Nokan Konan, CFA’s Post

Building in Indonesia has been quite the positive experience. As a husband wife team, we’ve really had to remind ourselves the fundamental elements of team work, organisation , individual strengths and weaknesses, completing homework, building and maintaining relationships and respecting new cultures and practices. It’s yet again a steep curve but we intentionally signed up for growth beyond our local shores. After building Singapore’s first electric kart track in 2015, which had various stress points and building with a very small team, and dealing with government licenses, conflicting ministry regulations and audits, and people management (probably the hardest out the lot). Growth for us is making calculated risks ( well, the ones we know about 🤪) constant schooling in people management, knowing when to cut ties with organisations/ people that have no value and making not just the right decisions but the decisions for when we made the wrong one . ✌🏽

Last week, our Partner, Christine Lay, had the privilege of speaking at a virtual event hosted by IWIRC Malaysia and IWIRC Singapore on the topic of "Playing the Long Game: Sustainable Careers in Restructuring." Christine, alongside other industry leaders, discussed the pivotal role of mentorship and sponsorship in shaping enduring careers. The speakers shared that true career sustainability goes beyond professional milestones—it lies in creating environments that support professionals in bringing their full potential to their work. By respecting the whole person, including their personal commitments, passions, and broader life goals, we enable individuals to thrive without compromising their well-being or burning out. At Abang & Co, we are committed to cultivating such an environment—one where talent is recognised, nurtured, and given the space to flourish. We believe that empowering our team to bring fresh, strategic perspectives to the table is essential to building independent practitioners who will shape the future of the legal profession.

Finally Malaysia has set the guidelines for the Single Family Office in Forest City. Is a great move to accelerate the needs of the Ultra high networth and accelerate the growth of Malaysia’s economy 👍👍👍 #familyoffice #wealthplanning

Under the Sun: Our Passion for Progress Picture this: our team, standing under the scorching sun in Negeri Sembilan, deep in discussion about our next big industrial venture. This wasn’t just another meeting; it was a clear sign of how committed we are to what we do. Despite the heat, we were all in—focused, driven, and determined. It really showed what we’re made of: a team that’s resilient and passionate, no matter the conditions. The developer’s smile said it all, and her words, "The company brand that you carry is the advantage of promoting our project among the clients," were a testament to the trust and respect we’ve earned. As we stood there, sweating but undeterred, we couldn't help but think about the bigger picture. Our work isn’t just about projects; it’s about growth, opportunities, and making a real impact on the economy. Our venture in Negeri Sembilan is a step towards a brighter future. This meeting under the sun captured what we’re all about. At Knight Frank Malaysia, we live and breathe passion and commitment every single day. It’s this dedication that drives us to go above and beyond, shaping a better tomorrow together. So, here’s to sweating the small stuff (literally) and making big things happen. We’re all in, and we’re just getting started.

My first day in Malaysia was truly an unforgettable experience. Malaysia is often described as a land of paradise and opportunities, and I quickly understood why. Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by the country's natural beauty and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. One of the most remarkable aspects of Malaysia is its stable and pleasant climate. Unlike many other regions, Malaysia is free from natural disasters like volcanoes, typhoons, and earthquakes. The temperature variation between the maximum and minimum is relatively small, making it a comfortable place to live and visit. What truly makes Malaysia special is its diverse and harmonious population. The people here are incredibly friendly, and I was delighted to meet individuals from various ethnic backgrounds, including Chinese, Melayu, Indians, Iban, Dayak, and Bernio. This rich cultural tapestry adds vibrancy to everyday life and fosters a unique sense of community. Malaysia's democratic government is another aspect that stands out. Governed by fair elections, the country embraces democratic values and promotes political stability. The digitalization of government services has made processes more efficient and accessible, reflecting Malaysia's commitment to progress. From an economic perspective, Malaysia presents ample opportunities for investment. While starting a business can be challenging due to certain obstacles, the environment gradually becomes more favorable with patience and perseverance. Adhering to the regulations and acts, investing here is relatively straightforward and holds the promise of growth. Overall, my first day in Malaysia was a glimpse into a paradise on earth, where opportunities abound, and the blend of nature, culture, and modernity creates an exceptional living experience.

⚠️Wondering how the RTS could benefit you as a business owner? Here's how it does: 👉🏼 Seamless Cross-Border Travel: The #RTS Link will provide a fast and efficient way to travel between Singapore and Johor Bahru, reducing travel time and #costs. 👉🏼 Increased Business Activity: The improved #connectivity will attract businesses to the region, leading to increased economic activity and job creation. 👉🏼 Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Development: The proposed Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone is attracting interest from Singaporean firms seeking to expand their operations into Malaysia. The SEZ is expected to offer various incentives and benefits, further enhancing the attractiveness of Johor as an investment destination. 👉🏼 Global Talent Pool: The region will become more attractive to international talent, thanks to improved connectivity and quality of life. The influx of skilled workers will also drive innovation and business growth. Are you ready to seize the opportunities presented by the RTS Link? Let's explore how we can help you leverage this transformative project to achieve your business goals. #growthwithgrof #grofcorporateservices

