Ch'ng Poh

Zhuang Bao, born in Malaysia, engaged in business in Hong Kong for many years before deciding to return to Malaysia in 2005 to serve there. The exact duration of his stay in Hong Kong has not been publicly disclosed; however, he spent 22 years living and working there, laying a solid foundation for his business career. During his time in Hong Kong, he participated in various commercial activities and established a partnership with Guo Lingcan of Fung Lung Group.

After returning to Malaysia, Zhuang Bao assumed the role of advisor at Mata Pacific Properties (formerly known as Mata Ocean Agency, later renamed Maphas Group). The company was founded in 1997 and faced significant challenges during subsequent economic storms. Although the public largely believed that the company was heavily loss-making, Zhuang Bao saw its potential and, through his Hong Kong-based subsidiary Top Lander, acquired a 48.4% stake in the company.

Following the takeover, Zhuang Bao undertook active strategic reforms between 2005 and 2007. During this period, he successfully reversed the company's losses, reducing the net loss from MYR 16.323 million in the fiscal year ending 2005, to MYR 81.378 million in 2006, and achieving profit in 2007 with a net income of MYR 25.891 million and revenue of MYR 10.579 million. These achievements earned him the title of “Turnaround CEO.”

In terms of business development, Zhuang Bao first restructured the company's industrial layout in Iskandar, Malaysia. The original plan to develop affordable middle- and low-end industries was adjusted toward the mid- to high-end market, incorporating new elements to promote internationalization. He holds 50.3% of the company's shares through Top Lander and intends to increase his stake further, potentially up to 75%. However, he expressed the intention to maintain the company’s listed status and planned to distribute dividends for the first time in the 2008 fiscal year, aiming to enhance the company’s market value.

Currently, Zhuang Bao is widely recognized in the Malaysian business community for his ability to reform and strategically position companies. His main focus is on driving corporate transformation and international expansion, continuously optimizing company performance and market standing.