This article is sponsored by MUI Group 
Image via SYOK
Andrew Khoo: The boss behind the next-level biz revolution
Andrew Khoo Boo Yeow is the CEO and Chairman of MUI Group, a company that’s into everything from retail to hotels. He took over from his dad, Tan Sri Khoo Kay Peng, in 2018.
Academia wise, boy does he have some great street cred! Andrew’s got a law degree and a Master of Arts from Cambridge, an MBA from Seattle Pacific University, and a Bachelor’s in political science and economics from the University of Victoria, Canada.
Image via Robb Report Malaysia
How much he’s accomplished in 7 years is insane!
MUI Group has been around forever, expanding into all sorts of sectors since 1960. They were totally thriving in the '80s and '90s.
When Andrew took over, he knew he needed a squad of talented people to play to the company’s strengths—strength, efficiency, and trustworthiness. In no time, he made some big moves: sold off one of their listed companies, brought in top trainers and speakers from the States to level up his team, and built a more wholesome company culture.
Image via Robb Report Malaysia
The challenge of moving into a 2nd gen business
Taking over a family business is no joke. Andrew had to carry the brand with the right mindset to make sure he’d be successful.
From a young age, he wanted to be like his dad, but he didn’t get the business handed to him on a silver platter. His dad never expected him to take over.
Image via The Edge Malaysia
As a matter of fact, one of the biggest lessons he learnt from his dad growing up was, that there is no substitute for hard work.
So, Andrew started by working under his dad, went off to do his own thing, and only came back to MUI Group when his dad thought he was ready.
MUI Group’s diversified business units
In retail, MUI Group is killing it with brands like Metrojaya, East India Company, Indie Batik, and Somerset Bay. But they’re not stopping there! They’ve also expanded into hotels with Corus KL, the F&B sector with A&W, and even energy with West Synergy.
Indie Batik
Indie Batik for one, is a new brand that was just launch. The brand celebrates everything that is Malaysian, in accordance with the government’s current drive. It is a batik line that is more contemporary, modern and lifestyle driven.
They source locally, so MUI supports local artisans and the whole design and aesthetic is centered around that.
Metrojaya
MUI Group has also invested in Benjamin Barker and come up with a pickleball/racquetball athleisure collection under Cape Cod.
Besides that, a streetwear sports shoe brand will also be introduced, Feiyue, and a collaboration with Christy Ng for her new racquet bag collection.
They also have a café in the department store.
A&W
MUI Group recently acquired 100% of the brand.
At present time, there is 100 A&W outlets, and the plan is to have added 10-15 more a year, with more drive-throughs, at R&Rs, and selected outlets all throughout Malaysia, so that collective number can reach 200-300 outlets.
Bandar Springhill
MUI Group partnered with UCSI and is working on a township; Bandar Springhill, Negeri Sembilan.
There’s a hospital, their residential component; MUI Properties Bhd, an on-going Western Industrial Park, and a future first China medical devices factory outside China.
Imerso Hotels
MUI Group built the first Holiday Inn in Malaysia, and have been in the hotel line since the 70s. Today, they have hotels in Singapore, Australia, UK and US.
They will also be launching a new brand called Imerso Hotels and a new hotel management company, Immersive Hospitality.
Wolfpack Investments
MUI Group is also moving into venture fund in Singapore, called Wolfpack. This is to get a close-up view of new businesses, new emerging trends, and new technology coming in.
Some investments that have been done by the company is bespoke fragrances; Maison 21G, and subscription fragrances; Senses & Co.
Other ventures
Image via Burnham Beeches Hotel
Hyde Park Hotel in London will be converted into a Marriott tribute next year, and Imerso Hotel in Burnham Beeches was just soft launched a couple of weeks ago.
Lessons learned and getting everyone on that same page
Andrew’s key takeaway? Everything happens for a reason, and it’s all about finding the deeper meaning in every moment.
He knows the secret to making moves is understanding people—whether it’s customers, employees, or stakeholders—and meeting them where they’re at.
Image via SYOK
To get everyone vibing with his vision, he listens up and keeps the company’s purpose real, clear, and relatable.
It’s about creating value that hits different, staying open to learning, grabbing opportunities, and living with zero regrets.
What’s next?
The goal is simple: take what he’s been given and turn it into something real. Andrew’s focused on doing the right thing, staying on the right path, and leading with purpose.
At the end of the day, he’s aiming for a legacy that speaks for itself—no explanations needed.
Listen to the full podcast!
For the full episode of Life Confession Season 3 featuring Mr. Andrew Khoo, tune in to SYOK. You can also subscribe to SYOK’s podcast channel for more inspirational stories and updates!
