Press Release

The World Brands Foundation (TWBF) Celebrates Brand Excellence at The BrandLaureate Awards 2026 and Introduces The BrandLaureate Accreditation Council (TBAC)

Oleh Maswan 23 Oct 2026 20:38 11 menit baca

EmitenTrust.com - THE COURAGE TO CHALLENGE;

BIGGER IN VISION. STRONGER IN CHARACTER. GREATER IN IMPACT.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Oct. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- 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 hosts The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2026 and The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards 2026, celebrating exceptional brands and leaders whose courage, conviction and determination have transformed aspirations into achievements. Behind every remarkable brand lies a story of perseverance; and behind every great leader, the courage to choose purpose over uncertainty and possibility over limitation. These Awards honour not just what they have achieved, but the challenges they have overcome and the inspiration they leave 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, it is 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.

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 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; and Ky. Col. Prof. Dr. Edward Roy Krishnan, Founder & Directeur General of European International University (EIU) - Paris, conferred as Advisor Emeritus, each recognised for their distinguished service and lasting contributions to The World Brands Foundation.

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. Shekinaih 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; and Khairul Azman Mohamed, Former Malaysian footballer (Goalkeeper); respectively honoured for their visionary leadership, outstanding contributions and enduring influence in their respective fields.

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, Eugene 尹景順 (Wen Keng Soon), Champion of Midlife, Sing & Shine! 4; Taanusiya 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; and Soon Lai Wai, Contemporary & Modern Artist; 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.

The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2026 also celebrated three distinguished International Brand Personalities: Lynton Harris (USA), Marcus Luer (Germany) and Alain Robert (France), who were each praised for their remarkable achievements in their respective fields. Harris, Chairman and Global Creative Director of Sudden Impact! Entertainment Company, is renowned for creating immersive live entertainment experiences including Nights of Fright, the popular Halloween attraction at Sunway Lagoon. Luer, Founder and Group CEO of Total Sports Asia Sdn Bhd (TSA), is a prominent figure in global sports marketing, media rights and commercial partnerships. Robert, famously known as the French Spider-Man, 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 inspires the mass to challenge boundaries and defy conventions.

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 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), and Total Sports Asia Sdn Bhd (TSA); recognised for their commitment to brand excellence, innovation and delivering outstanding value within their respective industries.

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), and Listen Up Sdn Bhd (OatLife); each honoured for their business achievements, innovative approach and determination to drive growth, strengthen their market presence and create lasting impact.

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 honours 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. Organisations interested in participating are invited to submit their nominations via email at info@thebrandlaureate.com or contact +603-77100348.

If you have a successful story to tell or wish to explore opportunities with us, please connect with us at pr@thebrandlaureate.com.

Website: www.thebrandlaureate.com

About The World Brands Foundation (TWBF)

The World Brands Foundation (formerly known as the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation) is a non-profit branding foundation dedicated to promoting the importance of branding on a global scale. Established in 2005, the Foundation is led by World President Honorable President Emeritus Professor Dr. KKJohan, alongside a Board of Governors comprising esteemed industry captains and brand icons.

TWBF champions its mission to educate, elevate, and advocate the value of branding, firmly believing that "the brand is the business, and the business is the brand." This encapsulates the Foundation's philosophy on the critical role branding plays in today's highly competitive business environment.

In 2006, TWBF launched The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards—a prestigious mark of brand excellence that honours outstanding brands across various industries. These award-winning brands are recognized for their strategic brilliance, innovation, and exemplary brand leadership. Following its success, TWBF curated a series of specialized awards, including: The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards, The BrandLaureate Brand ICON Leadership Awards, The BrandLaureate World Halal BestBrands Awards, The BrandLaureate DigiTech BestBrands Awards and several others over the years.

To date, over 3,000 brands and more than 500 international brand personalities—including statesmen, Nobel Laureates, corporate leaders, academicians, celebrities, and athletes—have been honoured through The BrandLaureate.

TWBF's global footprint began expanding in 2017 with The BrandLaureate Special Edition Awards in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, followed by events in Singapore and Hanoi in 2018, Singapore and Shenzhen, China in 2019 and South Korea in 2021. Strengthening its international presence further, 11 country presidents were appointed to represent Australia, Brunei, China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam.

In line with its vision to establish a stronger global presence, Singapore was officially named the headquarters of TWBF and The BrandLaureate. The BrandLaureate International Pte Ltd was registered in September 2024, and the inaugural The BrandLaureate Brand of the Year Awards Singapore was held on February 25, 2025.

Today, The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards stands as a beacon of inspiration, motivating brands and individuals to lead with purpose, integrity, and vision. In addition to its awards, TWBF runs corporate education programs including Certification in Brand Management and Brand Leadership to further empower professionals.

With the world's first Brand Gallery featuring over 500 international brand personalities, TWBF continues to push boundaries, serving as a dynamic global force in branding, and inspiring brands to achieve excellence and distinction on the world stage.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/the-world-brands-foundation-twbf-celebrates-brand-excellence-at-the-brandlaureate-awards-2026-and-introduces-the-brandlaureate-accreditation-council-tbac-302918149.html

SOURCE The BrandLaureate