Global CEO Magazine recently spoke with Engineer Chow Pui Hee, Group Managing Director of Samaiden Group Berhad, Malaysia.

Q: Engineer Chow Pui Hee, thank you for joining us. It’s a pleasure to have you with us. As Samaiden Group Berhad ventures into the Sri Lankan market, you aim to introduce new technology and energy-efficient solutions, making a significant impact on how we illuminate our spaces here. Before we begin our conversation, could you start by telling us, what is Samaiden?

Samaiden is a renewable energy and power system service provider, and we are a leading public-listed company in Malaysia. Our main role involves the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of large-scale solar power plants, as well as other renewable energy projects. To date, Samaiden has installed nearly 1,000 megawatts of capacity, primarily in Malaysia.

Q: That’s impressive. So, you’re a leader in the renewable energy sector. What prompted your entry into the Sri Lankan market, especially given the recent economic challenges?

Renewable energy is booming globally. Malaysia has ambitious renewable energy targets, and we understand that Sri Lanka has set a significant target of 70% renewable energy mix by 2030. This presents an opportunity for us to contribute to Sri Lanka’s renewable energy goals. Despite the economic challenges, environmental issues are a global agenda, and we believe that Sri Lanka’s commitment to these issues will attract global investors interested in environmental projects.

Q: As Sri Lanka is still developing, it’s natural for us to be curious about how your projects will impact the country’s renewable energy sector. Could you elaborate on this?

Sri Lanka is experiencing energy shortages due to increased industrialisation and demand. While coal power plants can meet this demand, they also increase carbon emissions. Renewable energy is the sustainable solution. We have noted that Sri Lanka has encouraging policies, and we have been engaging with the Board of Investment to understand how we can contribute to developing solar power plants and advancing the green economy in Sri Lanka.

Q: In this new venture, you are collaborating with Rupee Lighting Solutions. What is their significance to your projects?

Rupee Lighting Solutions is a lighting specialist in Malaysia. We have successfully collaborated with them on projects there and see great potential in expanding this collaboration to Sri Lanka. With increasing development in lighting requirements, integrating energy-efficient lighting with renewable energy solutions is crucial for achieving a sustainable economy.

Q: Given the economic difficulties faced by Sri Lanka recently, how can your projects benefit local businesses and communities?

Although Sri Lanka is facing challenges, foreign investment in green projects brings funding, technology transfer, and job opportunities. By developing these projects, we not only contribute to the country’s green initiatives but also provide local employment and skill development through technology transfer and project management.

Q: What environmental benefits will your company bring to Sri Lanka?

Our expertise lies in making renewable energy projects technically feasible and commercially viable. We ensure high-quality engineering design and long-term operation and maintenance of systems. With over a decade of experience, we can apply this knowledge to ensure sustainable and efficient energy solutions in Sri Lanka.

Q: How will you leverage your expertise to benefit Sri Lanka?

Our experience comes from developing close to 1,000 megawatts of projects in Malaysia. In Sri Lanka, where the solar project capacity is relatively smaller, we can apply our technical know-how, financial strength, and secure additional funding to make a significant impact.

Q: What challenges do you foresee in entering the Sri Lankan market?

Our initial visit is focused on understanding local regulations and forming partnerships. Challenges typically include navigating local rules and regulations and working with local labour. We plan to engage with authorities and partners to ensure smooth project execution.

Q: How do you plan to interact with local stakeholders?

We appreciate our partners from the Business Council of Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia, who have introduced us to local stakeholders. We will continue to engage with them and understand the local situation to develop a suitable business plan.

Q: What measures will you take to ensure the quality and reliability of your products?

With over ten years in the industry, we ensure quality through rigorous engineering design, optimal system design, and quality control. We have experience dealing with similar weather conditions in Malaysia and Sri Lanka, which enhances our ability to deliver reliable solutions.

Q: Shifting focus a bit, could you share your journey as a female leader in a male-dominated industry?

My background in chemical engineering led me to design and build wastewater treatment plants. When Malaysia began promoting renewable energy in 2012, I saw an opportunity and founded Samaiden. The company has grown significantly, and we now have over 100 employees and a market capitalisation of approximately 100 million USD. My journey has been about leveraging opportunities and providing sustainable solutions.

Q: How would you describe your leadership style?

In the early days, I was involved in all aspects of the company, from administration to construction. As the company grew, I focused on training and guiding my team, ensuring they understand the purpose and impact of their tasks. Clear communication of goals and their significance is essential for effective leadership.

Q: What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs starting out?

I have observed that Sri Lankan women entrepreneurs are very powerful and independent. For those starting out, my advice is to leverage opportunities, build expertise, and remain resilient. It’s encouraging to see strong women in Sri Lanka, and I believe it’s a great place to work and collaborate.

Q: What is your business motto?

My business motto is to ensure success and results. We aim to make things happen and develop projects that yield tangible outcomes.

Q: How does your organisation stand out in the competitive renewable energy sector?

In Malaysia, the renewable energy sector is competitive, but as a female-led company, we offer a unique perspective. Our focus on innovative and cost-effective solutions, combined with our extensive experience, differentiates us from other players in the industry.

Q: How do you create value for your stakeholders?

We view our role as a total solution provider. Beyond project development and construction, we assist with funding, regulatory approvals, and resource management to ensure timely project completion and successful outcomes.

Q: Finally, what trends do you foresee in the renewable energy sector, and how are you preparing for them?

The industry is evolving towards more cost-efficient and innovative energy solutions. We are committed to staying ahead of these trends by adopting new technologies and optimising our processes to provide green energy at the lowest possible cost.
Thank you, Engineer Chow Pui Hee, for joining us. It was a pleasure to have you here, especially coming all the way from Malaysia.