Cover YPO Southeast Asia and Tatler Malaysia came together for an evening of meaningful conversations

From inspiring conversations to meaningful connections, the exclusive YPO Southeast Asia x Tatler Malaysia gathering celebrated leadership beyond business

YPO Southeast Asia is one of 14 regions within YPO; a global leadership community started in 1950, YPO is a global leadership community connecting chief executives and business leaders from more than 150 countries. Built on the idea that peer learning and trusted connections are essential to personal and professional growth, the organisation provides members with opportunities to exchange ideas, gain new perspectives and grow alongside like-minded leaders. Through curated experiences, impactful conversations and lifelong networks, YPO continues to shape the next generation of leadership on a global scale.

See more: Cover story: The Gnanalingam women on raising families, leading with kindness and building legacy

An evening of meaningful conversations and inspiring perspectives unfolded as YPO Southeast Asia and Tatler Malaysia came together for gathering that brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers. Held in an intimate setting at Social Room, the evening  to encourage authentic dialogue and connection, the event reflected the shared values of both communities: leadership, innovation and the power of relationships.

Tatler Asia
Above Business leaders and owners shared meaningful conversations
Tatler Asia
Above It was a night where guests could connect over shared interests and goals

The evening began with a networking session, where members of YPO and guests of Tatler Malaysia had the opportunity to connect over cocktails and conversations. The atmosphere was warm and energetic as attendees exchanged insights, forged new connections and reconnected with familiar faces from across various industries.

Guests were then welcomed by Satish Selvanathan, who delivered an opening address introducing YPO’s mission and vision within the Southeast Asia region. In his speech, Selvanathan highlighted the importance of building purposeful communities and creating spaces where leaders can openly learn from one another beyond traditional business settings.

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The programme continued with a fireside chat and panel discussion titled YPO Spotlight: YPO Members’ Stories, which explored personal leadership journeys, lessons in resilience and the value of community. The conversation featured insights from Gladdy He alongside fellow YPO members, offering guests an honest and engaging exchange on navigating leadership in today’s evolving landscape. The discussion touched on topics ranging from entrepreneurship and personal growth to balancing ambition with purpose, resonating strongly with attendees throughout the evening.

Adding a touch of entertainment to the night was a captivating magician performance, which brought moments of surprise and levity to the programme while keeping guests thoroughly engaged.

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The evening also featured a special talk by Kent Chua titled ‘Leadership Beyond Success: Why Community Matters’. In an inspiring session, Chua reflected on the evolving meaning of leadership today, emphasising that success is no longer defined solely by achievement, but also by the ability to uplift others and foster genuine human connection.

As the formal programme came to a close, networking resumed late into the evening, with guests continuing conversations sparked throughout the night. More than just a gathering, the YPO x Tatler Malaysia event served as a celebration of shared ideas, meaningful relationships and the enduring value of community-driven leadership.

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Aina Nur Sarah
Senior Lifestyle Writer, Tatler Malaysia
Tatler Asia

As Senior Lifestyle Writer, Aina writes across the lifestyle vertical, covering wellness, travel, arts and entertainment. Based in Kuala Lumpur, she previously worked at CLEO Malaysia, where she headed the lifestyle, culture and entertainment sections.