China. He encouraged Chinese-Malaysian entrepreneurs to visit China to explore opportunities while also bringing back advanced technologies and practices to support Sabah’s economic development.
The Platinum Club Afternoon Tea continues to serve as a key initiative by the chamber to connect members in a relaxed yet business-focused setting. Through candid exchanges, shared experiences, and new collaborations, the event provided participants with fresh perspectives and inspiration to strengthen their enterprises and competitiveness.
Among the attendees were senior office bearers including Deputy President Kapitan Dr. Callee Tan; Vice Presidents Jacky Chin, Louis Su and Law Jiin Woei; Treasurer Shawn Tan; Director of Public Relations Edmund Goh; Women Entrepreneurs Committee Chairperson Lam Lee Chin and committee members; Council Members; Platinum Club members; and a broad representation of entrepreneurs from Sabah’s business community.
