In a world where change is constant and the courage to challenge the ordinary has never been more important, The World Brands Foundation (TWBF) proudly presents The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2026 and The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards 2026. These awards celebrate exceptional brands and leaders whose courage, conviction and determination have transformed aspirations into achievements. Behind every remarkable brand lies a story of perseverance; behind every great leader, the courage to choose purpose over uncertainty and possibility over limitation. The Awards honour not only what has been achieved, but the challenges overcome and the inspiration left for others to follow.
More than a celebration of branding excellence, The BrandLaureate recognises the power of visionary leadership and purposeful enterprise in shaping a better future. Across multinational corporations (MNCs), publicly listed companies (PLCs), government-linked companies (GLCs) and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), lasting success demands the vision to see beyond the ordinary, the resilience to navigate uncertainty and the determination to pursue lasting eminence. The brands that truly leave their mark are not those that simply follow change, but those that dare to create it, earn trust and inspire others through their achievements.
Guided by the theme “The Courage to Challenge: Challenge Convention. Challenge Complacency. Challenge Cognition. Challenge Commitment. Challenge Culture,” The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2026 celebrates pioneering brands and leaders who dare to question established norms, transcend limitations and turn bold aspirations into meaningful change. Through innovation, strategic vision and sound governance, they demonstrate that progress begins when someone dares to imagine something better and possesses the determination to make it a reality. Their journeys remind us that the future belongs to those who have the courage to lead change rather than wait for it to happen.
The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards 2026, anchored by the theme “Bigger in Vision. Stronger in Character. Greater in Impact,” honours Malaysia’s SMEs as vital contributors to the nation’s economic growth and entrepreneurial spirit. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) contributed 39.7% to Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2025. Beyond these figures are stories of entrepreneurs who dared to begin, persevered through uncertainty and pursued their dreams against the odds. Their journeys remind us that greatness is not measured by the size of a business, but benchmarked by the strength of its vision, the integrity of its character and the courage to keep moving forward. Every enduring brand was once a dream waiting to be realised.
Through these Awards, TWBF reaffirms its commitment to recognising branding excellence, inspiring purposeful leadership and nurturing the next generation of business forerunners. Beyond celebrating those who have achieved greatness, the Awards seek to inspire others to embrace challenges, pursue their aspirations and create meaningful impact. Ultimately, their greatest legacy lies not just in the achievements celebrated today, but in the possibilities they awaken for tomorrow. For every great leader was once a dreamer; every distinguished brand began with a belief, and every lasting legacy started with the courage to take the first step. May their journeys inspire others to dare, persevere and lead with purpose; because the leaders who shape tomorrow are those who have the courage to begin today.
“Every great achievement begins with the courage to take the first step, the confidence to believe in what is possible and the conviction to persevere when the journey becomes difficult. These are the qualities that define extraordinary brands and visionary leaders, and also those who dare to dream of a better tomorrow. True leadership is not simply about reaching the summit, but forging new paths, inspiring others to follow and leaving a legacy that outlives oneself. As we honour those who have shaped industries and transformed possibilities, may their journeys remind us that the greatest legacy lies not only in what we achieve, but in the lives we inspire and the future we help shape,” said The Honorable President Emeritus Prof. Dr. KKJohan, World President of The World Brands Foundation.
Launch of The BrandLaureate Accreditation Council (TBAC)
The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards Gala 2026 also marked the official launch of The BrandLaureate Accreditation Council (TBAC) and its International Brand Excellence Standard (IBES), representing a significant milestone in advancing brand excellence. Established under TWBF, TBAC introduces a framework designed to help brands strengthen their credibility and demonstrate excellence through evidence-based practices, responsible systems, customer experience, governance and market strength. Guided by the principle that trust must be demonstrated through action, TBAC | IBES aims to establish a meaningful benchmark for brands to build stakeholder confidence, uphold accountability and pursue sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive global landscape.
The World Brands Foundation Honorary Emeritus
The World Brands Foundation Honorary Emeritus honours distinguished individuals who have rendered exemplary leadership, dedicated service and invaluable contributions to TWBF. The recognition acknowledges their enduring commitment to strengthening the Foundation’s standing, advancing its mission and championing brand excellence. This year’s honourees include:
YABhg Tun Dato’ Seri Md Raus bin Sharif, 14th Chief Justice of Malaysia, conferred as Patron Emeritus
Dr. Chew Bee Peng, Chancellor of The BrandLaureate, conferred as Chancellor Emeritus
YBhg Tan Sri Datuk Dzulkifli bin Ahmad, President of Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Corruption Academy, conferred as Chairman Emeritus
Ky. Col. Prof. Dr. Edward Roy Krishnan, Founder & Director General of European International University (EIU) – Paris, conferred as Advisor Emeritus
Each was recognised for their distinguished service and lasting contributions to The World Brands Foundation.
