Curtin Business Insight Series spotlights how innovation can take heritage brands to new markets

Miri, Sarawak – 14 September 2026 – How can a heritage business stay true to its roots while competing in an increasingly demanding marketplace?

That question took centre stage at the inaugural Curtin Business Insight Series, where more than 70 students, academics, industry representatives and community members gained first-hand insights into how innovation can help traditional businesses remain competitive, sustainable and relevant.

Hosted by the Faculty of Business at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia), the new series connects academia with industry and the wider community by bringing real-world business experiences and perspectives into conversations about emerging market trends and challenges.

The inaugural session featured Mohammad Hafidz Rohani, Managing Director of IANA Corporation Sdn. Bhd., owner of Siti Payung Kek Lapis and Chairman of the Chamber of Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs (DUBS) Miri.

Speaking on “From Heritage to Global Competitiveness: How Innovation Drives Sustainability at Siti Payung”, Mohammad Hafidz shared practical insights from his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting how a local heritage brand can adapt to changing consumer expectations and an increasingly competitive business landscape without losing its cultural identity.

He stressed that innovation, adaptability and strategic thinking are essential for traditional enterprises seeking to remain sustainable and unlock opportunities in wider markets.

For heritage businesses, he noted, staying competitive is not about abandoning tradition but finding innovative ways to preserve what makes a brand distinctive while responding to changing market demands.

The session also offered the students and participants an opportunity to gain a closer understanding of the realities behind building and sustaining a local brand, from navigating competition to balancing commercial growth with cultural preservation.

Dr. Ivy Hii, Associate Dean of External Engagement at the Faculty of Business, said meaningful engagement with industry is essential to ensuring that academic learning remains connected to the realities of the business world.

“The Curtin Business Insight Series provides a valuable platform for students, staff, and the community to learn directly from industry leaders. Siti Payung’s journey demonstrates how heritage, innovation, and entrepreneurship can intersect to build sustainable opportunities and stay relevant in a changing market,” said Dr. Hii.

An interactive question-and-answer session further encouraged participants to engage with Hafidz on the challenges and opportunities facing heritage businesses, particularly the need to strike a balance between growth, innovation and preserving cultural identity.

Organised by the Faculty of Business’ External Engagement Committee, the Curtin Business Insight Series will feature further engagements designed to bring industry practitioners into the academic environment and expose students and the community to practical business perspectives.

Through the series, Curtin Malaysia aims to strengthen the connection between academic knowledge and industry practice, while creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue on the issues shaping businesses and communities today.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn or TikTok.

Mohammad Hafidz Rohani shares insights on innovation and sustainability at the inaugural Curtin Business Insight Series.

Dr Ivy Hii presents a token of appreciation to Mohammad Hafidz Rohani.

Faculty representatives and participants pose with Mohammad Hafidz Rohani.