Leading the charge in any organization, a CEO holds the reins to steer teams towards shared triumphs and cultivate a hotbed of creativity. At the pinnacle of a company, their role isn't just crucial—it's the secret sauce igniting the journey towards lasting success and trailblazing innovation. Ong HP, Group Executive Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Sunview Group, embodies this ethos of leadership and vision.
Ong's journey into the realm of renewable energy (RE) began during his tenure as a solar designer in a multinational corporation (MNC). Amidst Malaysia's nascent RE industry, Ong encountered skepticism regarding the financial and environmental viability of solar energy. Undeterred, he remained steadfast in his conviction that clean energy would play a vital role in shaping both local and global economies. Let’s hear more from him in this one-on-one interview.
Could you tell us about your academic journey at the University of Malaya? Additionally, what valuable lessons or experiences did you gain outside of the classroom?
During my tenure at the University of Malaya, my final year project involved collaborating with a fellow student to install a stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) tracking system. Although the system faced technical challenges in terms of its hardware and software, this experience ignited my passion for renewable energy, particularly solar energy. Despite setbacks, it became a pivotal moment shaping my career aspirations within the green energy sector. I was fascinated by its potential to not only spur economic growth through job creation but also to mitigate carbon emissions, thus fostering environmental sustainability.
Navigating through practical challenges during the project and thanks to my Professor Nasrudin, my comprehension of solar energy intricacies advanced and solidified my dedication to advocating for sustainable solutions. This academic journey instilled in me a profound commitment to contributing towards a greener future, motivating me to leverage my knowledge and skills for the betterment of society and the environment.
In your role as GCEO, what considerations do you prioritize when formulating successful corporate expansion strategies?
In my role as GCEO, I firmly believe in the power of collaboration and partnership to drive towards a sustainable future and ecosystem. I advocate for leveraging the strengths of both internal teams and external entities to maximize our impact and effectiveness. Crafting effective corporate growth strategies requires a holistic approach that extends beyond mere financial gains. It involves establishing ourselves as a sustainable living partner for all stakeholders, including businesses, consumers, and partners, fostering long-term relationships built on trust and mutual benefit. Innovation, sustainability, and agility are paramount considerations in our strategic planning, ensuring our ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.
By prioritizing these values, we not only aim for organizational growth but also strive to make meaningful contributions to society and the environment, aligning our actions with our vision - 'Hope is Renewable', which is a step towards a better world.
What are your expectations regarding the market's trajectory moving forward?
Malaysia's aggressive decarbonization plans position it as a regional leader, aiming for a 70 percent renewable energy (RE) mix target by 2050. As a sustainable living partner, Sunview anticipates a bustling period ahead, addressing customer needs aligned with these initiatives. The Large- Scale Solar 5 (LSS5) initiative presents a significant avenue for Sunview's growth. Transitioning from a contractor to a developer role will solidify our position in Malaysia's sustainable energy landscape, leveraging over a decade of experience in various capacities.
Additionally, the SolaRIS rebate scheme is a one-time cash rebate where Malaysians can get up to a maximum of RM4,000 when you sign up for solar for home through NEM Rakyat from April 1, 2024. This is poised to expedite the adoption of renewable energy among consumers. While commercial and industrial sectors have shown rapid uptake, residential adoption has been slower due to cost concerns. Initiatives like SolaRIS aim to address this, fostering more widespread acceptance of renewable energy solutions among Malaysian homeowners.
Looking ahead, a rise in battery energy storage systems (BESS) is anticipated, providing reliable means to store energy from RE and then released when power is needed the most. This trend further propels Malaysia towards its goals of sustainability and energy independence.
As a leader myself, I always believe that everyone should know a little bit of everything to succeed. By going out of your comfort zone to engage with different stakeholders & having an open mind, you will make great progress in achieving your goals
Given your extensive professional experience in the industry, what guidance would you offer to emerging industry leaders?
By fostering an open mind, seeking valuable mentorship, and leading with purpose, emerging leaders can navigate challenges and contribute meaningfully to the industry's advancement.
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This article was first published on CEO Insights Asia.
