Insights from Dato’ Liaw Choon Liang’s Keynote at the ASEAN Social Business Conference 2024

At the ASEAN Social Business Conference (ASBC) 2024, Dato’ Liaw Choon Liang, President & CEO of Focus Point Holdings Berhad, had the honor of sharing Focus Point’s journey toward Focused Sustainability—a strategy that drives our purpose to create positive social impact in every step we take. In his keynote, Dato’ Liaw shared his vision, deeply aligned with Professor Muhammad Yunus' “Three Zeros” approach: zero poverty, zero unemployment, and zero carbon emissions. These principles have been the cornerstone of our efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

Focused Sustainability: A Business with Purpose

In his address, Dato’ Liaw explained how People, Planet, and Purpose are integrated into every facet of Focus Point’s operations. Our commitment to Focused Sustainability is more than a strategy—it’s a call to action for businesses everywhere to embrace their potential to drive social good. With over 26,580 free eye screenings this year, a dedication to renewable energy, and initiatives that foster future optometrists, create jobs, and support communities in need, Focus Point exemplifies how business can be a force for change.

Entrepreneurship: Creating Opportunities for Change

Entrepreneurship has the power to turn ideas into reality, and Focus Point believes in creating opportunities for aspiring business owners to make a real impact. Through our Focus Point SightSavers franchise program, we’re enabling entrepreneurs to open the doors to quality eye care in underserved areas. These entrepreneurs are more than just business owners—they are change-makers who bring essential services to their communities, empowering individuals to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Empathy: The Heart of Our Mission

Empathy is at the heart of everything we do, and Dato’ Liaw shared several impactful initiatives in his speech that reflect this commitment. From donating over 1,000 pairs of eyewear to students in need to launching our Used Eyewear Donation Campaign—which refurbishes and redistributes unwanted eyewear to underserved communities—we are making vision care accessible to everyone, regardless of background or financial situation.

In addition, Focus Point’s partnership with The Lost Food Project has led to the donation of nearly 8,500 kilograms of food to families facing food insecurity, providing hope and relief to those in need. Dato’ Liaw highlighted that every loaf of bread we give is a gesture of kindness that reflects our commitment to showing up for our communities with purpose and compassion.

In Conclusion: A Call to Action for All Businesses

As Dato’ Liaw concluded his keynote, he reminded the audience that sustainability is not just a corporate buzzword—it’s a responsibility. "Our sustainability journey is deeply rooted in the 4Es Model—Education, Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Empathy. These guiding principles shape every decision, every project, and every step we take towards a brighter future. Each ‘E’ represents a promise to uplift others, create opportunities, and make a meaningful difference."

We hope that Dato’ Liaw’s message inspires businesses to embrace their role in driving social responsibility and sustainability. Together, we can create a world where impact is at the forefront of every decision, and where businesses are a true force for good.