Lighting the Way

Sua Kim Seng, managing director of Lightcraft Group of Companies, shares his journey and wisdom in building a multi-million ringgit business empire

- Kiran Pillay

Before Sua Kim Seng became the managing director of Lightcraft Group of Companies, he was a young man determined to find his true calling. The Malacca-born entrepreneur started working at 18, exploring ventures in tourism, car rentals and used car sales. He also gained six years of experience in banking before venturing into his current role.

“I learned to listen, be ready to serve others and stay open to learning. It was important to think positively and master quick decision-making. Most of all, I swallowed my pride. There was simply no room for ego,” Sua says, reflecting on his early working experiences.

Sua describes his journey into the lighting industry as a matter of chance. “A friend proposed the idea of going into the business. He invited me to visit Lightcraft at The Mall, known today as Sunway Putra Mall.” Making a trip after his day job, Sua found the store closed. “Everything was dark, save for a few lights. There I was, pressed against the storefront window, trying to get a look.”

Curiosity piqued, Sua explored two other lighting stores within the same mall. “I realised other brands were selling the same kind of crystal, brass and glass fixtures. When I went back to visit Lightcraft, it became obvious there was something unique here, and I jumped into it.”

Lightcraft began as a company specialising in marketing modern and architectural light fittings. Nowadays, their projects extend beyond private homes to include corporate offices, hotels, shopping malls and various other establishments. Lightcraft carries a generous range of premium designer brands, including Artemide, Anglepoise, Fontana Arte, Kartell, Marset, Lodes, Simes, Unilamp and more.