He always saw issues from a macro point of view and his communications strategy was always about addressing

the individual. W a new P ith rime Minister, Dato Seri Abdullah Haji Ahmad Badawi, taking office in October 2003, he was able to move in tandem with the new aspirations for socio -economic development. Malaysia began to look inward to energise its small and medium enterprises, especially those located

The MessageMan.Malaysian advertising mogul Lim K Wing believes in discipline, not inspiration, ok in deadlines, not flexi-time... up at five,the head of Wings Advertising Agency and a bevy of other marketing communications companies has done three hours work before the staff come in.There are meetings to attend almost every week-day night. And more work to do when he gets home. Lim goes to bed when he falls asleep. Asia Magazine, 1985

in the rural heartland. He focused on the weaknesses of the rural industries and provided the P rime Minister with ideas on moving the rural sector forward. He set up a packaging gallery called Malaysia Branding & Packaging Design Centre, where thousands of ideas on new brand packaging were presented to the Prime Minister for distribution to rural industries that needed to upgrade their branding.

But he felt that the real change for the rural sector can only happen through its younger generation. He set up a campus for rural students to gain new skills in business management, in marketing, inmass communications, in packaging design, in interactive design and a host of other skills they will need to perk up the rural industries and bridge the digital divide that is holding back expansion of the sector .

Tan SriLim has always had a strong vision in place. He has always connected design with wealth creation. He believes in educating people to understand the potential of design in creating new realities in our economies. He has always been clear about what he wants to do here producing a new generation of graduates well equipped for the global environment. Swinburne University of T echnology, Australia, 2004

He called them the Creative and Innovative New Generation.The students have responded well to the new environment proving, once again that given the opportunity young talent will rise to the occasion. This time this new generation w ill be the change the rural sector has been waiting for to move forward and be a part of the national drive to build competitiveness.

He is an unusual entrepreneur, in that he looks beyond the profit margin for satisfaction. He is always interested in novel ways of conducting business and every project must have some kind of social benefit. In advertising he built recognition for local talent, in education he created respect for creative professionals. He has always believed that entrepreneurship comes with social responsibility . For over 30 years he has applied his skills in helping the country achieve its objectives, often simplifying complex policies to bridge the information gap

Tan Sri Lim struck me as a very strategic, observant and intelligent man when I first met him at a promotion campaign. That was more than 14 years ago. Since then, he has been involved in other campaigns. He has contributed a lot to education and media communication. He is a very successful role model for young Malaysians. Datuk Seri Ong Ka T ing Minister of Housing and Local Government, Malaysia, 2003

between government and people. His has been the kind of entrepreneurship that a developing country, like Malaysia, has needed to transform itself into a thriving, prosperous economy. His outstanding entrepreneurial achievements received recognition in 2005 when he was selected from other successful Malaysian entrepreneurs and bestowed the Ernst & Y oung Entrepreneur of the Year Award. In June 2006 he was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the W orld Entrepreneur of the Year event in Monte Carlo.

The Maestro
The mid 80s and early 90s saw him begin a new era as a strategic communicator , becoming one of Asias best. Even now , he continues to use the wealth of his experience, knowledge, creativity and skills to move people, change mindsets, influence the hearts of not just Malaysians but others around the world. Hebuilt his campaigns on meaningful messages, strategically communicated, skillfully using the right media mix. Companies, governments and humanitarian causes found it useful to use his ser vices. In one man they

sourced a strategist, one who was highly creative and most able to put ideas into action. He work ed closely with the Malaysian Government delving into cause marketing and relationship building. He had a tough task in communicating to a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, multilingual society to build cohesiveness and trust. He had the ability to orchestrate and influence people, shape opinions. The Malaysia Inc publication was an outstanding promotion of Malaysias policies to the foreign world. It was a book that had the participation of industry

Crusaders are always in fighting mode and their energy usually comes from emotions like anger, conviction, passion or simply a sense that a cause worth taking up has been ignored for too long. If so, T Sri Dato Lim Kok Wing an is a crusader many times over and many of his battles are fought outside the business arena. Asia 21 magazine, 1998

captains and high-ranking bureaucrats who presented a scenario of public and private sector economic cooperation. He helped to create the Rakan Muda movement aimed at youth development. The concept and philosophy of the movement were adopted by a number of countries. He pulled together a campaign to educate people on inflation with a common target to achieve Zero Inflation. He set out the communication parameters when Kuala Lumpur won the bid to host the 16th Commonwealth Games. When the currency crisis hit the region
Itiswith great pleasure and deep gratitude that Iwrite to thank you and your team for the tremendous contribution you have given to our election campaign. Y untiring our efforts on our behalf have touched the hearts of us all and you have shown true friendship and solidarity with the people of South Africa in our endeavour to transform South Africa into a free, just and democratic count ry. The size and magnitude of your contribution will have a very meaningful impact on the outcome of the election and, on behalf of the people of South Africa, I thank you. Nelson R. Mandela Former President, South Africa, 1994

he put together a campaign to persuade people to show their support for the games to ensure its success. In the end the games was widely acknowledged as the best organised last century. He was specially selected by the former Prime Minister to help South Africa as the country prepared for its first democratic election. His work to help Bosnia Herzegovina rebuild the war -torn country was widely acknowledged as a masterful execution involving a publication, exhibition and website to raise funds.

