Kota Kinabalu: Sabah businesses seeking to expand into national and regional markets need strong management, capable teams and a clear strategy as much as financing, said Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad (KTC) executive director Datuk Dexter Lau.
He spoke at Kembara Borneo 2026 Sabah on Oct 14, organised by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and Capital Markets Malaysia.
He was a panellist alongside SC managing director Datin Paduka Azalina Adham, with Tan Sri Andrew Sheng as moderator.
Dexter warned entrepreneurs against focusing only on raising funds or copying high-profile business owners, saying growth must rest on a realistic plan.
“You must have a plan,” he said, adding that businesses should set a clear direction before seeking capital.
He said investors look at more than growth projections. They want consistency in planning, operations and management, and proof that a company can use capital well.
Entrepreneurs should also know their numbers, competitors and the people driving the business.
Dexter said KTC’s preparation for its public listing involved rigorous scrutiny by the SC. The process was demanding but pushed the group to strengthen its leadership, governance and operations.
He urged Sabah entrepreneurs to use platforms such as Kembara Borneo to engage regulators and capital market professionals, and to ask questions before pursuing financing.
Sheng said networking is important and that Sabah companies have opportunities to connect with global markets.
Kembara Borneo 2026 Sabah aims to raise awareness among micro, small and medium enterprises and mid-tier companies of capital market financing and to strengthen collaboration among government agencies, investors and industry stakeholders.
