KUCHING: Ninety-five-year-old Datuk Prof. Dr Lau Siu Wai was honoured with the Sarawak State Outstanding Entrepreneurship Award, the top highlight of this year’s Sarawak Entrepreneur of the Year Awards (EOYS) 2025.
Lau, an esteemed housing developer and education advocate, who had also been recognised in previous EOYS editions, received the award in acknowledgement of his continued entrepreneurial excellence, inspiring leadership and long-standing contribution to the community.
The award was presented during the Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (SCCI) 74th Gala Dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), which was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Renowned for his humility and entrepreneurial resilience, Lau’s entrepreneurial journey has seen both significant triumphs and challenges.
Born in 1931 in China’s Teochew Province to a middle-class family, he moved to Hong Kong in 1946 to study English.
It was reported that Lau’s foray into property development began in 1966 with Miri Housing Development Bhd.
At the same time, he played a pivotal role in establishing the Riam Road Middle School, collaborating with local community leaders.
A notable accomplishment was the completion of 500 housing units in Piasau Garden by his company in 1975.
Meanwhile, five recipients were recognised this year under the Master Entrepreneur category of the EOYS 2025.
They are Jordan Ong Chung Siang of SME Association of Sarawak, Aaron Tay Kok Tung (Kuching Chinese General Chamber of Commerce and Industry), Goh Kim Sim (Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers’ Association), Tommy Raymond Jok (Orang Ulu Chamber of Commerce and Industry), and Chan Mou Kei (Sarawak Chamber of Commerce & Industry).
Organised by the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED) Sarawak in association with SCCI and EY, the EOYS 2025 marks the programme’s 20th anniversary.
Since its launch in 2004, more than 80 entrepreneurs across the state have been recognised for their achievements and contributions to the state’s economic landscape.
The EOYS primarily recognises the individual entrepreneur, highlighting qualities such as outstanding leadership, vision, dedication and intelligent risk-taking.
In previous years, EOYS awardees have also been nominated to represent Sarawak at the EY Entrepreneur of the Year (EOY) Malaysia Awards, a national platform celebrating exceptional Malaysian entrepreneurs.