When the government grew alarmed over the increasing number of young Malaysians starting to smoke, it turned to him to increase the awareness of health hazards attached to tobacco abuse. He set out to do what the earlier campaigns had failed to achieve. He created a vehicle for the government to build its anti-smoking messages. Tak Nak a simple and catchy term in Malay that means Say No was

Tan SriDato Lim has secured an important place for Malaysia within the global communication and design communit y.Hehas made a significant, positive contribution to hiscountry sculture and leadership, one which has been acknowledged by former Prime Minister T Mahathir Mohamad. Tan Sri Dato un Lim has embraced his governments vision for the future of Malaysia as a knowledge economy, driven not by commodity production but by value-added products and services. Prof Ruth Dunkin Vice-Chancellor, RMIT University, 2002

picked up by the general public becoming part of their daily language. He knew the response to the campaign would be encouraging as people wrote in to the papers, expressing their views, schools and social clubs called up asking for promotional materials to conduct anti-smoking lessons, editorials were written and even cartoonists got into the act giving T Nak a touch of ak humour. Tak Nak is today a brand that stands for no smoking.

In another situation when the government wanted to introduce a thermal treatment plant for disposal of waste there was a hue and cry from the public on the safety aspects as well as the costs involved in constructing this plant. He was asked to do some damage control before it escalated into a bigger situation. His strategy was to take the focus away from the thermal treatment plant and instead bring public attention to the source of

We all know that Lim Kok W ing is a pioneer in creative education and that he has tirelessly advocated the need to be able to think outside the box. Long before Malaysians fully understood the term, T Sri Lim knew that an being creative was an asset in a person. He knew about it being able to empower . Dato Hishammuddin bin Tun Hussein Minister of Education (former Minister of Youth and Sports) Malaysia, 2003

the problem as phase one of damage control. Phase 2 was to provide the solution which was the governments waste management recommendations that included sanitary landfills as well as thermal treatment plants. The whole campaign was presented as Malaysia Segar Vision for a clean and green nation. A series of print ads and a television message as well as an information booklet gave people the full story of how bad the trash problem was in K uala Lumpur.

The Designer
Design is vital in the country s push for economic progress. The government was encouraging export to fuel economic growth and design played a major role to give products a competitive edge in the international arena. He had always known this because he began his profession developing brands and building corporate identities. He endeavoured to communicate the central role played by design to a local market of aspiring manufacturers who saw design primarily in artistic terms. The country was progressing rapidly. But it had another rung to climb. It

The name, Lim Kok Wing, conjures awe and reverence in the minds of many. A taskmaster , he executes all with basic ingredients consistency and an absolute commitment to e xcellenc e. A sought-after expert in the field of communications and design, winning more creative awards than any single person in Asia, T Sri Lim has an contributed more towards building industry than anyone else. Malaysian Institute of Directors, 1992

had to be able to produce original, high-quality products in order to gain a reputation that will help the country in developing its own brand of products. He was one of the few people in the country who could see the future the government was trying to build. And this perhaps explains why he has been able to conceptualise and visualise so successfully for the projects that he has been entrusted with. He work ed with the Ministry of International T rade and Industry to promote Malaysian Branding overseas. He put the design factor in place when K uala Lumpur began to

change into a global city. He devised the Information Design for the first electric train, the international airport and the light rail transit system. The corporatisation of many companies also saw him involved in creating Corporate Identities that gave the entities a sophisticated look befitting their new status. He took steps to establish the Malaysia Design T echnology Centre, an organisation completely devoted to design unparalleled in its concept. It was created to be a regional hub for design. Infact itwill be a fully integrated centre, the only one of its kind in the world. From museums that showcase outstanding product designs to exhibition centres devoted to the

display of rubber , plastic, and timber products as well as studios, training centres and ser vice clusters that incubate idea generation, the centre will interact with the global community of designers. Ultimately his aim is to evoke design consciousness among Malaysians. He wants to create a love forquality and good design that will have a spin-off effect on products and ser vices developed in this country. Thisconcern also led to the establishment of a school to nurture a new generation of designers who will have the right training and who will have the skills of new media that will enable the country to reach a higher level in its aspiration to be able to create and innovate.

I had a mission running the Commonwealth Games and here was someone who was full of ideas, insight and assistance in so many areas. He spent a lot of his own time and money on the work he did for the Games and I know that he did it because he believed in what we were doing. He did it as a national contribution. (RTD) General Tan Sri Hashim Ali Executive Chairman Sukom 98 Organising Committee KL 98 XVI Commonwealth Games, 2000

The Educationist
His involvement in education not only created a new chapter inhis life but set trends in the sector.He entered the world of education desiring to impart the value of his experience to a young generation. Upon making his entry he found a challenge waiting. Ashe had done with the advertising business he made it his missionto provide education that would bring recognition and raise the value of the profession. He brought the world into the classroom through smart partnerships with some of the worlds most established and reputable universities and colleges.

Limkokwing is in the forefront of innovative education. Now, in its strategic collaboration with Malaysia Design Innovation Centre at its new campus, Limkokwing enables its students to learn to work on real-life projects with industry even while they study. This unique industry-academia partnership will help strengthen the governments efforts to develop human ability and intellect, and produce knowledge workers who can rise to meet this centurys challenges. Dato Haji Shafie Haji Mohd Salleh Former Minister of Higher Education, 2004

He is driven by a concern for the next generation and his emphasis on creativity as a competitive edge is now receiving its due recognition after a decade of championing its value to business and life. He changed mindsets helping people to grasp the elusive concept of creativity and thus enabling young people to convince their parents of building careers in creative professions. With the country transiting into a period where knowledge decides the strength of a nations economy , the 90s spent in inculcating the value of creativity is benefiting Malaysia tremendously.

