Datuk Choong Han Leong (1916-1992), a business tycoon and well-known community leader in Penang, was mainly involved in the hardware, steel and plastic raw materials businesses. In 1972, he restructured his business and formed the Guan Yik Mao Sdn Bhd and set up branches in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Johor Bahru.
In 1958, we was elected Council Member and later President of Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce. In 1972, became President of ACCCIM, becoming the first national leader of the Chinese business community from Penang. He held various senior posts in associations, schools, and ogranisations in Penang, including President of the Penang Chinese Assembly Hall, Chairman of Hokkien Association, President of Chinwoo Athletic Association, Chairman of Penang Chinese Girls Secondary and Primary Schools.
While serving as ACCCIM President, he was appointed a director of Malaysia International Shipping Corporation Berhad, and was elected alternate President of National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, playing an instrumental role in organizing Chinese business leaders to deliberate on topics affecting the Chinese and business communities, social welfare, amendments to government policies and legislations, implementation of economic policy and nation building efforts. The compilation of the History of Chinese Chambers of Commerce in Malaysia resolved by the ACCCIM’s 25th Annual General Meeting was carried out during his presidential tenure. This publication has become an important historical archive not only to the ACCCIM and the Chinese business community but also the nation.
