Events

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17th 2018, KUALA LUMPUR: The Branding Association of Malaysia has celebrated its 18th year of championing ideas and guiding Malaysian brands toward achieving greater objectives  - The Branding Gala 2018 - The Red Carpet Affair, which was graced by a plethora of eminent luminaries who have been integral to the development of our fair country.
 
“Over the past few decades, branding has taken quite a turn. It is no longer about having an iconic mark or a clever award-winning advertising campaign that puts you in the international arena.  Nor is it about merely just connecting with the consumer anymore. With the advent of social media, products not only need to be authentic, but they also need to make a stand or a bold move that will impact and unite an already fragmented market.” said Datuk Eric Chong, President of Branding Association of Malaysia.
 
Therefore, it is no surprise that on the Branding Association of Malaysia’s auspicious 18th anniversary they chose to unveil their inaugural NATION BUILDER TRIBUTE. The Nation Builder Tribute aims to pay tribute to those select few Malaysians who have created an everlasting impact in one or more of the following areas: Government, Academia, Economic, Humanitarian & Social, Culture & Arts, Sports, Science & Technology and Philanthropy.

This year, Branding Association chose three noble individuals.

The first recipient of the Nation Builder Tribute was the 5th Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Tun Dato' Sri Haji Abdullah bin Haji Ahmad Badawi. Tun Abdullah Badawi was honoured for his efforts in the eradication of corruption and the creation of a fair and open Malaysian society. Tun is well-loved by all Malaysians and is also known as “Father of Human Capital Development”.

The second recipient was YBhg Tan Sri Datuk Sir Tiong Hiew King, founder of Rimbunan Hijau Group and Executive Chairman of Media Chinese International Limited. Tan Sri Tiong Hiew King was honoured for his immense economic contribution to the country as well as his role as a champion for the Malaysian Chinese culture.

The third recipient was YBhg Tan Sri Dr Tony Fernandes, Group CEO of AirAsia & AirAsia X. Tan Sri Tony Fernandes created one of the world’s foremost budget airlines and made ‘now everyone can fly’ a reality. The AirAsia brand is flying the Malaysian flag high and his story has - and will continue to - inspire all Malaysians for generations to come.
Datuk Eric said, "We need to remember that Malaysia is also a brand. This mega brand is derived from the total lifework of every individual in the country. We cannot deny that the lifework of certain individuals has had greater and a more positive impact on the country than others. In fact, for some, their life work has even rippled into the global arena. The Branding Association believes strongly that they should be honoured. We want them to know that they are our country’s pride.” Datuk Eric furthermore stated that he believed this move would promote even greater unity among Malaysians.

The Association inducted 30 new members today, which were all from distinguished entities, who received their membership certificates on this very evening.
 
The Organising Chairperson, Dato’ Jennifer Ong thanked all of the many supporting brands, associations and media representatives, praising their hard work and efforts, which had helped to make this evening such a success.

Approximately 700 participants, from both Malaysia as well as overseas, attended this Branding Gala.