CEO Insights Magazine

Today, Malaysia serves as a regional hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and medical device production, catering to both domestic and international markets. The industry is currently undergoing transformation, driven by digital health innovations, biotechnology advancements, and a rising demand for high-quality healthcare solutions.

Key players contributing to Malaysia’s pharmaceutical and life sciences landscape include both multinational corporations and homegrown enterprises.

Driving forward initiatives in R&D, manufacturing excellence, and healthcare accessibility is Sock Ngee Chong, the CEO of AesD International (M) and Founder and CEO of HEALTHVANTAGE , a company she has led since 2012.

With over two decades of experience in the pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors, Sock Ngee Chong exemplifies leadership that blends scientific expertise with business acumen. She holds a Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Hons) from University Putra Malaysia and a Master of Business Administration from the University of South Australia.

Her career began in regulatory roles, where she developed a strong foundation in pharmaceutical safety and compliance. Over time, she transitioned into strategic leadership positions, focusing on innovation, customer-centric healthcare solutions, and sustainable business growth.

Today, under the guidance of Sock Ngee Chong, HEALTHVANTAGE has grown into a recognized name in the industry, known for its dedication to high-quality products and services. At AesD International, Sock Ngee Chong continues to drive expansion in medical technology, underlining her commitment to elevating Malaysia’s standing in the global life sciences arena.

CEO Insights Asia engaged in a one-on-one interaction with Sock Ngee Chong. Let’s read on.

With over 23 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors, could you highlight some of the most significant achievements that have defined your professional journey?

Over the past two decades, my career has evolved through a wide spectrum of roles, beginning in regulatory affairs, progressing through leadership positions in sales and marketing, and ultimately advancing to senior management. This journey has allowed me to gain a comprehensive view of the industry and lead high-performing teams with a focus on innovation and growth.

A key highlight has been the opportunity to work closely with key opinion leaders (KOLs) in the medical field, fostering strong collaborations that have played a critical role in enhancing product positioning and encouraging clinical acceptance of new technologies.

Among the most notable milestones was intro­ducing groundbreaking international technologies to the Malaysian market. This includes CoolSculpt­ing, a body contouring treatment based on research from Harvard Medical School, and the first FDA-ap­proved ultrasound-based non-invasive face-lifting solution in Malaysia.

These initiatives not only ad­vanced the aesthetics segment but also strengthened confidence in the adoption of cutting-edge medical technologies within the local healthcare landscape.

How do you ensure that your pharmaceutical and medical device products consistently meet safety and regulatory standards?

Drawing from my early career experience in regulatory affairs, I’ve always placed strong emphasis on compliance as a cornerstone of product safety and reliability. At both AesD International and HEALTHVANTAGE, we’ve implemented robust quality assurance systems and internal controls to ensure that all products meet or exceed local regulatory requirements.

Our approach goes beyond basic compliance, it includes active collaboration with regulatory bodies, ongoing post-market surveillance, and ensuring that all clinical claims are backed by credible scientific data. We also prioritize ethical marketing practices and invest in continuous education for healthcare professionals to promote safe, evidence-based product use.

Can you describe your leadership style and the principles that guide your approach to leading teams?

My leadership style is primarily collaborative, rooted in open communication and mutual respect. I believe that fostering an environment where team members feel empowered to share their ideas leads to stronger innovation and a deeper sense of ownership.

When individuals feel their contributions matter, they tend to engage more passionately and take greater responsibility in achieving shared goals.

That said, I also understand the importance of adaptability. In times of crisis, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, I shifted to a more directive approach, making swift, decisive choices to safeguard our operations and ensure the well-being of our teams. To me, effective leadership is about striking the right balance between listening and taking the lead when it matters most.

What strategies do you use to stay current with industry developments and guide your organization toward future opportunities?

In an industry that evolves as rapidly as healthcare and medical technology, staying updated is essential. I make it a priority to attend international medical congresses and specialized forums, particularly in areas like anti-aging, aesthetic medicine, and cutting-edge medical innovations.

These events offer critical insights into global trends, upcoming technologies, and evolving patient needs, while also providing opportunities to engage with leading experts and thought leaders.

Beyond events, I maintain strong connections with manufacturers, clinicians, and researchers across

different regions. These relationships help ensure that I stay informed about the latest advancements and best practices, allowing me to steer my organizations with a forward-looking and innovation-driven mindset.

What is your long-term vision for the future of your companies?

My long-term vision for both AesD International and HEALTHVANTAGE is to establish them as the premier providers of medical aesthetic solutions in Malaysia. We’re working toward creating a comprehensive, one-stop platform for medical professionals, offering everything from cutting-edge pharmaceutical products and injectables to advanced medical devices and over-the-counter solutions.

Looking ahead, we aspire to be more than just a distributor. Our goal is to become a full-service, innovation-driven partner in the medical aesthetics and wellness industry. This includes offering OEM capabilities and holistic support to help healthcare professionals grow and elevate their practices in a rapidly evolving market.

What guidance would you offer to emerging leaders looking to succeed in the pharmaceutical and medical device industry?

Stay true to your core values and commit to lifelong learning. The healthcare industry evolves rapidly, and effective leadership requires adaptability, resilience, and a clear vision for the future. One of the most powerful investments you can make is in your team, empower them, listen to their ideas, and grow alongside them.

It’s equally important to remain humble and build trust through your expertise, integrity, and meaningful relationships within the industry. Don’t shy away from taking calculated risks, but always take time to reflect and learn from the results. Growth, both personal and professional, is shaped by experience and the willingness to evolve.

Sock Ngee Chong Founder & CEO, Healthvantage

Sock Ngee Chong is the founder and CEO of Healthvantage and CEO of aesd international (m) , with over 23 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and medical device industry. With a background in biomedical science and an mba, she specializes in regulatory affairs, business development, and innovation, driving growth through ethical leadership and a commitment to advancing medical aesthetics and wellness solutions in malaysia.

QUICK FACTS

Hobbies: Reading and jogging, both of which give me mental clarity and keep me energized for the day ahead.

Favourite Cuisine: I enjoy both Chinese and Western cuisine, especially those prepared in a healthy, balanced style.

Favourite Book: The 5AM Club by Robin Sharma, an inspiring read that reinforces the importance of discipline, productivity, and leading a purposeful life.

Favourite Travel Destination: Nice and Monaco, France, places I regularly visit to attend the Anti- Aging & Aesthetics Medicine World Congress. The vibrant mix of culture, science, and scenic beauty make it a truly enriching destination.