As the CEO of U Mobile, Wong Heang Tuck has been instrumental in driving the company’s growth since he joined as COO in 2013. With over two decades of experience in finance, business, and corporate development, Wong’s leadership and strategic vision have helped U Mobile outperform the industry average in revenue and market growth.
Can you tell us about your background and how it has influenced your leadership style?
I have an engineering background and a knack for numbers, which has helped me in my finance and business roles. However, I believe in taking a practical and holistic approach to leadership, which involves considering not just the numbers but also the people, the market, and the broader context in which we operate. This helps us make more informed and sustainable decisions for the long term.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face as the CEO of a telecommunications company in Malaysia?
The telecommunications industry is highly competitive and constantly evolving, so one of our biggest challenges is staying ahead of the curve and anticipating the needs and preferences of our customers. This requires a deep understanding of the market and a willingness to innovate and invest in new technologies and services that differentiate us from our competitors.
How has U Mobile adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic, and what lessons have you learned from this experience?
The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies and services, which has presented opportunities and challenges for U Mobile. On the one hand, we have seen increased demand for our data and digital services as more people work and learn from home. On the other hand, we have had to quickly adapt to changing customer needs and behaviors, such as offering more flexible and affordable plans and ensuring the safety and well-being of our employees and customers. One lesson from this experience is the importance of agility and resilience in uncertainty.
What are your plans for the future of U Mobile, and how do you see the company evolving in the coming years? Our focus is on providing our customers with the best possible experience, whether that’s through our network quality, customer service, or innovative products and services. We are also committed to driving digital inclusion and empowering more Malaysians to participate in the digital economy. To achieve these goals, we will continue to invest in our network and infrastructure, as well as in our people and capabilities. Ultimately, we want to be the preferred telco for Malaysians, and by staying true to our values and purpose, we can achieve this.