YAST Group Founder and Chairlady, Madam Esther Law Lee Poh, was honoured with an ASEAN Outstanding Women Entrepreneur Excellence Award at the 2025 ASEAN Leadership and Partnership Forum held on 25th May in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The 2025 ASEAN Leadership and Partnership Forum (ALPF), held on May 25 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, convened under the theme “Unleashing ASEAN’s Potential Through Innovative, Inclusive and Sustainable Growth.” This premier regional gathering brought together key stakeholders from government, business, academia, and policy institutes to explore strategies for driving ASEAN’s advancement through innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.

Jointly organized by the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, the ASEAN Economic Club, the ASEAN Business Advisory Council, and the ASEAN Business Club—with China Daily as co-organizer and support from the World Digital Chamber—the forum served as a dynamic platform for dialogue and partnership.

The forum was attended by leaders from ASEAN member countries, including Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Cambodian Prime Minister’s senior representative, Prime Minister of Thailand, H.E. Paetongtarn Shinawatra; Secretary-General of ASEAN, H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, and Publisher & Editor-in-Chief, China Daily Hong Kong, Mr. Zhou Li also attended the forum and delivered speeches at the opening ceremony.

The 2025 ASEAN Leadership & Partnership Forum (ALPF) featured the Presentation of ASEAN Excellence Awards to a select group of deserving individuals, organisations, and institutions from across the region. These awards honoured exceptional contributions in areas such as public service, sustainable development, innovation, women’s leadership, youth empowerment, economic resilience, and regional cooperation.

It is with a heart full of gratitude that I reflect on being conferred the ASEAN Outstanding Women Entrepreneur Excellence Award at the 2025 ASEAN Leadership and Partnership Forum. This recognition, which falls on the 20th anniversary of my journey in healthcare and the 10th anniversary of YAST Group, is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives our collective efforts in fostering growth and empowerment.

Reflecting on the themes of “Leadership and Partnership,” I am reminded of the fundamental values that guide my work: relationship, empowerment, attitude, and leadership. Perhaps these principles form the foundation of our practice at YAST Group, where we embrace a “Partnership-As-A-Service” model. We understand that true leadership is not about individual accolades but about fostering symbiosis within an ecosystem that supports collective growth—an ecosystem where every participant thrives and contributes to the welfare of the whole.

I have always believed that relationships are at the core of empowerment. By nurturing strong connections among diverse stakeholders—from venture partners to our clients, to our community and our dedicated team—we work towards creating a fertile ground for a fulfilled innovation model. Leadership, in my view, is not about exerting control over others; rather, it is about cultivating an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to contribute their best selves.

May 25th, 2025, marked not only a celebration of this award but also a significant milestone—the 10th anniversary of YAST. Looking back over the past two decades in healthcare, particularly my journey of service in China since 2005, I can’t help but marvel at how far we have come. This award carries weight, not just personally but symbolically, as it represents years of hard work, dedication, and the sincere commitment of everyone who has been a part of the YAST family.

It is a reminder that the journey is not one of individual accomplishment but a collective endeavor, made possible by our Almighty God, through relationships built on trust, empowerment, and a shared vision for ever growing progress.

At YAST, our ethos centers on the “Partnership-As-A-Service” model. This model emphasizes the idea that true leadership is rooted in collaborative partnership. In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, the ability to harmonize relationships within an ecosystem is vital. Just as in nature, where different species coexist and support one another in a delicate balance of symbiosis, we too must strive to create environments where businesses, communities, and individuals work together for mutual benefit.

When I think of our YAST’s REAL value in Partnership or Ventureship ( Relationship, Empowerment, Attitude, Leadership) REAL, it embodies connecting, enriching, and empowering our world. Connection is essential; it is the very foundation of everything we do. We thrive when we cultivate genuine relationships, not just transactional exchanges. Each connection we nurture lends itself to empowerment, allowing us to support one another in our respective journeys. This cycle of empowerment is what sparks inspiration, creativity, and innovation in our industries and communities.

Leadership today demands a certain attitude—a willingness to listen, understand, and embrace diversity as a strength rather than an obstacle. As I received this award, I felt a profound responsibility. Being a leader is not about being in the spotlight but about shining that light back on those around us. It is crucial that we create an inclusive environment that values every voice. I hope that this approach not only drives sustainable development but also fosters a culture of resilience, ensuring our continued growth no matter the external circumstances we face.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to our Heavenly Father, to KSI for the nomination and conferment, my beloved family, my spiritual director, my mentors, my teachers venture partners, dedicated YAST Group team and community, friends, clients, Toastmasters International, Lions International, Junior Chamber International and church community.

