SIBU: A glimpse into how a traditional Chinese medicine business has survived and evolved across generations was among the highlights of a recent corporate visit jointly organised by Junior Chamber International (JCI) Mandarin Sibu and JCI Youth MPI (Methodist Pilley Institute).
The visit to Poh Guan Hong (1985) Sdn Bhd, one of Sibu’s established traditional Chinese medicine manufacturers, gave members, friends and family an opportunity to look beyond the finished products and gain first-hand insights into the business, heritage and entrepreneurial values behind a homegrown Sarawak brand.
During the vist, the company’s third-generation person-in-charge, Ting Dao Kang, shared the family business’ journey and provided participants with an inside look at its operations.
Among the company’s best-known products is the traditional stomachache remedy Caj Rusa Sing Kong Chui, which has gained recognition among consumers in Malaysia and has been passed down through generations of users.
Participants were introduced to various aspects of the company’s business operations, including the processes involved in producing its traditional Chinese medicine products.
The visit also offered a rare perspective on the challenges of maintaining a family enterprise across generations, particularly in an increasingly competitive business environment.
Ting shared his experience and perspectives on entrepreneurship, business continuity and the importance of preserving the heritage and values that have shaped Poh Guan Hong throughout its history.
For the participants, the experience provided more than an introduction to a traditional medicine manufacturer. It demonstrated how a local enterprise can preserve its identity while adapting to changing times and continuing to remain relevant to consumers.
JCI Mandarin Sibu president Simon Tiong Yong Yee said the visit was deliberately designed to go beyond a conventional corporate tour.
“We wanted our members and participants to see first-hand how a local business can grow and remain relevant across generations. Poh Guan Hong is a great example of a homegrown Sibu enterprise that has built its reputation through its products, heritage and commitment to its business.”
Tiong added that learning directly from established local entrepreneurs could provide younger people with practical insights that were not always available through textbooks or classroom learning.
The visit also served as a platform for networking, allowing JCI members, friends and family to strengthen their connections while discovering more about one of Sibu’s long-established enterprises.
Participants were also presented with special appreciation gifts by the company as a gesture of gratitude for their participation.
The corporate visit forms part of JCI Mandarin Sibu’s ongoing efforts under its “Reconnect, Recharge and Rise” initiative, which seeks to strengthen community connections, encourage continuous learning and inspire members to explore new opportunities.
Tiong expressed appreciation to the company and Ting for their warm hospitality, generosity and willingness to share their knowledge and experience.
“We hope to organise more corporate visits, community initiatives and learning programmes in the future, connecting members with local businesses and entrepreneurs while fostering entrepreneurship, knowledge-sharing and community development in Sibu.”
