When people reach for a box of Beryl’s chocolates, many assume it’s an imported European brand. In reality, Beryl’s Chocolate & Confectionery is proudly Malaysian. Founded in 1995 by Ting Sii Liong, the company began with a modest factory in Desa Serdang and a bold ambition: to create premium chocolates that could stand alongside international brands.
Back then, imported chocolates dominated consumers’ perception of quality. Rather than competing on price alone, Beryl’s chose a different path: producing premium chocolates with consistent quality, innovative flavours and accessible pricing. That strategy helped transform a local manufacturer into one of Malaysia’s most recognised chocolate brands, with products now available in more than 15 countries.
Leadership Starts with a Clear Vision
Instead of chasing rapid expansion, the company focused on strengthening its capabilities. After relocating to a larger factory in Seri Kembangan in 1998, Beryl’s continued investing in production and innovation. Additional factories opened in 2008 and 2013, enabling the company to expand beyond packaged chocolates into cookies, confectionery and food-service products. It was growth driven by preparation rather than pressure, a leadership lesson that sustainable success is built step by step.
Quality Is More Than a Promise
In today’s competitive marketplace, products can be copied, but trust cannot.
Beryl’s has consistently invested in premium ingredients, research and development, and stringent manufacturing standards. The company also became the first Malaysian-owned chocolate manufacturer to achieve both HACCP and Halal certification, reinforcing its commitment to food safety and consumer confidence while strengthening its position in international markets.
Innovation Keeps the Brand Relevant
Leadership is not only about maintaining standards, but it’s also about staying curious.
One of Beryl’s biggest milestones came in 2003 with the launch of its signature Tiramisu Chocolate, which quickly became a customer favourite. Since then, the company has continuously introduced new flavours, seasonal collections and product formats, growing its portfolio to more than 80 varieties. Instead of relying on a single bestseller, Beryl’s embraced innovation as an ongoing journey.
The Sweetest Leadership Lesson
Beryl’s has never been the loudest brand in the room, yet it has quietly earned the trust of consumers both at home and abroad. Its journey proves that leadership isn’t always defined by headlines or hype. Sometimes, it is built through consistency, resilience and a relentless commitment to doing the fundamentals exceptionally well.
In an era when businesses often chase overnight success, Beryl’s reminds us that lasting leadership is much like making fine chocolate: it takes patience, precision, and the courage to believe that something made in Malaysia can compete with the very best in the world.
Beryl’s journey proves that world-class brands can be built from Malaysian passion, innovation, and perseverance. The Leadership Excellence Award (LEA) celebrates visionary leaders and organisations creating lasting impact and taking Malaysia to the global stage. Nominate an inspiring leader today.