Your unwavering commitment and collaborative spirit have been my guiding light and support system throughout this journey. Together, we have worked tirelessly on prioritizing the development of multiple industries across ASEAN.

As Malaysians, our homeland holds immense meaning, particularly as Malaysia moves forward as the Chair of ASEAN 2025. It reinforces our commitment towards sustained regional peace, stability, and prosperity. These values are paramount, particularly in this era of extraordinary economic transformation which requires collective resolve and concerted efforts across all sectors and communities.

As I accept this award, I do so not just as an individual but as a representative of the collective effort that makes our work possible. Together, we are building a legacy—not only for ourselves but God’s will be done—for future generations who will inherit a more equitable and empowered world.

As we embark on the next chapter of YAST and our role in the wider ASEAN and global community, I and WE promise to uphold these values and strive for a future marked by connection, enrichment, and empowerment through collaborative leadership.

To God be the Glory 🙏

Thank you very much once again for this precious recognition, which resonates deeply with my commitment to SERVE our ASEAN community.

Gratefully,

Esther

News Coverage:

Sarawak Tribune:

Law honoured as ASEAN Outstanding Woman at regional leadership forum

Sinchew Daily News:

东盟领导力与伙伴关系论坛|越总理：美中也难单独解决 东盟须团结应对各挑战

东盟领导力与伙伴关系论坛 刘丽宝膺杰出女企业家

In Times News:

友爱思特集团创始人兼董事长刘丽宝于2025年东盟领导力与伙伴论坛上荣获“东盟杰出女企业家卓越奖

The post 2025-05-26_The ASEAN Outstanding Women Entrepreneur Excellence Award 2025 appeared first on Esther Law.

爱，让她走出古晋，走向世界，学习奉献自己，感受天主的恩典。

刘丽宝也热爱绘画与写作，这是她此生不断深化的志趣。绘画让她感受到更多的自己，而写作让她看到自己年复一年的进化。绘画与写作的结合，让她更接近深化与天主的恩典。

意念意境意志 决定企业寿命

越是有明，越要谦虚；
越是有名，越要低调。
成为唯一是她的目标，
成为明人是她的目的 ─
谦卑低调、虚心学习是关键。

名人传记：刘丽宝

Media Links

Sinchew Daily 星洲日报

名人传记珍藏系列．多才多艺女企业家．刘丽宝 把世界带到砂拉越

https://sarawak.sinchew.com.my/news/20240927/sarawak/5840926

Facebook Sin Chew Sarawak 砂拉越星洲日報 脸书链接

刘丽宝是来自伦乐小镇的本土女企业家、作者、专栏作家、直观画志趣者及社会人文工作者。她本着生于砂拉越，成长于砂拉越的理念，在古晋设立友爱思特（YAST）集团，定点砂拉越，以婆罗洲为基础，服务全世界。

https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=942172917950991&id=100064748738698&mibextid=oFDknk&rdid=TZLQH5TEbRfPkpsn

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The 2024 World Women Economic & Business Summit and Awards is focused on the advancement of women in corporate leadership and entrepreneurship.

This initiative aims to encourage and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit within our community, drive business performance to create a competitive advantage for women in our corporate environment and transform local businesswomen into outstanding leaders who can contribute more broadly to their firm’s ongoing success.

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Landmarks achieved but some ways yet for true gender equality in Malaysia, says Queen

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Bernama

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Intagram KPWKM

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星洲日报

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国际时报

YAST集团创始人兼主席刘丽宝荣获“2024世界女性领导卓越奖”
https://intimes.com.my/news2a/index.php/2018-07-09-11-40-04/2018-07-09-11-46-38/item/94809-yast-2024

联合日报 United Daily News

砂傑出女商人劉麗寶 榮獲世界女性領導卓越獎
https://weareunited.com.my/12220482/

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Our founder and chairlady, madam Esther Law Lee Poh, received the ASEAN Great Entrepreneur Award 2024 on 15th August in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

In conjunction with ASEAN Day 2024, the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific, in collaboration with the ASEAN Economic Club and the World Trade Network, hosted the 2024 Great Asean Entrepreneur Award to recognise and honour entrepreneurs who have made outstanding contributions to regional growth and economic prosperity in the ASEAN region.

The prestigious award ceremony is organised to recognise and celebrate the contributions of outstanding individuals through this award ceremony.

Message from Founder and Chairlady

I would like to express my sincere gratitude for being awarded the ASEAN Great Entrepreneur Award 2024. This moment is truly humbling.

