MALAYSIAN conglomerate and Bursa Malaysia’s main market-listed company, Texchem Resources Berhad (Texchem) celebrated its 50th anniversary today with a grand dinner at the Eastern & Oriental (E&O) Hotel.
The event was graced by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Takahashi Katsuhiko and Texchem executive chairman Tan Sri Dr Fumihiko Konishi.
Headquartered in Penang, Texchem was founded in 1973 as a textile chemical trader before transforming into a Malaysian conglomerate with five core business divisions, namely industrial, polymer engineering, food, restaurant and venture business.
Notably, Texchem is the founder and operator of Sushi King, Malaysia’s largest halal Japanese chain of restaurants with 128 outlets nationwide, supported by its integrated supply chain. Other restaurant brands under Texchem include Hoshino Coffee, Doutor Coffee and Miraku.
Dr Fumihiko, in his speech, said the company’s journey through half a century has been about embracing change and continuously striving for excellence.
“As we celebrate our 50-year heritage, it is the road ahead that excites us the most. We renew our commitment to growth, with a particular emphasis on environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) principles, ensuring our competitive edge and sustainability for the future.
“While we anticipate a challenging business environment, we remain positive about Texchem’s long-term prospects.
“We have experienced a rebound from the high-tech sector, particularly semiconductors, which we hope to sustain in 2024,” he said.
According to Dr Fumihiko, the company also will continue to invest in capital expenditure to enhance its capacity and capabilities despite the demanding landscape.
“This is to ready ourselves to seize the opportunities and ride on the recovery of the sectors we serve,” he said.
Dr Fumihiko added that Texchem will continue to build on the solid fundamentals and strong foundation across all its key business divisions.
“Having a diversified business and revenue stream enables us to manoeuvre past the headwinds and various business cycles.
“We are confident to weather through the challenges and emerge stronger than before as we charge towards the next 50 years for Texchem,” he said.
Chow, in his keynote address, congratulated Texchem for reaching the remarkable milestone.
He said since the company’s establishment in 1973, Texchem has achieved significant international milestones under Dr Fumihiko’s leadership.
Texchem, which began as a textile chemical trader, has grown into a Malaysian multinational conglomerate with over 37 companies.
“I am also deeply aware that Dr Fumihiko’s efforts not only revolve around Texchem’s business but also have a deep commitment to the community, including fostering ties between Penang and Japan by establishing the Penang Japanese Association.
“Hence, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Dr Fumihiko, for your unwavering commitment towards maintaining and strengthening relationships between Penang and Japan.
“May Texchem continue to strive for excellence with even greater success, embodying its tagline, ‘Together We Shine.’ I look forward to the continued partnership with Texchem, while the state advances towards becoming an inspiration for the nation,” Chow concluded.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix and video Siti Nuratikah Rahmat