Building Futures: SHE Award 2025, A Grand Celebration of Her Power

12 November 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The ShangHai Honourable Women Entrepreneur Business Award (SHE) 2025, organised by ShangHai Business Media, was held in a dazzling gala at the Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, honouring the resilience, courage, and compassion of women shaping Malaysia’s business and social landscape.

Coinciding with Pink October, a global movement promoting breast cancer awareness and women's health, ShangHai partnered with the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) to advocate for early detection, care, and empowerment, aligning perfectly with the event’s theme of "Supporting Women, Building Futures."

Building on the success of the 2023 and 2024 editions, this year’s SHE Award once again recognised women demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact across diverse industries, women vital to Malaysia’s economic growth and social progress.

Bathed in shades of pink,  symbolising hope, strength, and compassion,  the evening transcended a traditional awards ceremony. It became a heartfelt tribute to womanhood and a collective celebration of purpose, unity, and empowerment.

The event was graced by Teresa Kok, Member of Parliament for Seputeh and Deputy Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee, as Guest of Honour. She was joined by distinguished guests including Datin Dr. Cherlin Cheah, CEO of ShangHai Media Sdn Bhd; CM Wong, founder of SBS Nexus Berhad; Elaine Piah, co-founder of SBS Nexus Berhad; Dato' Alfred Soh, managing director of Felement Group; Dato' Joseph Lim, president of the Malaysia Pioneer Entrepreneur Association;  Angie Ng, founder of EJS Jewels and director of BNI Malaysia Global Connections; Mentor Jo, founder and chief coach of Million Dollar CEO; Dato' Dr. Saunthari Somasundaram, president of NCSM; Datin Winnie Loo, founder of A Cut Above; Prof. Dato' Dr. Ben Ng, group CEO of Total Business Holdings; Datuk Ada Poon, operations director of Go Travel Zone Sdn Bhd; alongside ShangHai Business Media’s honourable advisors, Datuk Michael Kang and Dato' Alex Wong.

The evening commenced with an inspiring speech by Datin Dr. Cherlin Cheah, who emphasised the vital role women play in the business world. She stated, “Women bring a unique blend of wisdom, innovation, and leadership; their contributions are essential to shaping a more prosperous and sustainable future for all.”

Following her remarks, Teresa Kok delivered an empowering address, highlighting women’s roles beyond business, as agents of political and economic transformation. “Women must continue to lead with courage and support one another. When women rise together, their collective strength becomes a formidable force capable of transforming the world.”

A Pink October charity initiative was also featured, underscoring the importance of breast cancer awareness and early screening. Dato' Dr. Saunthari Somasundaram stressed the need for ongoing empathy and support for breast cancer patients navigating recovery.

A stylish fashion segment by Panache Tailoring Sdn. Bhd. showcased models in elegant tailored suits, celebrating women’s confidence and empowerment. The event also launched a “Wig Donation Campaign” to raise funds for cancer survivors, helping them regain confidence and beauty through compassion and solidarity.

This year, 66 women entrepreneurs were honoured through a transparent and rigorous judging process. All nominations were audited by Baker Tilly Malaysia, with final selections endorsed by a jury comprising Angie Ng, Mentor Jo, and Dato' Joseph Lim, ensuring fairness and integrity.

Among the awardees were Tengku Norhanim Tengku Othman of NIMS Adeliciousz Sdn Bhd, Catherine Goh of Santan Food Services Sdn Bhd, and Nicole Lim of Empire Sushi Sdn Bhd, exemplifying the strength and success of women leaders across borders.

Special honorary awards included the Women of Political Excellence Award to  Teresa Kok for her unwavering advocacy for integrity and justice; the International Distinguished Women Influence Award to Puan Sri Nisa Bakri of NISA Holdings Sdn Bhd for her visionary leadership and global impact; the Visionary Woman in Public Health Leadership Award to Dato' Dr. Saunthari Somasundaram for her remarkable contributions to public health; and the Leading Lady CEO Excellence Award to Datuk Nuraslina Zainal Abidin of THETA Edge Berhad for her outstanding achievements in corporate leadership and innovation.

Since its inception, the SHE Award has been dedicated to empowering women and recognising their vital contributions to business and society. Each year, it celebrates women who redefine leadership, inspire progress, and make a meaningful impact through their vision and courage.

ShangHai remains committed to championing women’s empowerment and collaborating with corporate and community partners to advance the mission of "Supporting Women, Building Futures."