“Life, Work, and Family” - Challenges Abroad, Family Bonds, and a Supportive Heart. --OPK INTER-CORPORATION SDN. BHD. (OIC)

Interview/[Life, Work, and Family]


—First, how should I address you?
“My name is Ying Hui, but since my nickname is easier to say, please call me KeiKei (san)”.

—Please tell us about your career so far.
I spent 18 years in southeastern Taiwan, and after graduating high school, I went to Japan. I first attended a Japanese language school in Tokyo, then entered Jobu University in Gunma Prefecture. In fact, it was at Jobu University that I met President Yu, who later became my husband.
At that time, I was still unfamiliar with Japanese language and culture, but we could naturally converse and support each other through our student life. Looking back, our meeting despite cultural and language differences feels truly destined.
After that, we got married, and on October 22, 1994, we establishedOPK INTER-CORPORATION SDN. BHD. (OIC)At the beginning, I was responsible for all the foundational work of the company, including accounting, general affairs, systems, and human resources. Now, I have reliable subordinates in each field, and I only visit the company about twice a week, almost in retirement (laughs).
For a while after our marriage, President Yu continued working in Japan, and we lived apart. Then in 1995, our child was born in Taiwan. It was a moment of great joy for our family, but just five months later, we decided to move to Malaysia as a family.
Life in an unknown land was full of anxieties and sometimes loneliness. Still, with the desire to support my husband’s dream, I took steps forward while caring for our child.
Also, at that time, to send my husband’s (President Yu’s) younger brother to university in Japan, Japanese father (Owner Okuda Hitoshi) lent us money and allowed him to stay in the dormitory. I’m still nothing but grateful for that.
This year marks our 31st year of life in Malaysia. The son born at that time has now completed his training in Japan and is working admirably as a subordinate of Jessica, the president of OMS, an OIC affiliated company. I’m truly proud that we’ve been able to walk together as a family over these 30 years.

—(A slightly personal question) What are your hobbies and special skills?
I enjoy eating, mountain climbing, and traveling. Last year, I climbed the highest mountain in Malaysia. When I was younger, I played swimming and basketball for six years. Recently, I’ve been enjoying yoga and tai chi.
As for languages, I use Japanese, Chinese, Taiwanese, Cantonese, English, and simple Malay. It was really tough at first, but now I’m used to multiple languages. By the way, when we argue, we use Japanese (laughs). It’s because we both use softer words in Japanese.

—Do you have any favorite books?
I like history, especially “Romance of the Three Kingdoms”. Influenced by my father who was a judge, I also often read suspense and detective novels.

—Who do you respect?
All the “fathers” in my life. My biological father, my father-in-law, my Japanese father, and I also respect the late Mr. Adisak, the former CEO of Cherathai in Thailand.

—Please tell us about your car.
Since Malaysia is a car-centric society, I drive a TOYOTA Corolla Cross (4WD, Hybrid).
There are long distances between cities, and it’s impossible to live in Malaysia without a car.

—What’s your favorite food?
I love beer (laughs). It’s fun to drink with friends. Among Japanese foods, I have fond memories of the curry my husband often made. In Malaysia, I like “Bak Kut Teh”. I’m not fond of greasy or spicy foods, or natto.

—Please recommend some spots in Malaysia.

Malaysia has beautiful seas and beaches, and the mountain scenery in East Malaysia is wonderful. It has a tropical rainforest climate with rainy and dry seasons. There are no typhoons or earthquakes, and it’s warm all year round. Because it’s comfortable to live in, many Japanese people choose to live here after retirement.

—What’s your impression of Japan?
As a student, I worked part-time washing dishes in Shinjuku and at a gas station. Japan is really polite, with many kind people, and it’s safe. However, immigration was strict. At that time, women coming from Taiwan were often suspected of being in the water trade, and even when I showed my student ID and grades, I was asked “Are you really a student?” with suspicion…

—(Back to work talk) Please tell us about the atmosphere of your company and team.
OIC has about 50 people, OMS has 8. The sales team is energetic, sociable, and vibrant! The internal operations (KK’s) team is serious and flexible. They don’t joke around much though (laughs).

—When do you feel a sense of fulfillment in your work and daily life?
Recently, it’s been volunteer activities. I’m involved with a women’s association for Taiwanese women, and I also cherish the time I spend with my husband’s (President Yu’s) mother.

—Lastly, please share your thoughts about OPK (OIC).
I sincerely hope that OPK becomes a 100-year-old company. Starting from grandfather’s generation, we’re now in the 4th generation. We’ve come this far due to the accumulated efforts of many people. That’s why I want everyone to be healthy and reach the 100th anniversary together.


Interview Date: April 2025
Interview Cooperation:
OPK INTER-CORPORATION SDN. BHD. (OIC)
Director
CHEN YING HUI

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