The #ProjectFinance sector is experiencing significant growth, with increasing demand for infrastructure and industrial projects across Asia. Yet, navigating this landscape requires strategic partnerships and expert insights. The early bird rate for Asia's premier deal-origination event is expiring soon! Join us on 2-3 October 2024 at #MarinaBaySands, Singapore, for a unique opportunity to network and learn. Why Attend? 🤝 Engage with Senior Leaders: Meet with top-tier executives—Managing Directors, CEOs, CFOs, Global Heads, and Regional Heads. Discuss strategic partnerships and high-stakes deals. 🤝 Curated Sessions: Dive into workshops, idea labs, and exclusive roundtables. Gain deep insights and actionable takeaways. 🤝 Exclusive Networking: Preview the guest list and use our custom messaging platform to set up meetings. Maximize your time with key industry leaders. 🤝 Collaborative Expertise: Harness the combined knowledge of #TXF, Proximo Infra, and Uxolo Development Finance under Exile Group. Network across export, project, and development finance sectors. Don't miss out! Secure your spot before the early bird rate flies away! 🔗 Book your spot here: https://lnkd.in/d_yeNSs7 See the full agenda here: https://lnkd.in/dqftTQhU 📅 2-3 October 2024 📍 Marina Bay Sands, Singapore #FINAsia24 #ProjectFinance #ExportFinance #DevelopmentFinance

Reflecting Week 3 in Malaysia ✈️ All I can say is Wow, I can’t believe it’s already been three weeks since I landed in Malaysia! Time is flying, and this amazing country has taught me so much about adapting, growing, and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. From eating the most incredible Buttermilk Chicken Hotplate (seriously, if you haven’t tried it, you’re missing out!) to diving into the rich cultures and connecting with people from all walks of life, this journey has been nothing short of life changing. Working with international property investors has really shown me how important it is to stay flexible and relevant. Whether it’s understanding cultural traditions, or exploring uncharted territories, Every moment is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make meaningful connections that go beyond borders. I read a quote this weekend that has stuck with me quite a bit: “Get comfortable being uncomfortable. That’s how you break the boundaries and achieve growth.” – Jill Konrath. And honestly, that’s exactly what I’ve been feeling here. It physically feels like I am growing, both personally and professionally. This comes when you embrace change and run head first into the challenges that come with new and unfamiliar environments. What about you though? Have you ever had an experience abroad that completely shifted the way you see the world? I’d love to hear your story in the comments! #Malaysia #Adaptability #PersonalGrowth #LifeLessons

What more could we be? This is a question often asked of Malaysia as a country. Not from the perspective of the basic needs such as clean water, shelter, food. We can safely say that we have that in check, despite it being on a continually challenged path just to be kept at level. But what about its economic development? Safety? Social maturity? Path to self-actualisation for any individual that defines and determines their own wants and needs? Across it all, arguably still very much falling short in all its potential. We're often compared by all the metrics possible, exchange rates, GDP growth, average salaries, cost of living. 3.5 to SGD. Hard metrics are needed, but so are the soft ones. Are we happy? Are we safe? Do we have hope? I've spent my whole life being told that Malaysia has never lived up to its potential. We're in a middle-income trap, we never grew fast enough to match the Asian Tigers. Are we still here? 40 years later? And why is that? We have resources, we have a workforce that is educated, we have developed infrastructure, we have industries of growth, we have tolerance (somewhat), we are comfortable. But maybe that is the exact problem, for being comfortable never challenged anyone to break outside of the box, why should it? The honest thing is, that we'll never really know. We can't A/B test the world, we can't conjure up a Malaysia 2.0 existence that has 0.3 to the SGD. And maybe in that dystopian world, we would have sacrificed more of the things that make us who we are. But we can continue to want the best for ourselves, for our network, for our country. Being thankful for all that exists, but still wanting to improve are not mutually exclusive, neither is it a snub for all that has already been. Perhaps the human condition is such that only with progress, change and improvement do we believe that this life worth living. So, what more could we be?

✨ A Shift in Perspective: The Journey from Singapore to GIFT City✨ Sometimes, it takes a journey outside to truly appreciate what lies within. My visit to Singapore in April 2024 for the 3rd International Conference of ICSI was meant to explore professional opportunities in financial services, particularly in IFSCs. Little did I know, this trip would transform my mindset and open my eyes to the immense potential that lies just 10-12 km away from my home—GIFT City, IFSCA Official. 🌏💼 In Singapore, I had the privilege of interacting with professionals from India, Malaysia, Singapore, and other countries, all deeply engrossed in discussions about the dynamic ecosystem of GIFT IFSCA. Witnessing their enthusiasm and strategic approach made me reflect: Why had I not valued this golden opportunity earlier, despite being so close to it? What Changed? It was the realization of how our Hon'ble Government's initiatives have created a robust framework for professionals like Company Secretaries to thrive in areas like compliance, corporate governance, and financial services. Inspired by these insights, I returned home with a renewed determination to explore the structures, regulations, and opportunities at GIFT City. 🎯 What’s Next? This experience has set me on a mission to uncover opportunities where I can contribute and grow in a corporate role. The horizon looks promising, and the journey has only just begun! "उद्यमेन् हि सिद्ध्यन्ति कार्याणि न मनोरथैः। न हि सुप्तस्य सिंहस्य प्रविशन्ति मुखे मृगाः।।" (Success comes through effort, not merely by dreams. Just as prey does not enter a sleeping lion’s mouth.) Stay tuned as I continue to share updates about what’s unfolding on this exciting journey! 🚀 #GIFTCity #IFSCA #ICSIConference #CompanySecretary #GlobalOpportunities #FinancialServices #ProfessionalGrowth #MindsetShift