Joshua Chin, Founder, Smart Rental & Buy Now
The magnitude of the global IT equipment subscription market is flaring high, largely driven by the augmenting demand for flexible and cost-effective IT solutions, remote work, and the adoption of cloud computing. The market size is expected to hit $45 billion by 2032 if the reports are anything to go by. However, foreseeing the scope of such a market 25 years ago, when the IT revolution was just taxiing on the runway before its historical takeoff, is no easy feat. This priceless foresight became a game changer for Joshua Chin, the founder of IT equipment subscription services companies Smart Rental and Buynow, to savor the early mover advantage and build unmatched trust and legacy in the industry.
Today, a pioneer in the industry, Joshua is at the heart of Asia’s IT equipment subscription industry, making a difference in the sustainability matrix with his innovative business model and approach. Along with his business and life partner Kathleen Tham (Co-Founder & COO), Joshua pilots his ventures to help businesses and individuals transform, enabling them access to high-quality IT solutions.
Joe Yudai Takagi: Bringing Cutting-Edge Technology To Southeast Asia's Customization Market
By: Joe Yudai Takagi, Founder & CEO, CUSTA
Kian Kee Kok: Driving Retail Excellence Through Innovation & Operational Integration
By: Kian Kee Kok, CEO, The Food Purveyor
E-Commerce Continues to Gain Momentum in Malaysia
By: Sujith Vasudevan, Managing Editor
The retail industry in Malaysia contributes an estimated 8.6 percent to the country’s economy. The recent renewal of trade vows with India will significantly contribute to the growth of the industry. Both nations observed the need to accelerate
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Top 10 CEOs in Malaysia from Retail & E-Commerce - 2025
Malaysia's retail and e-commerce industry is evolving dynamically, and driving this change are innovative CEOs who are transforming the way consumers shop, interact, and interact with brands. With digital adoption speeding up and consumer behavior changing, business leaders from Malaysia's retail and e-commerce industries are adopting innovation, data-driven tactics, and omni-channel strategies to remain competitive in today's fast-paced environment.
"Malaysian retail and e-commerce pioneers are committed to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and inclusive growth, in line with international standards while remaining local in their values"
These CEOs are not only guiding traditional retail brands into the digital age but also fostering homegrown e-commerce platforms that compete with international giants. From hyper-personalized consumer experiences to efficient last-mile delivery and integrated payment systems, their vision is building a future where convenience, speed, and customer love come together. They are also helping to finance micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) by facilitating digital storefronts, offering logistics infrastructure, and providing new channels of market access.
Additionally, Malaysian retail and e-commerce pioneers are committed to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and inclusive growth, in line with international standards while remaining local in their values. Some are using AI, big data, and automation to enhance efficiency and decision-making, with a culture of agility and customer-centricity.
As Malaysia solidifies its position as a regional digital economy powerhouse in Southeast Asia, these CEOs are at the vanguard - trailing innovation and tradition, and propelling growth in one of the region's most dynamic consumer markets. Their visionary ambition and strategic vision are not only reshaping businesses but also reimagining the future of trade in Malaysia and beyond.
CEO Insights Asia in this issue presents a list of ‘Top 10 CEOs in Malaysia from Retail & E-Commerce - 2025' who have leveraged their extensive industry expertise and experience in offering effective skills to the market. The following list has been prepared after being closely scrutinized by a distinguished panel of judges including CXOs, analysts and our editorial board. We recognize their valuable contribution to the ever expanding and competitive market and their ability to sustain themselves and emerge as top contestants through their reliable knowledge.
Our subscribers play a decisive role in finalization of our annual list of "Top 10 CEOs in Malaysia from Retail & E-Commerce - 2025" by nominating those which have served them with excellence and are praiseworthy. If you feel there is a company that deserves to be on our annual list, do write to us about them mentioning their value proposition.
| Company Logo | Company Management | Company Name | Company Description |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Audrey Lim, Co-CEO | AEON Co | With a background in business strategy and operations, she plays a key role in driving the company's transformation and sustainability initiatives |
 |
Daniel Teng, CEO | Jaya Grocer | Known for his strategic vision and operational expertise, he has played a key role in expanding operations, modernizing the retail experience, and strengthening the company’s position in the market |
 |
Eric Cheng, Co-Founder & CEO | Carsome | With a wealth of experience in digital and e-commerce platforms, he excels in digital marketing, media planning, business development, business strategy, Ad serving and other skills |
 |
Fadz Subari, CEO | Eartheories | With two decades of industry experience, he began his career working with prominent international brands that provided deep insight into global retail |
 |
Jace Tan, CEO | Naga Asian Beauty | She has revolutionized the beauty retail industry in Southeast Asia by securing exclusive partnerships with top Korean brands and launching successful in-house brands, driven by a passion for innovation |
 |
Joe Yudai Takagi , Founder & CEO | Custa | With a background in system development, he has held leadership roles at major companies, driving growth and innovation across industries in Japan and beyond |
 |
Joshua Chin , Founder | Buynow | With over 25 years of professional experience, he is a pioneer in the IT equipment subscription industry and is deeply passionate about building a sustainable IT ecosystem |
 |
Kian Kee Kok, CEO | The Food Purveyor | He has held key leadership positions across various companies, successfully driven business growth and profitability, and developed effective merchandising and procurement strategies across multiple regions |
 |
Lingesh Lechamanan, Founder & CEO | Asia Retail Academy | More than 20 years of management experience in marketing, sales, operations, change management, project management, negotiation, operations, business strategy and L&D |
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Paul Ritchie , CEO | Tesco | He progressed through store operations, eventually moving into senior leadership roles across several international markets, with a focus on operational efficiency, team development, and adapting global retail strategies to local consumer needs |
Other Issues
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