Leader Spotlight #13 - Ken Loh

Ken Loh is a Malaysian born chinese and is the current Associate Director at BSE Vic.

1. Background and Inspiration: Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue a career in the property and construction industry?

After graduating as Electrical Engineer from the University of Auckland, I was fortunate to be trained as an electrical engineer in the property and construction industry in the early years of my career. So, in a sense it’s the only industry I have known in my professional life. However, I have grown to love the industry that provides opportunity to work and collaborate with multifaceted disciplines to create a unique product. I love it even more as it is a sector where I get to work with colleagues to deliver great outcomes for clients and to deliver buildings including facilities where people live, work and play.

2. Leadership and Diversity: How do you integrate your cultural background into your leadership style, or how do you advocate for diversity and inclusion within the industry?

As a first-generation migrant, I am very proud of my identity and embrace the positives in how I lead. The uniqueness that we bring to a team includes being respectful of diverse backgrounds and their richness, and being tolerant. This creates a unified team by being willing to learn from all cultures and embrace the good, while strengthening our understanding. The key is providing an environment that encourages each team member from different backgrounds to feel welcomed and safe to express their unique culture to the team.

3. Advice for Aspiring Professionals: What advice would you give to young professionals from multicultural backgrounds who aspire to leadership roles in the property and construction industry?

Be curious and open to learning about other cultures; be proud to express and share the uniqueness of your own cultural identity; avoid being prejudiced and be willing to change preconceived views if necessary. Finally, always provide support to others as a fellow team member, regardless of cultural backgrounds.

4. Future Vision: In your opinion, how can the property and construction industry better support multiculturalism?

It starts with the leaders of the industry. Leaders must demonstrate a willingness to learn, support, and embrace multiculturalism. They are role models for others and play a key role in making people feel safe to voice, express, and introduce their culture. Leaders should also provide a seat at the table for multiculturalism within their organisation, whether large or small. This creates opportunities to educate others and actively support multiculturalism.

Supporting related associations like MAPP in the common cause to raise the profile of multiculturalism—and seeking support from industry peak bodies such as the PCA—is equally important.

5. Cultural Celebrations: Can you share a significant cultural celebration or festival from your heritage that holds special meaning for you?

Without a doubt, the Lunar New Year brings back happy memories. For generations, this special occasion has been celebrated by our family each year. It marks the reunion of families at the ancestral home as a sign of respect and a way to celebrate the beginning of another year. It’s a time for wishing great health, prosperity, and happiness all around.

The gifting of “Ang Pow”—little red packets filled with cash from elders—stands out as a treasured tradition etched into my childhood memories. I’ll always remember the excitement of the annual trip to our hometown, where Grandpa and Grandma lived, and the long-awaited reunion with uncles, aunties, and cousins. And of course, the firecrackers on the first day, the feasting, and the lion dances—all remain cherished traditions I hold close.