Already there are graduates from his school who are contributing to the countrys transformation into a k-economy. These are graduates of the Limkokwing University College Of Creative Technology, a market leader now building a strong global presence. The university provides pathways into careers in design, communications and architecture through smart partnerships with more than 170 Universities and Colleges in Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The Universitys student population is a mini United Nations with students from more than 130 countries. The Limkokwing Executive Leadership College is a more

business-oriented entity focusing on e-business to prepare a new generation for the new mode of global transactions where the computer plays a central role. Wings Of Creativity completes his intention to cultivate creativity in everyone. While his other institutes provide avenues for higher learning Wings of Creativity looks at the child to develop critical and creative thinking skills. W ings is a unique establishment that provides a curriculum to develop the whole child to enable this young generation to become more articulate, able to solve problems and grow up confident in its abilities.

Tan Sri Lim K Wing is a legendary character ok who wields a painter s brush to produce gorgeous colours at his campus. From the early start, the cartoonist turned entrepreneur had planned the university carefully. Creativity is his foundation and strategy. Oriental Daily News, 2005

He is a forward thinking-person and he applies this mindset to everything. The campus for his University, for example, houses a wide range of businesses, all of which are created as brands for his students to gain realworld experiences. He has created a Wings Caf, a lifestyle coffee caf, Fitofly,a fitness centre, Makanlah, an alfresco eatery , Centrefold , a fashion boutique, Making Headlines, a hair design salon, a Sound and Music Design Academy and a Film & TV Academy to groom budding directors and producers. These brands were created from scratch giving students valuable experiences in understanding

how their skills have to merge to produce the brand identity and its communications to market the products and the ser vices. The campus has an extended learning centre called The Limkokwing International Lifestyle Design Academy where students and others can pick up skills in hair design, music design and other short courses to boost the programmes they are studying on campus. He feels it is important for students to get learning that will boost their confidence and these additional skills will give them the edge when they graduate.

The name, Lim KokWing, has long been a synonym for excellence in design and innovation. I am, therefore, delighted that it will now be borne by the Limkokwing University College of Creative Technology. This new institution will be a major , addition to Malaysias tertiary education sector strengthening yet further the country s position as a regional centre of educational excellence. H.E. Mr Bruce Cleghorn British High Commissioner to Malaysia, 2004

His concept of Industry -WithinUniversity extends the idea of practical training that students undergo inmost universities. This concept brings industry directly into the campus where real projects are implemented. His strategy is to get industry professionals to work with students on these projects. He feels that young people have fresh new perspectives that can be marketed. This philosophy has made a distinct difference in a way that is revolutionary.

Tan Sri Lim, through his dynamic leadership and entrepreneurship, has built Limkokwing to what it is today a university of creative ideas that has drawn students from all over the world. They come to these shores and take back dynamic ideas to shape their industries and economies. NAPEI hopes that Tan Sri Lim will continue to inspire his team at Limkokwing to scale greater heights of achievement and acclaim to make itan organisation to be emulated, not only in this country but throughout the developing world. Dr Hj. Mohamed Thalha President, National Association of Private Educational Institutions 2004

Even established universities are learning the benefits of adopting similar programmes. They agree that the responsibility of an educationist goes beyond just providing the learning that gets a student his or her degree to begin a career . His Executive Leadership College trains students the same way a company trains its executives. His approach is changing how educationists look at learning.

More recently he has introduced the concept of the Global Classroom where students can transfer to as many countries as they can to experience the culture of different campuses. Working in collaboration with his Global Consortium of P artner Universities he has enabled cross-border transfers that will develop the global graduate. He sees this as a great opportunity to build cultural appreciation and understanding in the next generation which will benefit

In Limkokwing, we have found a strategic partner, an equal partner indeveloping new ideas. I believe that, with the collaboration, we will become trendsetters for a lot of leaders in Europe and the US. The partnership will allow us to be in contact with the next generation of Asia. Together, we hope to create a new-concept creativity school. Dr Dirk Craen, President, European University, 2006

the world in the years to come. Butof immediate benefit to the student is a unique learning experience. The Global Classroom concept grew out of his own initiatives to export degree and diploma programmes developed in Malaysia that are delivered in cities around the world. Already more than 30 cities deliver Limkokwing programmes. What has made these programmes attractive is the flexibility and the industry relevance of the courses.

The Publisher
His publishing efforts were strategic to the campaigns he orchestrated. In any case he had a love for the printed matter. He became an extraordinary publisher because his involvement in every word and every page began from conceptualisation and ended at printing. Being highly creative he had a fascination for typography. He saw more

His work on the ANC campaign in South Africa reveals the high standard.They were well beyond international standards . I personally liked the picture of Mandela surrounded by children . Ithought that was marvellous.The people of SouthAfrica have a lot of praise for him. He is also a very daring, very brave man. I found him to be very innovative and highly creative a breath of fresh air. Like me he is a great believer in human resource. I see him now as a mover of education for human resource development and I think he has done very well inthat respect. T Sri Dr Muhammad Ghazalie Shafie an Former Minister of Home Affairs, Malaysia Commonwealth Observer for South Africas First Elections, 2000

than just the message he wanted to preser ve and to communicate. He saw the visual impact as well. Every book that he has published is an outstanding example of message delivered in sophisticated form. Malaysia Incorporated showcased the unique public- and private-sector cooperation that was the catalyst to the remarkable growth of its economy in the late 80s till the mid 90s.

