"With unwavering determination, the Department of Business Administration became his sole choice."
Raising in Penang, Malaysia, Law Choo Kiang embarked on a journey to Taiwan at the age of 19 to study in high school. Much like his peers, who were striving to get into their dream universities, Law Choo Kiang devoted his utmost efforts to achieve his goal. He amusingly recalled his steadfast determination to pursue studies in the Department of Business Administration. Consequently, he meticulously included all business administration programs on numerous university application forms. Ultimately, owing to his exceptional academic performance, Law Choo Kiang secured admission to the College of Law and Business at National Chung Hsing University (now known as National Taipei University).

Law Choo Kiang's unwavering desire to study in the Department of Business Administration was not a baseless stubbornness; it was rooted in his recognition of the potential within Taiwanese society at that time. In the 1980s, Taiwan was teeming with vitality and prosperity. It wasn't solely about economic growth; Taiwan stood proudly among the "Four Asian Tigers" alongside Singapore, South Korea, and Hong Kong. Furthermore, with the government's lifting of Martial Law, Taiwanese society underwent a new wave of democratization and localization. Within this transformative environment, the seeds of Law Choo Kiang's future involvement in public affairs began to germinate.

Recalling his decision to study in Taiwan, Law Choo Kiang highlighted the cost-effectiveness of higher education, the absence of language barriers in communication, and the manageable tuition fees that did not burden middle-class families. He also emphasized that a Taiwanese university diploma eased the application process for graduate programs in Europe and the United States.

" Taiwan has become a second home to me."
When asked whether he ever felt anxious about studying alone in Taiwan, Law Choo Kiang responded with unwavering confidence, "No." He explained that the people in Taiwan extended warm hospitality to Malaysian Chinese students. The two cultures shared commonalities in food, culture, and traditions. Moreover, Malaysian senior students in Taiwan were consistently eager to assist and support younger students, facilitating a swift adjustment to life in Taiwan. "The small campus on Minsheng East Road holds a special place in my heart," he added. Despite playful teasing from friends about not attending a typical large campus, the 20-year-old Law Choo Kiang viewed it as a prime location to immerse himself in the financial ambiance of the capital.

During his study at the College of Law and Commerce at National Chung Hsing University, Law Choo Kiang expressed profound gratitude for the guidance he received from the faculty. In particular, he highlighted the invaluable support from the then-director of the Department of Business Administration, Prof. Shi-An Liang, Prof. Ing-San Huang, and Prof. Chong-Guang Jhao. These three professors were not only dedicated educators but also compassionate mentors who left an enduring impact on Law Choo Kiang.

" Possessing both intelligence and physical strength is crucial. However, the valid key to success lies in one's attitude towards others and their ability to handle different situations. "
During his free time, Law Choo Kiang enjoyed various books, harboring a particular passion for management and philosophy. The convergence of these different realms of knowledge ignited an extraordinary journey in Law Choo Kiang's life. Beyond his reading interests, he was also a proficient badminton player, having been a member of a badminton school team in Malaysia. He actively participated in the National Intercollegiate Business Administration Sports Competition in Taiwan, where he emerged as the victor. Law Choo Kiang even composed his bachelor's thesis in English as a personal challenge and an avenue for enhancing his English proficiency.

After graduating, Law Choo Kiang began a career with Taiwanese-owned companies in China and Malaysia. He firmly believed that transitioning and adapting the knowledge acquired in the classroom to the workplace necessitated multiple adjustments. Instead of exclusively concentrating on mastering professional knowledge, he stressed the indispensability of personal attitudes and communication skills as crucial soft skills for achieving success. Effective teamwork and communication are pivotal for the smooth operation of a company. During this interview, Law Choo Kiang appeared as a friendly and warm mentor, offering valuable insights and aspiring to guide younger students in making well-informed decisions.

Furthermore, Law Choo Kiang mentioned Taiwan's "Southern Policy" from the early 1990s, which resulted in a substantial influx of Taiwanese businesses into Malaysia. Many Taiwanese firms have established deep roots in Penang over three decades. Presently, the companies that have set up operations in Malaysia primarily belong to the technology industry, including semiconductors, medical devices, precision electronics, and the service industry. These companies have experienced significant growth and development.

“Establishing a solid foundation among the rank and file as a stepping stone into the world of politics.”
Law Choo Kiang's journey into the realm of politics commenced with his involvement in the "Reformasi" movement in Malaysia in the year 2000, marking his entry into the field during a social reform and transformation period. He articulated his political objective in straightforward terms: to foster a just, diverse, progressive, and harmonious society where all ethnic groups in Malaysia can collectively reap the benefits of the nation's development. This goal, while modest in its essence, carries an ambitious undertone, with each of his endeavors akin to nurturing the seeds of ethnic diversity and integration.

