Superdrug-owner AS Watson’s Group CEO has been named as one of Fortune's Most Powerful Women in Asia 2025.
Dr. Malina Ngai, who has served at the helm of the retailer since 1 May 2024, placed sixth in the US business magazine’s annual ranking, specifically as one of the top ten retail leaders.
The award was presented to Ngai at the Fortune Innovation Forum gala dinner held in Kuala Lumpur on 18 November.
Ngai spoke about ‘the science behind a 185-year company’ during the event, sharing insights on the international health and beauty retailer.
“Leading a company with 185 years of history is both an honour and a challenge,” said Ngai.
"Heritage gives us credibility, but relevance keeps us alive.
“Tradition gives us roots, but innovation gives us wings."
Ngai also shared how sports have shaped her leadership style, helping her to deal with pressure, rapid decision-making, and highlighting the importance of teamwork and trust.
She added: "What sports have taught me is a kind of true resilience that no business school can teach.
“As a competitive athlete, you train for months for just a few minutes of performance.
“That focus, anticipation, perseverance and the spirit of never easily giving up – that is the essence of resilience."
The accolade comes ahead of AS Watson approaching its 185th anniversary, as the business doubles down on its use of data and artificial intelligence (AI) to support consumer personalisation – without compromising on “human interaction”.
Ngai called the business “a technology-powered company with a human soul”.
AS Watson operates more than 17,000 stores across 31 markets.