Bosnia Herzegovina Beyond W ords Beyond Tears complemented the government s stance to the world to help re-build this war -torn nation. Green Horizon was a cover -to -cover visual presentation of rainforest richness to counter misconceptions about Malaysias forest management. Hidden Agenda, Currency T urmoil and New V oice Of Asia explained

On behalf of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina and my own behalf Iwould like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support to Bosnia and Herzegovina and its people. Your noble endeavours in promoting the Global Humanitarian Appeal for Bosnia and Herzegovina represent an important contribution to the process of strengthening the peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The book, written with warmth and concern for the plight of fellow human beings, is a strong warning to the world that such tragedy must not be repeated ever again in any part of the world. Dr Haris Silajdzic Co-Chairman, Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, 1998

Malaysias reasons for its unorthodox reaction to protect its currency from being exploited in the world market. The publications gave the world Asian viewpoints on issues that were distorted by the western-dominated media. Healso annually produces a publication Education In Malaysia that promotes Malaysia throughout the world as a regional education hub.

He is a publisher who does not view it as just a business. He understands the impact of both font and visuals. He gets deeply involved in the visualisation of a project and in its page-by-page execution. Inspiring Putrajaya, Worlds First Intelligent Garden City was a book that he worked closely with both photographer and designer to ensure the stunning landscape of the

Dato Lim Kok Wing is a perfectionist. This is a strong element in his character that colours all his actions. He surrounds himself with talented people and exacts the best out of them. He expects the same from everything that he touches. He envisions only the best, not only for the industry he works in but the country that he lives in. Asia 21 magazine, 1998

place was captured and clearly delivered. Limkokwing Creativity, A Showcase of Creativity in Branding isamong the rarest books you can find on the creative aspect of Malaysia. He spent more than five years putting this book together because it encapsulated most of his best work in creating corporate identity, in creating meaningful campaigns and in revolutionising education.

While there were many magazines devoted to lifestyle and business, he felt what was lacking was one focused on leadership. He produced the first Leadership magazine in December 2005, a collaborative effort between the Malaysian Institute of Directors and the Limkokwing Executive Leadership College. The effort was

Kok Wing has odd ways of doing things but the bottom line is he produces results in whatever he does. The country needs people like him. T his ake college of creative technology . I think his aim there is not so much money -making, but by establishing all these links abroad, he is promoting the country. Tan Sri Mohamad Khir Johari Former President, Malaysian Institute Of Directors, 1995

applauded by the business community who felt the magazine contributed to build corporate governance. The magazine is focused on issues related to corporate governance, brand development, the impact of innovation and others connected with Malaysias economic potential and private-sector competitiveness.

The Philanthropist
His humble background made him the ideal giver , and all through his life he has supported all charities and a multitude of causes homeless, spastics, blind, heart disease, HIV, drug addicts and cancer victims. His work with the Malaysian Red Crescent Society is well-known. He was its V ice-Chairman and the international Adviser to the World Red Cross Society. He is not content with giving in cash but donates his time and his abilities as well. All through his working life he has found time to

The multi-talented Dato Lim he is an artist, cartoonist, journalist and an internationally acclaimed ad-man has a soft spot for the unfortunate. He has probably raised as many millions for charity as he has made selling his brilliant advertising ideas. What is so admirable about this man is that his own humble past has made him very sensitive to the suffering of others. Malaysian Tatler, 1994

organise international campaigns to gain support for the movement. He uses his creativity to draw the crowd and reach their hearts. He devises campaigns, designs identities and sponsors videos to communicate his message. He produced The Trap an anti-drug filmlet which was presented at a world conference by Tun Dr Mahathir. It was voted one of the top ten public service films in a worldwide competition in New Y The filmcarried a universal ork. message and it was made available to other countries to help them counter their own drug problems.

He also produced Take The F irst Step for the W orld R Cross Peace ed Conference which was screened worldwide to promote world peace. Another effort called Ceasefire 89 was used worldwide as part of an international campaign against nuclear build-up. He established the Society for the Severely Mentally Handicapped to help those with multiple handicaps who were rejected by the normal charities. He helped to form an association to help senior citizens. His Foundation for His efforts in charity have been the subject of glowing eulogies in the media, of a philanthropist replete with benevolence. Indeed, Lim has probably gathered more feathers than could fit into one cap. That could explain the many hats he wears . The Edge, 1995

Creative Excellence supports talented individuals especially those who are physically challenged to pursue qualifications in creative programmes. He has been helping people for more than 35 years. Sometimes his contributions are made directly to individuals who need help in operations, in their studies or overcome other mishaps. Sometimes he turns counsellor when people bring their personal problems and turn to him for advice. This part of his life will stay forever , changing shape according to needs and demands of community .

