For Hua Yang, it all starts with good homes

Hua Yang CEO Ho Wen Yan's ambition does not differ from the founder of the company, none other than his late father, Ho Mok Heng, who aspired to build quality homes in strategic locations that were affordable for everyone.

KUALA LUMPUR: Hua Yang Bhd is on a drive is to see the country does well by providing good homes for first-time buyers.

"From the first house, the buyer can build a family unit, who will then develop the nation. It all starts with having a good home," said Hua Yang chief executive officer (CEO) Ho Wen Yan.

Ho's ambition does not differ from the founder of the company, none other than his late father, Ho Mok Heng. Mok Heng aspired to build quality homes in strategic locations that were affordable for everyone.

From the first project, comprising eight units of four-storey shops in Ipoh, Perak, the group expanded to other states. Today, it has completed over 10,000 commercial and residential units worth RM1.2 billion.

As a trained architect, Ho is very passionate about buildings and urban planning.

Ho, who holds a Masters of Science degree in Construction Economics and Management from University College London, practiced architecture in the UK prior to joining Hua Yang. In 2003, he was made Hua Yang's project coordinator in Johor and promoted to chief operating officer in June 2007.

Come next month, it will be a year since Ho has led as the group's CEO.

"Here, we treat everyone as equal ... Everyone drives the business for the company," he said.

Married with one child, 37-year- old Ho likens his job to a cheerleader. "My role is to support them (employees), so that they can produce good work for the company."

He believes that Hua Yang has the right balance of experiences and perspectives to expand further.

"We have a right balance as the board consists of more senior people, while the younger people are on the operation side," he said.

He himself taps the experience of those who have served the company longer than him. "As a young CEO, it gives me a different perspective and drive," he said.

Ho's emphasis in family life and health are reflected in the group's activities, which involve sports and family outings.

By Business Times