Leadership in Motion: CK’s Path Forward

When asked how he unwinds after a long week, Chang Chee Keong or famously known as CK smiles and says he usually starts by chatting with his wife and daughter. His evenings almost always begin with a simple ritual.

“I ask how their day was and they ask about mine. They always have stories to share.” These quiet conversations, filled with small updates and shared laughter, remind him of what matters most.

Outside of family time, CK stays grounded through simple routines. If time allows, he heads to the gym for a run on the treadmill to stay healthy. He also enjoys reading magazines, newspapers or a good book. Whenever he gets the chance, he plans trips with his family.

Travelling has become a shared passion and China remains one of their favourite destinations. “China is fascinating. Every part of the country is different,” he says. He recalls the unique charms of places like Yunnan and Shangri-La, with their diverse ethnic cultures and scenic landscapes that are far less developed than major cities such as Shanghai or Beijing.

Family is a strong anchor in his life as he prepares for the biggest transition of his career. From Jan 2026, CK will take on the role of CEO of the Packaging Business Unit, succeeding Mr Chui Tau Siong, who is now a board member of the Group.

“It is a great honour,” he says. “There is a lot we want to achieve as we move into our next five-year strategic plan and I am very grateful to the team who has supported me throughout this journey.”

CK joined the Jebsen & Jessen Group in 2019 as General Manager of JJ-LAPP Malaysia before moving to Jebsen & Jessen Packaging in 2023. The change was significant. “JJ-LAPP was trading and distribution. Here it is full manufacturing, from design and development to operations. It is a totally different outfit.”

Even so, he describes the transition as fulfilling. “I keep learning. Learning never stops,” he says. He credits his mentors and colleagues including COO Hor Chang Tee for guiding him through a business that operates across Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia.

Through these changes, CK has come to see that progress requires courage. “Change is inevitable. Opportunities will come and we must have the courage to take them on.” One lesson he values is the importance of preparing the next generation. “If we want to move up, someone must be ready to take our place.”

Looking ahead, CK is focussed on achieving profitable and sustainable growth, strengthening core businesses and improving operations while reducing environmental impact.

Above all, he believes leadership starts with people. “We lead by example, we grow together and we embrace change for the good of the whole team.”