The Citizen
He moves with the country. He shares its aspirations. He desires the same results. Heassists where he can. Right from day one he has seen the potential of Malaysians and has always championed the Malaysian ability to perform. His cartoons are very telling as they always portray racial harmony. When the economy was booming he helped to build bridges putting across He is a person who is very mindful of the affairs of the country. He is someone who thinks deeply and is able to articulate his thinking and his visions clearly. He acts in earnest to play his part as a corporate citizen and he feels he has a lot to contribute because he feels there is so much lack of knowledge. Tan Sri W ong Kum Choon Chairman, Malaysian Rubber Export Promotion Council, 2000

Malaysian perspectives through publications such as Malaysia Incorporatedand the Green Horizon . He participated in the transformation as the country grew in sophistication. He assisted to put Malaysia in the right perspective, especially during the times when the country suffered from the bad publicity by the foreign media. In all his communication campaigns he always considered the impact on the country and its people. He felt a

oneness with the country that can only be interpreted as patriotism. During the crisis that began in 1997 he was greatly concerned about the toll the troubles would have on national stability and tolerance of the people. He produced campaigns such as the One Heart One Nation campaign to r emind people of the unique way of

Tan Sri Professor Lim Kok Wing is giving the lead in education to transformational leadership. He more than qualifies for our original specification of a dangerous man - with vision he makes come true - both a new vision and a global vision. We have seen a prodigious output, in terms of the scope and versatility of his activities, born of enthusiasm and enterprise, both commercial and artistic. These owe much to a rare combination, that of artist and entrepreneur. Datuk Dr Pa ddy Bowie, OBE Honarary Professor, Thames Valley U niversity, 2007

life we shared. His Malaysia Boleh (Malaysia Can in Malay) was to inculcate a spirit of can do and that we are as good as anyone in the world. In the darkest hours of the currency crisis when economies around us were toppling and clashes were erupting he produced a series of documentaries intended to calm the people.

T h e Father

His concern for the country stems from a personal responsibility as a father. He has two children a son and a daughter . And from this perspective he is able to look ahead and share the same concern that other parents have. He wants his children to inherit a better future and he will do all he can to make it so. His work on charity, his youth development campaign, his

He believes completely in the country's capabilities, in the potential of the next generation. Everyday he strives to instil the will to succeed and develop the potential of those around him. Hismission was borne out of his own ability to meet challenges with a conviction and passion rarely seen elsewhere. Lim Kok W Junior, 2006 ing

involvement in education are influenced by the importance he places on the future. He is widely travelled. He has seen the havoc disunity can do to a country from his personal experience during the V oter Education Exercise in South Africa. As a man born in the healing years of World W II the element runs ar strongly through his veins. In the end he is a healer at heart.

The Time T raveller

Through the arts and crafts of bygone eras he engages his mind and travels back in time. He enjoys the art, especially Asian art. He relishes in the antique. He surrounds himself with its beauty . Unlike others who invest in the art and artifacts of ancient times, he buys them out of sheer love. Every nook and every cranny, every corridor and passageway of his house and office will make a visitor stop for a few moments of study. My dad is never going to realise how much of an influence he has over the people around him, or the countless others he hasnt even met yet. Ive seen the look of respect, of admiration they look at him with. V few people speak when ery hes around, hoping hell say more, allowing themselves to be as absorbent as they can to everything he teaches. The depth of his vision is overwhelming, the word is inspirational. Tiffanee Marie Lim, 2006

He plays a vital role in the country to promote and preser ve the arts and crafts of the different ethnic groups. He adopted a heritage building Loke Mansion to help preserve the unique architecture. He coined the word Artiquarium a play on the word art and antique for the building and turned it into an art and antique gallery to give purpose to the building and opportunity for people to visit the place. He invite d Tun Dr Mahathir an art and craft

enthusias t himself to officially launch the gallery , which soon became a popular place of visit by most foreign dignitaries as well as tourists. Heis a trustee with the National Art Galleryand was a board member of the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation for many years. He has mooted the Art & Design CentreOf Kuala Lumpur to provide

He is a man of seemingly boundless energy, with a love for the antiquarian, the rare and the beautiful... the art and artifact gallery fulfils a long-term ambition of his to set up such an oasis of rare objects. Dato Lims aim is to provide the artisticcommunity with a centre, a forum and exhibition space to foster the growth and development of art. The Star, 1991

avenues for people to enjoy art in its various forms and activities. The centre is being designed to be a nucleus for anyone wanting to teach or to learn modern, traditional arts and crafts and at the same time those wanting to pick up isolated skills in computer technology will find a less pressured, more affordable way to gain them.

He set up a Batik Research Centre within his University and the result of the research was showcased at the K uala Lumpur International Batik Conference in an exhibition called The Journey of Batik. It w as a presentation that had never before been captured in such detail. The journey was not only displayed in pictures but presented in video and book.

It would not be incorrect to say the world of advertising and creativity in Malaysia would be inconceivable without the presence of T Sri an Lim.Like the fabled Colossus, he has straddled two worlds the world of advertising and the world of education, and Malaysia is so much richer for that. Passions magazine , 2006

When the government looked seriously into promoting the arts and preserving cultural heritage he came up with the idea of a celebration that would gather the top cultural artistes in the country for an annual showcase that would provided meaningful experiences to both Malaysians and foreign visitors. The Kuala Lumpur Festival is now celebrated every July.

