Have you ever felt like your business was stuck in the past while the world around you was racing ahead? That’s exactly how Stephen felt back in 2015 when he took a leap of faith into the world of digitization. What started as a humble venture selling durians online transformed into a journey that would redefine not just his business but also how he viewed the future of traditional industries in Malaysia.
A New Beginning
In 2015, Stephen and his team were grappling with the challenges of running a traditional food processing company. Specializing in fresh produce, they turned fruits into frozen products. However, as online shopping began to take off, Stephen saw a flicker of opportunity.
“We realized that online sales were already happening,” he recalled, recognizing a chance to innovate.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The first hurdles came in the form of logistics and fulfillment. “We couldn’t even make a profit from a single order,” he lamented. They were delivering the goods themselves, often working late into the night. The three of them could only manage about 20 orders a day, creating a bottleneck that felt suffocating.
Yet, instead of retreating into the comfort of traditional methods, Stephen chose to confront these challenges head-on.
Courage in the Face of Uncertainty
Stephen’s vision extended beyond mere survival; he wanted to reimagine the future of his business. He believed that digitization could unlock new possibilities.
“We needed to deal with it as soon as possible,” he said, acknowledging the urgency of the situation. The arrival of competitors like Shopee and Grab further fueled his desire to innovate.
In 2018, he launched a subscription-based model called GOMORI, focusing on seafood and vegetables. It was a bold move, but internal challenges soon emerged, leading to a difficult decision to close the venture just months before the pandemic. “Sometimes, you meet the right people at the wrong time,” he reflected, embodying the courage and determination that many SME owners must summon in the face of adversity.
Resilience Through Setbacks
Stephen’s journey was not without its setbacks. The early days of EnParty were fraught with stress; whether there were too few orders or too many, the pressure was relentless.
“When there is no order, it’s stressful. When there are too many orders, it’s also stressful,” he explained.
Yet, through every challenge, his resilience shone through. He continued to push for change, despite skepticism from some team members who preferred the safety of traditional practices.
What’s remarkable is how Stephen managed to keep his team motivated during these turbulent times. He led by example, demonstrating that embracing change was not just a necessity but an opportunity for growth. “You have to invite a few more warehouse staff, you have to move the goods out like this,” he advised, showcasing his commitment to improvement and the long-term vision he held for his business.
The Power of Connection
One of the most inspiring aspects of Stephen’s journey is his commitment to supporting his community. He didn’t just see his business as a means to make a profit; he wanted to create value for all stakeholders involved.
By forming Facebook groups in different areas, he engaged with local communities, providing them access to quality seafood and durians that they otherwise couldn’t find. “We assigned two good group leaders to blast that kind of good deal,” he shared, illustrating how he turned a simple idea into a community-driven initiative.
This approach not only helped him build a loyal customer base but also fostered a sense of belonging among his audience. It was a powerful reminder that business is not just about transactions; it’s about relationships.
Navigating the Storm
Stephen’s experiences offer valuable lessons for other SME owners. He emphasizes the importance of visionary thinking, courage, and resilience.
“Digitalization is no longer an option; it’s a necessity,” he asserts, urging others to view transformation as a journey rather than a destination.
He acknowledges that the process can be painful, yet it’s essential for long-term success. Moreover, he highlights the need for empathy in leadership. “You have to convince yourself that this investment is worth it,” he advises, recognizing that change can be daunting. But with the right mindset, it can lead to incredible opportunities.
The Road Ahead
As Stephen reflects on his journey, he recognizes that the landscape of business is ever-evolving. The challenges of digitization are not unique to him; they resonate with many traditional businesses struggling to keep pace with modern demands. Yet, he remains optimistic.
“You have to see the potential in your business,” he encourages, reminding us that every obstacle is an opportunity waiting to be seized.
So, what’s next for Stephen? He’s focused on continuing to innovate and adapt, ensuring that his business remains relevant in a rapidly changing world. His story serves as a beacon of hope for others navigating similar waters, proving that with vision, courage, and resilience, transformation is not just possible—it’s inevitable.
Do you know someone like Stephen?
We are looking for SME Digitization Heroes who:
- Transformed their traditional business through digital tools
- Created innovative solutions, even with limited resources
- Inspired others in their community to embrace change
These SME Digitization Heroes aren’t just about their digital success. They’re about vision, resilience, and the courage to break free from old ways and embrace new possibilities. They’re also focused on creating the life they really want—one that fits their passions, dreams, and values.
