On 27 February, a delegation led by Hu Kun, China Regional General Manager of the Trade Department of Singapore's QAF Limited, along with heads of subsidiary companies and business partners, visited Liem Sioe Liong Memorial Hall. Accompanied by Chen Hui, head of the Fuqing branch of QAF Limited, the delegation traced the entrepreneurial journey of Mr. Liem Sioe Liong and reflected on his profound dedication to family and homeland. 

As a listed company controlled by the Salim family, QAF Limited has been deeply rooted in the food industry for decades. Its business ranges from bread manufacturing, food processing to international trade, with a marketing network covering Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Australia, and China. Its renowned bread brand “Gardenia” is a household name across Southeast Asia.

Guided by docents, the delegation toured the four exhibition halls. They frequently used their mobile phones to capture images of rare photographs documenting Mr. Liem’s early years. At the display of family portraits commemorating the golden and diamond wedding anniversaries of Mr. Liem and his wife, the delegation paused to look at the photographs.

At the “Professional Managers” display area of Hall 2, the delegation read the profiles of the 40 professional managers who made outstanding contributions to the development of the Salim Group, including the retired head of QAF Limited.

After the visit, Hu Kun remarked, “We are deeply moved and inspired.” He added, “The memorial hall’s architectural design, symbolizing ‘fallen leaves returning to roots’, vividly conveys the nostalgia of overseas Chinese for their homeland. The diverse exhibits also poignantly illustrate the arduous entrepreneurial journey of overseas Chinese. Mr. Liem’s rags-to-riches story exemplifies the perseverance of Chinese entrepreneurs, while his philanthropic endeavors including funding education, hospitals, infrastructure, and hometown development reflect his enduring commitment to giving back to his hometown. This visit inspired us to carry forward Mr. Liem’s legacy of entrepreneurial hardship and selfless dedication in both business innovation and public welfare practices, and to better fulfill our corporate social responsibilities.” 

Photograph/Text: Liem Sioe Liong Memorial Hall