During his initial term in politics, Law Choo Kiang held the position of a councilor for Penang state, with a primary focus on agricultural development and water management to alleviate the challenges faced by the populace. In this capacity, he advocated various farm reforms and water management policies. He successfully elevated the Penang durian brand to international recognition, consequently enhancing the per capita income of local fruit farmers. During this period, he gained insights into the administrative processes of the state council and honed his ability to liaise with the executive team effectively. His significant accomplishments led to his election as the Speaker of the Penang State Legislative Assembly in 2013.

Despite serving in the Penang State Legislative Assembly for over a decade, Law Choo Kiang is enthusiastic when discussing his "current position." He highlights that the role of a "qualified" Speaker is relatively straightforward—equally appreciated or criticized by both ruling and opposition parties simultaneously. A Speaker must remain impartial, and impartiality aligns with the Speaker's responsibilities and obligations.

"The primary duty of the Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly is to govern diligently and show unwavering love for the people."
During his decade in public office, Law Choo Kiang often faced questions about the similarity between the style of interpellation in Malaysia and that in Taiwan. With a smile, he clarified that the most crucial responsibility of the Speaker is to convene and conclude the agenda efficiently. Every council member in the chamber must adhere to the highest guiding principle—the rules of the State Legislative Assembly. Therefore, aside from engaging in professional council activities, members must exercise caution in their words. Any violations of the Assembly's rules are promptly addressed.

In Malaysia, the council system is divided into three levels: federal, state, and local. Law Choo Kiang served in the state council, which occupies the middle tier, with the federal government above and local governments below. Before each council meeting, he would collect meeting materials at least a month in advance. This involved coordinating with opposition parties regarding the issues members intended to raise, devising response strategies, and simulating potential scenarios during interpellation. Statutorily, the state council convenes sessions 2-3 times a year. However, this doesn't imply that the Speaker can rest during non-session periods. Per Malaysia's unwritten rules, each state Speaker also chairs the official ceremony committee. In other words, the Speaker is obliged to attend various official reception events.

Law Choo Kiang generously disclosed that the council chamber has additional responsibilities during non-session periods, such as allowing the use of the art exhibition hall for cultural events or opening it to foreign guests and the public for visits. The next time you visit the Penang State Legislative Assembly, remember to listen attentively to the tour guide—you might find Law Choo Kiang explaining the history of the Penang State Legislative Assembly.

"Promoting Chinese language education enhances Malaysia's competitive advantage."
With his deep concern for the people of Malaysia, Law Choo Kiang has dedicated significant efforts to promoting Chinese language education. Despite the official language of Malaysia being Malay, the development of Chinese language education has faced challenges. Nonetheless, Law Choo Kiang expresses gratitude for the dedicated educators who have laid a strong foundation in this field. The outstanding performance of Chinese school students has positioned Malaysia as one of the most proactive countries in promoting Chinese education, standing alongside China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

In recent years, with the ascendancy of China, not only Malaysian Chinese but individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds have voluntarily undertaken the learning of the Chinese language. Law Choo Kiang underscores that a multilingual population is a valuable asset for a country. Utilizing different languages provides a competitive advantage, and Malaysia is on a sustainable development path.

"He is a politician who cares about social justice and also a parent who loves his children."
In concluding the interview, we posed the question to Law Choo Kiang about whether he would choose to undertake the responsibility of being the Speaker if given the chance to rewind his life. Without hesitation, he responded affirmatively, expressing that he would. With a smile, he elaborated on his 23-year political journey, acknowledging the hard work and dedication required. Yet, when fruitful results are achieved, the sense of accomplishment surpasses words—according to Law Choo Kiang, being chosen as the Speaker represents the highest recognition from others. If people believe in your capabilities, why not give yourself a chance to prove it? Embracing challenges has rendered his life extraordinary.

Indeed, Law Choo Kiang, much like a caring parent, extended valuable advice to younger students. He emphasized the importance of diligent study, fulfilling responsibilities as students, and not solely concentrating on academic knowledge but also developing interpersonal skills and the ability to navigate setbacks. Reflecting on his journey, the once young and inexperienced youth has evolved into a father, and his children have chosen to study in Taiwan. We believe this inheritance will endure, passed down through generations, weaving a profoundly captivating chapter of life.