The P eace-maker
All through his life he was never comfortable with conflicts. He always sought other more peacful solutions, sometimes going out of his way to avoid confrontation. This abhorrence for violence is woven into the fabric of his life. It shows in the work he does for the country.

or she was not favoured by the superpowers who had indirect control of other similar awards given by other organisations around the world. Tan Sri Lim is of the view that true peace means every one can live in peace. He said that the absence of war does not necessarily mean peace. Peace to him means the lives and rights of people are protected. He said that very of ten war results in the worsening of the quality of life followed by hunger , poverty and other problems. Because of these crises,he does not agree that war is the answer to peace. Nanyang Siang Pau newspaper, 2003

Giving voice to Asia

He felt very strongly that a global media controlled by the W did not est understand the sensitivities or the intricacies that related to all things Asian. He began to publish and distribute the magazine, New V oice of Asia, his endeavour to provide an Asian perspective into the current affairs and rapidly changing socioeconomic landscape of the region.

A peace award from Malaysia

As an advocate for peace he initiated an annual peace conference hosted by Malaysia. The highlight of the conference was to bestow a peace award on a deserving person, someone who would have been bypassed because he

He lent what support he could to peace efforts by others. F the or Malaysians for P eace movement in 2003he helped build awareness of the devastation of war through newspaper and television messages as well as a special exhibition created by students titled The Conflict of W in the ar 20th Century. The television message was also created by students which focused on the P alestinian issue. It was called Plight of the P alestinians, A Nation Denied A Homeland.

Itis unusual to come across a creative talent who also possesses a commercial mind. T Sri an Limnot only demonstrates inventive ingenuity but also is able to carry through his ideas and make them sound business successes. I know Tan Sri Lim is passionate to design a world car. We at Lotus will give him our fullest support. Mr Kelvin Algood Managing Director of Lotus Engineering, Malaysia, 2001

For the Perdana Global Peace Forum of 2005 he attempted to recreate a War Zone Experience using horrifying images of children and civilians who fell victim to bombs and other attacks. These were images almost never seen as they were too unpleasant for publication. He wanted people to see the images to understand that war was an ugly experience and that peace by diplomacy and negotiation provided the only solution.

The Brand Strategist

He has spent the best part of his life brand positioning the country of his birth. In promotions for tourism, education and foreign investment. He takes personal interest in all endeavours and that makes the difference.

Malaysian capability in building a local brand to international status.

Building Malaysian Competitiveness

A perfectionist, he is meticulous in choice of words and matching of visuals in all the work produced, both print and electronic mediums, to promote the country overseas. Heis insistent that care must be taken to present the right picture of the country to foreigners. But he also knows that the quality has to be built from the domestic front.And that is why he has pushed hard to set up the Malaysia Design Innovation Centre, an idea mooted by T un Dr Mahathir. Heis tasked to ensure MDI succeeds and

From College To University In Just 12 Y ears

Evidence of his ability to develop a brand can best be ascertained from the work he has created with his pet passion - the Limkokwing Institute of Creative T echnology . He established it in 1991 and in just 12 years he nurtured it to university status. The Limkokwing University Of Creative T echnology is a wonderful saga of

The impressive showing of Limkokwing students who have achieved national and international recognition for their accomplishments is testimony of the entrepreneurial spirit and foresight of the university s founder, T Sri Lim Kok Wing. an Tan Sri Lim has the will to turn students into professionals with specific skills to address the future needs of our country . Dato Mustapa Mohamad Minister of Higher Education, 2001

he finds himself engulfed with an ambitious agenda that goes into the depths of brand development, brand promotion, human skills empowerment, research and development as well as design incubation and content creation of a level never attempted inthis country or elsewhere. MDI is about laying the foundation to ensure Malaysias competitiveness in the future. It maps a convoluted route that seeks to develop almost every aspect of the socio -economic sectors of the nation.

Incubating Content
A lesser person would have balked at the responsibility, but he plods

The country recognises T Sri Lims strong an sense of commitment and concern for youth development. His contribution to the Rakan Muda programme, which invites youth to participate in self-development activities, iswell appreciated by the Government. Here is aman so full of creative energy and innovative ideas. I know he really wants to see our youths take to the sky, and he works hard at it. Dato Hishammuddin bin Tun Hussein Minister of Education, 2001

on, first enlightening the corporate sector of the aspirations that will eventually assist them in elevating their business a notch higher . He also talks to the small- and medium-sized industries of how the centre will be equipped to raise the quality of their products and help them incubate new ideas. He travels widely presenting the concept of the centre to other nations. The presentations are very contrasting because his audience ranges from established design centres in advanced countries to governments of young economies.

Building Global Branding

As the world shifted to branding as a business strategy he relayed its importance to the small- and medium sized entrepreneurs persuading them to invest in building their brands instead of indulging in contract manufacturing. As a means of encouragement he created the National Award

Throughout T SriLimsyears of service, he an has worked selflessly to harness public support for humanitarian causes, winning their hearts and minds, getting them to understand, accept and appreciate him. Datuk Ruby Lee Former Secretary General Malaysian Red Crescent 2002

for Creativity and Innovation to recognise those pioneering companies that had successfully created their own brands. They received their awards from the Prime Minister in a special ceremony that he created. He hoped their success would help others see merit in emulating the strategies these companies had undertaken.

