CEO Insights Magazine

Agood leadership approach is often the linchpin in propelling a firm toward success. It entails fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and adaptability. Within this framework lies the story of Chan Sai Chok, the Managing Director of Perunding Eagles Engineers. With over three decades of industry experience, Chan Sai Chok epitomizes the embodiment of effective leadership. His strategic vision and unwavering commitment to excellence have positioned Perunding Eagles Engineers as Malaysia's premier Mechanical and Electrical Consulting firm. Through his leadership, the company continues to thrive, navigating challenges and spearheading transformative infrastructure projects with unparalleled expertise and innovation. Let's read on.

Can you provide a concise overview of your professional history and experiences? Additionally, what drives your daily activities and keeps you motivated?

I am Chan Sai Chok, a professional engineer with qualifications from the University of Memphis, USA, where I earned my degree in Electrical Engineering in 1985. Additionally, I hold an MBA from the University of Bath, UK. Twenty-five years ago, I founded my own engineering M&E consultancy firm, which has since become the largest of its kind in Malaysia, boasting a team of 100 skilled M&E engineers.

With over 30 years of industry experience, I have been involved in designing various Special Projects, including Toll Collection Systems (TCS), Traffic Control and Surveillance Systems (TCSS), Ports and Harbors infrastructure, Floating City Infrastructure, Data Centers, Hospitals, Airports, Tunnel M&E Systems, and Metro Railway System engineering works.

Throughout my career, I have successfully completed 80 tunnel M&E systems design projects across multiple countries. Notable projects include the 5km SMART tunnel, Penang 10km Undersea Car tunnel, 58 car tunnels in Saudi Arabia, double track 3km railway tunnel, and Metro underground tunnels in Malaysia.

My drive to grow the company's business by fivefold is what motivates and guides me in my daily endeavors.

What is your assessment of Perunding Eagles Engineers as a company and its current standing within the market?

For over a decade and a half, Perunding Eagles Engineers has been a stalwart in Malaysia's infrastructure landscape, specializing in niche projects of significant magnitude. As the foremost Mechanical and Electrical Consulting firm in the country, its influence spans across various sectors, from transportation and utilities to commercial and industrial developments. With a dedicated team exceeding 100 highly skilled engineers, the company possesses unparalleled expertise and resources to tackle complex challenges. Perunding Eagles Engineers' enduring dominance in the market underscores its reputation for delivering innovative solutions and ensuring the seamless execution of projects vital to national progress.

Share your leadership philosophy with us. What principles or methodologies shape your approach as a leader?

I believe in leading by example, embodying the values and behaviors I expect from my team. Integrity, diligence, and a relentless pursuit of excellence are the cornerstones of my leadership approach. I prioritize fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, encouraging my team to push their boundaries and strive for excellence in every aspect of our work. By setting high standards and consistently delivering top-notch services, I instill confidence and motivation within my team, empowering them to perform at their best and achieve exceptional results.

What strategies do you employ to stay informed about current industry trends, ensuring that your organization remains forward-thinking and well-positioned for the future?

Remaining abreast of emerging industry trends and opportunities is pivotal in guiding our organization towards future success. To achieve this, I prioritize various strategies. Firstly, I diligently monitor business news and government announcements to stay informed about new mega projects in the country, recognizing their potential impact on our industry landscape. Additionally, I actively participate in technical talks and exhibitions hosted by industry suppliers. These events afford me the opportunity to engage directly with experts and learn about cutting-edge products and innovations shaping our sector. By leveraging these channels, I ensure that our organization remains well-informed and equipped to adapt to the evolving dynamics of the industry, thereby enhancing our competitive edge and strategic positioning for the future.

What lies ahead as your future destination?

We have set our sights on expanding our services beyond borders, aiming to establish a presence in Australia and various ASEAN countries. This strategic expansion aligns with our vision of becoming a global leader in our field, broadening our reach to new markets, and capitalizing on emerging opportunities. By venturing into these regions, we seek to leverage our expertise and capabilities to foster mutually beneficial partnerships, drive sustainable growth, and solidify our position as a trusted industry leader on an international scale.

Given your extensive industry experience, what guidance would you offer to aspiring leaders emerging within the field?

Drawing from your wealth of industry knowledge, emphasizing the provision of unparalleled quality services to clients stands as paramount advice for budding leaders. By prioritizing excellence and consistently exceeding client expectations, you not only establish a reputation for reliability and professionalism but also cultivate long-term trust and loyalty. Embrace innovation, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and prioritize client satisfaction as the cornerstone of your leadership journey. This commitment to excellence not only drives organizational success but also fosters personal and professional growth, setting a solid foundation for future leadership endeavors.

Chan Sai Chok, Managing Director, Perunding Eagles Engineers

Chan Sai Chok, the Managing Director of Perunding Eagles Engineers, is a seasoned professional engineer with over three decades of industry expertise. With a background in Electrical Engineering and an MBA, he leads Malaysia's largest Mechanical and Electrical Consulting firm, driving innovation and excellence in infrastructure projects.