Winners of 16th Star Outstanding Business Awards demonstrate resilience, leadership in challenging environments
AMID ongoing disruptions to global businesses and supply chains, Star Media Group (SMG) Bhd is spotlighting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as key drivers of Malaysia’s economic growth and resilience.
At the 16th Star Outstanding Business Awards (SOBA), 84 accolades were presented across three categories – Top of the Class Awards, Outstanding Achievement Awards and the SOBA Mikro Recognition Award.
Winners were further segmented into two tiers: companies with annual turnover up to RM25mil and those with RM25mil and above.
Held at One World Hotel in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, the event brought together industry players competing in categories such as Best Brand, Best Employer, Best Green Initiative, Best Customer Service, Best Halal Product and Service, Best Marketing and Best Retail, among others.
SMG group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt highlighted the growing importance of resilience and leadership in an increasingly complex business environment.
“Business today is not just about numbers – it’s about people, relationships and the ability to navigate challenges.
“Our winners are not just successful; they are leaders who have shown vision, discipline and resilience in uncertain times.”
He stressed that the award’s credibility lay in its rigorous and transparent evaluation process.
“This is not something that can be bought – it is earned through merit, strong governance and trust.”
Guest of honour Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim called on businesses to stay agile and forward-looking against the backdrop of global uncertainty,
“What we are facing today is not a normal situation.
“The global landscape is becoming increasingly unpredictable, with many competing forces at play.
“But amid that uncertainty, what we need is awareness – not panic, but readiness to grow.”
Judges and industry representatives pointed to SOBA’s broader role in shaping stronger, more competitive businesses.
For Branding Association of Malaysia deputy president Datuk Jennifer Ong, the awards open doors for SMEs to gain meaningful recognition.
“It gives companies a platform to be recognised, and more importantly, it encourages young entrepreneurs to step forward and follow in the footsteps of past winners,” she said.
Looking beyond financial metrics The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia treasurer Datuk Koong Lin Loong said SOBA pushed businesses to evaluate their overall strength.
“It not only focuses on profitability, but also emphasises corporate social responsibility.
“If you want to prove your mettle, take part – it’s a chance to see how strong your products and management really are.”
That emphasis on benchmarking was echoed by Malaysia Entrepreneurs Development Association president Datuk Dr Teh Tai Yong, who described the awards as a structured framework for measuring performance against industry leaders.
“It promotes strategic clarity, good governance and long-term resilience – not just short-term financial results,” he said.
Malaysia Consortium of Mid-Tier Companies president Martin Ang said the platform gave participants a clearer sense of where they stand.
“It also helps them identify areas to strengthen and remain competitive in a changing business environment,” he said.
Branding Association of Malaysia immediate past president and honorary president league Datin Winnie Loo said SOBA’s impact extended well beyond the trophies.
“This initiative goes beyond being just an award – it validates companies and elevates their visibility,” she said.
Echoing that sentiment,
Malaysia Retail Chain Association vice-president Datuk Vincent Choo pointed to the collaborative ecosystem fostered by the programme.
“It offers access to knowledge-sharing through forums, networking and mentorship, creating a supportive environment that helps businesses grow and future-proof their operations,” he said.
Guests also explored booths set up by sponsors offering insight into their products and services.
The evening was enlivened by performances from soul singer and songwriter Poova Sri Rama.
SOBA 2025 was organised by SMG, with Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd, PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd, RHB Bank Bhd and U Mobile Sdn Bhd as the main sponsors.
Great Wall Motor Sales Malaysia Sdn Bhd was the co-sponsor, while the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation served as the official trade promotion partner and SME Corp Malaysia as a supporter.
Radio stations 988 and Suria were the official media partners.
The awards were audited by BDO. For details, call 017-231 1789 or visit www.soba.com.my