Building National Identity

Knowing that the world would understand the country better if the changes were made within the country he convinced the government to be consistent in the imagery it adopts right across its various socio economic sectors. He began to build this awareness through the use of the

An industry legend, Tan Sri Lim is a communicatio n strategist whose name is synonymous with the creative industry. From advertising, design, brand development, multimedia, publishing, media international relations, government relations, strategic corporate communication, his achievements and contributions to the industry and the country make up a list that will probably take time to enumerate. Shahar Noor President, Malaysian Advertisers Association, 2003

tiger stripes as the identity for the country. The use of the tiger stripes was first adopted into the National Service uniform for school leavers enlisted into military-type boot camps. The tiger stripes later emerged as the style for the national sports contingent when it took part in the SEA Games and Commonwealth Games in 2005.

When Malaysia won the rights to host the World Congress on Information Technology for 2008 (WCIT) he pitched in to provide a positioning for the branding of the event. He pegged it to the words, Enable,Empower,Enrich, to support the theme of Bridging the Global Digital Divide in creative and knowledge content. He also provided a design theme and quickly produced a video to promote Malaysia and the hosting of the event. Thisproved useful when the organisers rushed to attend the WCIT 2006 event in T exas, USA, for the handover ceremony .

Tan Sri Limkokwing was one of those who came here, not to seek fame, or other benefits, but in a very humble way to work with us to make sure that the people who sacrificed so much for the freedom of this country would usher in a new government that would be led by Nelson Mandela and the team that he was going to select. Dr P opo Molefe Former Premier of Northwest Province, South Africa, 2008

In the same way when his help was solicited in the hosting of the World Halal Forum 2006 he strategised to position Malaysia as a global hub for the fast-rising Halal business. Halal is an Islamic set of standards for quality preparation of food and other items. He created an opening video for the conference, first positioning Halal as an emerging force in global business and setting the agenda for the conference by rallying participants to arrive at a consensus for a universal certification of Halalto be adopted worldwide.

Globalising Malaysian Education

In2006he took a bold step inreversing the process where most tertiary institutions were bringing foreign students to enroll in Malaysia. While others jostled in a small pool, he simply stepped out to face the world. And by doing so, he changed the game and he changed the rules. He decided to take his University across the world to foreign shores. And the first campus he set up was in Botswana in Africa. The Botswana Government was taken aback because no foreign university had

I am, indeed, greatly encouraged by Lim Ko k Wings involvement in Botswana.Ihave heard it said that ordinary leaders direct, great leaders instruct, but the greatest of leaders inspire. Our young people here are so inspired,itisimpressive. H.E. Mr F estus G.Mogae President, Republic of Botswana, Launching of Limkokwing University Botswana, 2007

thought of working with them to build their human capital. Malaysias first off-shore full fledged university opened in the capital city of Gaborone in May 2007,with no less than the President of Botswana, H the Hon. F .E. estus Mogae, officiating its establishment. This was unprecedented, as it clearly indicated the high regards that this diamond-exporting country had for Malaysia, and for this University. In just over a year, since he set up the University, he expanded to establish two more campuses in Botswana.

Following the success of the Botswana campus other African nations, such as Lesotho and Swaziland, have invited him to set up campuses in their countries. In August 2008 Limkokwing opened its first campus in Lesotho, in the capital city of Maseru. His impact upon young Africans has to be seen to be believed. In one visit to Botswana they reached out to touch him, screaming in excite ment as if he was a movie or rock star. It revealed the thirst young

All Basotho are greatly indebted to Professor Emeritus T Sri Dat Dr Lim Kok Wing, President an . and F ounder of Limkokwing University- the Global University,for this world-class institution. We are very happy that this university is now among us to provide 21st century learning environment that will develop this corps of smart, creative and techno-savvy graduates. H.E. P akalitha Bethuel Mosisili, MP Prime Minister Kingdom of Lesotho, , Launching of Limkokwing University Lesotho, 2008

Africans have for a chance to unlock their creative potential. Already there are role models among them who have risen to the challenge thrown by him to turn their creativity into tangible products. Thishas resulted in five books written by young Batswana. A fashion design student has gone on to win a prestigious industry award and there are many members of the Universitysalumni who have set up their own businesses producing content using new mediatechnology .

The setting up of a campus in London, in the heart of Piccadilly was a move that surprised many. In October 2007 the campus was officially opened by the Malaysian P rime Minister, YAB Dato Seri Abdullah HajiAhmad Badawi who diverted his trip from New Y just to be ork in London, specifically for the occasion. Inthe United Kingdom the setting up of Limkokwing University has stirred the British to rethink their education policies. They are waking up to the dynamics of globalisation because Limkokwing University is the first

from the Commonwealth to set up a campus in the country. The only other foreign university is American. Malaysiaand the world should indeed by very proud of T Sri Lim Kok Wing, President of the an Limkokwing University for his enlightenment, vision and wisdom; for this great entrepreneur , who has made things happen and continues to make things happen in the interest of a better humanity. Sir James R. Macham, KBE Founding President Republic o f Seychelles, 2008 The T imes Higher Education Supplement in UK singled out his move as a wak e-up call to British universities that they should hire more from abroad to maintain their worldwide reputation for excellence. Officials taking part in the British Councils Going Global conference in 2007, noted that the Limkokwing London campus was a sign of the times of the harsh realities of globalisation.