I am grateful and thankful to the Love and Grace of God, which has always been my guiding light. Without God’s Loving Grace.. I am NOTHING

Congratulations to our beloved Leader of Sarawak, our Premier of Sarawak, for the conferment of Great ASEAN Distinguished Leadership Excellence Award. It is a great honor to be part of this prestigious occasion.

I am thankful to KSI for this esteemed recognition. This award not only acknowledges my efforts but also highlights the hard work and dedication of my spiritual director, mentors, partners, team and staff. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in achieving this milestone.

I am also grateful to my family and friends for their constant encouragement. This award is a testament to our collective journey.

As I strive for personal growth and learning to serve for the betterment of mankind, I will continue to learn and evolve… Partnering with God has been the cornerstone of my life…

Thank you very much and all Glory to God…

Gratefully yours,
Esther Law Lee Poh

Media Reports

New Sarawak Tribune

https://www.sarawaktribune.com/sarawaks-woman-entrepreneur-receives-great-asean-entrepreneur-award/

Suara Sarawak

Sinchew Daily 星洲日报

https://sarawak.sinchew.com.my/news/20240817/sarawak/5847401

International Times 国际时报

砂杰出女企业家刘丽宝荣获2024年东盟企业家卓越奖

https://intimes.com.my/news2a/index.php/2018-07-09-11-40-04/2018-07-09-11-46-38/item/93472-2024

United Daily News 联合日报

砂女企業家劉麗寶 獲東盟企業家卓越獎

https://weareunited.com.my/12204970/

Related News

UKAS (Unit Komunikasi Awam Sarawak)

Sarawak Premier Receives The Great ASEAN Distinguished Leadership Excellence Award

https://premierdept.sarawak.gov.my/web/subpage/news_view/5232/UKAS

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Our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Bede Hong, the General Manager of Invest Sarawak for making this visitation possible.

During the visit, they were truly captivated by the exceptional tour and the in-depth explanations of the various plant species, graciously provided by the remarkable team. It is with utmost gratitude that we extend our sincere appreciation to the CEO of Sarawak Biodiversity Centre, Yang Berbahagia Dato Dr. Yeo Tiong Chia, for hosting us and imparting such invaluable insights.

The post 2024-05-29_Honourable Visit to Sarawak Biodiversity Centre appeared first on Esther Law.

It is with utmost gratitude that we extend our sincere appreciation to the Deputy Minister for Transport Sarawak II (Riverine and Maritime), Yang Berhormat Dato Henry Harry anak Jinep, for hosting us and imparting such invaluable insights during this productive and enlightening session.

Media Report

Read full article: 6中國企業有意來砂建廠 友愛思特集團拜會副交長

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During this esteemed visit, we engaged in comprehensive discussions with the Deputy Premier to explore and understand the favourable policies and incentives available for prospective investments and collaborations.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Sarawak government for their warm welcome, hospitality, and unwavering support.

Click to check out the full article on TVS here:

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We extend our deepest gratitude to Invest Sarawak and their outstanding representative, CEO Timothy Ong, for his exceptional support and the enlightening session he provided. It fills us with immense pride to witness his dedication to showcasing Sarawak with such honour and distinction to our global partners.

#YASTGROUP #EXEHEALTHCARE #INVESTSARAWAK

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It was such a great honour to have the blessing of welcoming the presence of His Excellency T.Y.T, Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, and his beloved wife, Yang Amat Berbahagia, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, at the YAST Office in conjunction of the tenth day of Chinese New Year, on February 19, 2024.

We are forever grateful to Tun and Toh Puan, whose attendance has bestowed upon us immeasurable joy, rendering our Chinese New Year celebration profoundly meaningful. Their graciousness and humility have left an indelible mark on our hearts. May their warmth and camaraderie continue to illuminate our path throughout the year ahead.

With the utmost sincerity and profound gratitude, we would also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our beloved guests:

– Tuan Raden Sigit Witjaksono (Consul General, Indonesia Consulate)

– Ibu Lucy Octavia (Spouse)

– Yang Berhormat Dato Ir Lo Khere Chiang (ADUN State Assembly N14 Batu Kitang)

– Tuan Haji Junih (Private Secretary of TYT)

– Tuan Theodorus Satrio Nugroho (Consul Economy, Indonesia Consulate)


– Father Ramon

– Father Andrea

Check out the link below to explore the news coverage:

TYT, wife celebrate CNY with Yast Group

Image from publication:

Check out the link below to explore the news coverage:

https://suarasarawak.my/tyt-berami-enggau-yast-group/

Image from the publication:

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https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BNPHv6d1e/

Thank you for featuring us anak Sarawak in your sharing. We will continue to strive our best in contributing back to our homeland being a native Sarawak enterprise with a global reach.

#YASTGroup #Sarawak #Globalizatiom

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