Early Life
Koon Poh Keong was born on April 25, 1961. Upon returning to Malaysia from the United States after graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma, he found few job opportunities due to a recession.
Rise to Success
In 1986, Koon Poh Keong, along with his four brothers, pooled $50,000 to establish an aluminum-extruding company. This company, which started in a rented factory in Puchong, Selangor, has grown to become Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad. Under his leadership as Group CEO since 1993, the company has expanded significantly. Press Metal is now the largest integrated aluminum producer in Southeast Asia, competing with global giants such as Rio Tinto and China's Aluminum Corporation. Koon played a pivotal role in the company's expansion, including venturing into China and establishing a plant outside Foshan, Guangdong.
Key Business Strategies
Koon's leadership style emphasizes empowerment and trust, fostering a collaborative and performance-driven management structure. He has spearheaded the company's commitment to sustainability, investing in green technologies and reducing its environmental footprint. Press Metal's strategy includes vertical integration, controlling every stage of production from smelting to extrusion, to maintain a competitive edge and ensure stability against market fluctuations.
Philanthropy
Press Metal, under Koon Poh Keong's leadership, has also been known for its commitment to corporate social responsibility, and has emphasized sustainable practices. Specific amounts of philanthropy could not be determined from the search results.