His arrival at Londons doorstep is integral to his strategy of Merging the Best of East and W to provide a est balanced learning experience for his students. He feels very strongly about creating a new generation of youths who are able to appreciate the unique cultures of both sides of the world. He has often said how knowing only one side of the worl d is akin to seeing only half a picture. To truly understand the global situation he touts the Western experience to Asian students while

Icongratulate Limkokwing for breaking down barriers and pushing back the frontiers of international education. If international educators are to produce leaders for the 21st c entur y, institutions of higher education must follow the lead of T Sri Limkokwing and equip an students both on and off the campus with the tools they need to be effective world citizens. Maurice Dimmock Chief Executive, Accreditation Service for International Colleges (ASIC), United Kingdom, 2008

encouraging those in the W to est spend some time in the East. He has dovetailed the East-W est experience into his Global Classroom programme that enables his students to travel across the world where he has campuses in seven countries in three continents to conduct their research as part of their assignments or projects. He has created affordable pathways enabling entire classrooms of students to gain this valuable experience.

Ashis knowledge of the world grew he began to understand its needs better. While he work ed to develop African skills and knowledge he knew many countries in Asia needed to grow , too. He then turned his attention to IndoChina where he set up a campus in Phnom P Cambodia before forging enh, a strategic partnership with two of Chinas elite institutions T singhua University and Peking University as part of his plan to be the bridge for

the flow of knowledge between the East and the W est. Limkokwing is globally identified for the unique philosophy of merging the best of Eastand West. This is something that young Cambodians will need as the country interacts with the global economy. H.E. Samdech Akka Moha Sena P adei Teco Hun Sen Prime Minister, K ingdom of Cambodia, 2008 Hecontinues to expand with plans to set up more campuses in Africa and he has started to move into the United States to base his operations in New York. InAsia he will open another campus in Bali,Indonesia. Hesteers his global operations through his main campus in Malaysia where he continues to receive students from all corners of the world. W orldwide he has

over 25,000 students from 144 countries pursuing their higher education. His enormous energy now even permeates through the website which has become one of the most popular university websites in the world. It receives between two to three million hits a month. People from 188 countries constantly visit the campus website and to date it has had more than 60 million hits.

Dr Lim Kok Wing himself had the vision to see the need where none existed. The passion to do things never been done before, and the tenacity to push things forward to translate ideas into reality. Ahmed Kathrada Chairman, Nelson Mandela Foundation Johannesburg, South Africa, 2008

His unique approach to education has attracted organisations around the world such as the W orld Bank which has expressed interest in the Universitys emphasis on industry relevancy of student learning while UNESCO singled out his University as an exemplary institution for research and knowledge management at a forum on higher education.

The Global Trailblazer

His journey continues, taking him to new horizons as he impresses upon the global academic community his concerns about education. He has addressed these concerns through his University that engages young people using innovative approaches. He feels the traditional ways are out of sync with the pressures and demands of todays lifestyle. He feels there are many gaps between the young and the systems used by governments all over the world. He professes that we cannot live life today with the methods that worked in the last century and life must be viewed in the present time with an eye on the future.

Knowledge powers human innovation. If every country in the world exchanges cultural understanding the new knowledge that unfolds will be explosive. This co-operation between Tsinghua University and Limkokwing University is the beginning of academic exchanges that will play a very significant role in the promotion of our future development. I believe that more students will achieve excellence through this university. Professor Lu Xinhua Vice President, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China, 2008

He has been applauded and accorded many awards from all over the world for his visionary leadership. These include the V isionary Leadership in Innovative Education Award from New York. The Moscow Academy of the State and Municipal Management, Russia conferred upon him P rofessorship, a first for a Malaysian. He was bestowed the title Asias Most Creative Thinker and Persona lity by the Deputy Lord Mayor of the City of W estminster in London. He was honoured with the Mentor Entrepreneur Of The Y ear Award by SMI and SME W orldwide Network at its third Business of the Year 2007Awards.

Tan Sri Dato Lim K W is presently ok ing President/ Chairman/ Adviser/ F ellow/ Member/ T rustee of: Limkokwing University Of Creative Technology Limkokwing Executive Leadership College Limkokwing Global Alliance Limkokwing F oundation For Creative Excellence Limkokwing Institute F T or omorrow Limkokwing Sound & Music Design Academy Limkokwing Lifestyle Design Academy Limkokwing F & Television Academy ilm The Asia Creativity Institute K-Economy Enabling Institute Centre F Content Creation or Public Opinion & P erception Research International House

Across the world, inspirational university leaders are in very short supply . From my very first visit to Limkokwing in KL it was clear that at its helm is an amazing brain, namely that of Professor Tan Sri Limkokwing. He has inspired change in his University, his own country and in many other countries. Professor Dr Michael Thorne Vice-Chancellor, Anglia Ruskin University, UK, 2007

Malaysia Design Innovation Centre Council F Effective Communications or Malaysian Institute Of Directors Malaysian Education Promotion Council Council for Effective Communications Malaysia Branding & Packaging Design Institute Malaysian World Peace Foundation Malaysian Content Creation Council Malaysian American Society National Creativity& Innovation Institute National Innovation Council National Higher Education Council Malaysian Arts & Culture Council Malaysia Design Creativity Centre Think Malaysia, UK Designers & Animators Guild Malaysia & UK Imperial Academy of London, UK

Limkokwing University of Creative Technology United Kingdom Botswana Lesotho China Cambodia Indonesia www .limkokwing.edu.my

Malaysia