Juniper
The Branding Association of Malaysia (BAM) brought together over 400 leading brand owners, founders, C-suite executives and policymakers at BAM “Ace The New Year 2026”, reaffirming its role as Malaysia’s foremost branding platform. More than an annual gathering, the event serves as a strategic convergence of Malaysia’s branding ecosystem, reflecting business confidence, cross-industry collaboration and the collective ambition to strengthen Malaysian brands for sustainable economic growth.
The Annual Gala Dinner was graced by YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), represented by YBhg. Tuan Samuel Lee, Deputy Director-General of Tourism Malaysia. His presence highlighted the vital role of branding in shaping destination appeal, strengthening tourism competitiveness and supporting Malaysia’s broader economic and business landscape, where strong brands contribute directly to national reputation and international market confidence.
“A strong national tourism brand is built on the strength of its businesses and industries. When Malaysian brands are clear in purpose and consistent in quality, they enhance visitor confidence, strengthen destination appeal and position Malaysia more competitively on the global stage,” said YB Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing.
In her address, BAM President Datin Winnie Loo outline BAM’s vision of branding as a nation-building tool, extending beyond marketing to empower businesses, nurture entrepreneurial resilience and elevate the ‘Malaysian Brand’ internationally.
“The past five years were not ordinary years. We navigated uncertainty, reinvention, digital transformation, economic shifts, and a rapidly evolving marketplace. But what made the difference was not the cards we held — it was how we chose to play them.” said Datin Winnie Loo.
The event is chaired by joint Organising Chairman Dato’ Sri Dr. Vincent Tiew and Dr Jodness Tan, who champions a holistic approach to brand leadership, emphasising that long-term brand success begins with strong values, leadership wellbeing and purposeful growth.
“Sustainable brands are built by leaders who are healthy, focused and values-driven. BAM provides a platform where business performance, personal wellbeing and social contribution are aligned — ensuring that growth is meaningful and lasting,” said Dato’ Sri Dr. Vincent Tiew.
“Our goal for this year’s gala is to transcend the traditional dinner. We want to demonstrate that Malaysian brands are the ‘Aces’ of our economy. Through this event, we are facilitating the exchange of wealth, wisdom, and strategic partnerships that will drive our members to win big in the year ahead,” added Dr Jodness Tan, joint Organising Chairman.
Breaking away from conventional gala formats, BAM Ace The New Year 2026 adopts a Retro Hong Kong ‘God of Gamblers’ theme, symbolising the bold thinking, calculated risk-taking and winning mindset required by entrepreneurs and brand leaders navigating today’s competitive business environment.
A key highlight of the evening is the launch of the BAM Branding Goal Cards, a deck of 52 expert branding principles designed to guide business leaders throughout the year. The cards reflect BAM’s commitment to practical knowledge-sharing while reinforcing the importance of balanced leadership including wellness, captured in one simple reminder: “Have a good rest.”
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, guests stood a chance to win two grand prizes, including RM5,000 in cash and a premium massage chair by Zero worth RM16,999. The evening also featured 10 customised special Chinese New Year fire extinguishers sponsored by Fire Fighter, as well as Best Dressed awards, where 10 elegantly dressed ladies each received a cash prize of RM300.
The event also offers a high-value platform for strategic networking and media engagement, providing access to top-tier business leaders, founders and policy influencers. It reinforces BAM’s ongoing contribution as a connector, educator and advocate, strengthening Malaysia’s branding ecosystem and delivering lasting value to the business community beyond a single annual celebration.