The BrandLaureate Brand ICON Leadership Award 2026
The BrandLaureate Brand ICON Leadership Award 2026 celebrates distinguished leaders, visionaries and changemakers whose exceptional leadership, innovation and achievements have made a meaningful impact on their industries and communities. This year’s recipients include:
Marcus Luer, Group Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Total Sports Asia Sdn Bhd
Prof. Dr. Fredrick Otieno Aoko, Esq, International Attorney at the Law Chambers of Dr. Otieno F Advocates & Full Professor of Law at European International University
YBhg Dato’ Amarjit Singh Gill, President of the Malaysian National Cycling Federation (MNCF) & President of the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC)
Prof. (Hon.) Dr. Shekiniah Siew Sin Yap, PD, Ph.D., D.Litt. (h.c.), Founder & Managing Partner of CE Global Network International Pte. Ltd
Dr. J Aaron K David, Ph.D., Co-founder & Partner of CE Global Network International Pte. Ltd
Khairul Azman Mohamed, Former Malaysian footballer (Goalkeeper)
Each was honoured for their visionary leadership, outstanding contributions and enduring influence in their respective fields.
The BrandLaureate BrandLeadership Award 2026
The BrandLaureate BrandLeadership Award 2026 pays tribute to exceptional individuals whose bold vision, strategic acumen and ability to inspire have driven meaningful change and set new benchmarks in their respective fields. This year’s recipients include:
Eugene 景顺 (Wen Keng Soon), Champion of Midlife, Sing & Shine! 4
Tanausiya Chetty, Miss World Asia 2026
Madam Lai Lee Ching, Strategic Advisory for Digital Trust & Outreach of Vigilant Asia
Shahizam Ibrahim, Founder & Managing Director of E-Transact Technology Sdn Bhd
Dr. Paul Charles, Founder of The Resilient Learning Foundation, Resilient Learning Masterclass HUB & Founder and Executive Director of Resilience Coaching International
Soon Lai Wai, Contemporary & Modern Artist
They were celebrated for their remarkable accomplishments, transformative influence and unwavering pursuit of progress, embodying the spirit of leadership that empowers people, shapes industries and paves the way for future generations.
International Brand Personalities
The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2026 also celebrated three distinguished International Brand Personalities:
Lynton Harris (USA), Chairman and Global Creative Director of Sudden Impact! Entertainment Company, renowned for creating immersive live entertainment experiences including Nights of Fright, the popular Halloween attraction at Sunway Lagoon
Marcus Luer (Germany), Founder and Group CEO of Total Sports Asia Sdn Bhd (TSA), a prominent figure in global sports marketing, media rights and commercial partnerships
Alain Robert (France), famously known as the French Spider-Man, who has gained international recognition for his daring skyscraper climbs and extraordinary feats of endurance
Together, these personalities embody the creativity, entrepreneurial vision and courage that inspire the masses to challenge boundaries and defy conventions.
Special Segment: TVBI and TVB Midlife, Sing & Shine! 4
A special segment featuring TVBI, TVB Midlife, Sing & Shine! 4 and Eugene (Wen Keng Soon) brought the influence of Chinese-language entertainment to the spotlight at The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards Gala 2026. As TVB’s international business platform, TVBI plays a key role in bringing TVB’s content to global audiences through international distribution, streaming and entertainment initiatives. Featuring TVB Midlife, Sing & Shine! 4, a popular singing competition that celebrates vocal talent and the timeless appeal of Chinese-language music, the segment highlighted the power of entertainment to transcend borders, connect generations and foster cultural appreciation. Together with Eugene, the segment showcased the continued evolution of Chinese-language entertainment and its ability to captivate audiences through compelling performances, fresh voices and dynamic storytelling.
The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2026 Recipients
The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2026 recognises organisations that have built strong and trusted brands through excellence, sustained business growth and industry leadership. This year’s recipients include:
Petronas Sepang International Circuit (SIC)
Brickfields Asia College Sdn Bhd (BAC)
MyANGKASA Amanah Berhad (MAAB)
Sarawak Media Group Sdn Bhd (SMG)
Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN)
Yeo Hiap Seng (Malaysia) Berhad (Yeo’s)
Lam Soon Edible Oils Sdn Bhd (Naturel, Knife and Antabax)
Empire Manufacturing Sdn Bhd
Magna Prima Berhad
SanDisk Storage Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Griffin Protection Integrated Security Pte Ltd (GPIS)
Golden Destinations Group Berhad (The Signature Tours by Golden Destinations Group Berhad)
Total Sports Asia Sdn Bhd (TSA)
Each was recognised for their commitment to brand excellence, innovation and delivering outstanding value within their respective industries.
The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards 2026 Recipients
The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards 2026 praises SMEs that demonstrate entrepreneurial spirit, resilience and a commitment to building distinctive and trusted brands. This year’s recipients include:
Q-dees Worldwide Edusystems (M) Sdn Bhd
Rock Maestro Sdn Bhd
E-Transact Technology Sdn Bhd (Eticketing.my)
Listen Up Sdn Bhd (OatLife)
Each was honoured for their business achievements, innovative approach and determination to drive growth, strengthen their market presence and create lasting impact.
A Celebration of Brands of All Sizes
The Awards reflect The BrandLaureate’s commitment to celebrating brands of all sizes, from established industry leaders to ambitious SMEs, that exemplify excellence, innovation and resilience. These recognitions honour organisations that build trusted brands, embrace new opportunities and deliver meaningful value within their respective industries, recognising their contributions to business growth, economic progress and a stronger, more dynamic and sustainable business landscape.
