In the world of entrepreneurship, there are those who follow the conventional path, and then there are pioneers who choose to blaze their trail, defying norms and challenging taboos. Ceylyn Tay, a name synonymous with dedication, determination, and leadership, belongs to the latter group. Her remarkable journey from the owner of a small dim sum restaurant in Ipoh to the recipient of the prestigious 'Ipoh - The City of Millionaires Leadership Award' is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence and her daring vision to redefine the norms.
A Vision Takes Shape
Ceylyn's journey began as an entrepreneur with a bold mission – to introduce halal dim sum and pau to the world. In 2018, she co-founded Team Some Sdn Bhd and opened the first Canning Dim Sum restaurant in Ipoh. The vision was clear: to create a brand that not only celebrates the rich tradition of Chinese cuisine but also adds a modern twist, all while adhering to strict halal standards.
One of the defining moments of Ceylyn's journey was obtaining a series of certifications, including Halal certification, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), MeSTI (Food Safety and Quality Assurance), HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points), VHM (Veterinary Health Mark), and ISO 22000 for Food Safety Management. These certifications were pivotal in allowing Team Some to expand its reach beyond Malaysia.
Breaking Taboos
The path Ceylyn chose was not without its challenges. She faced resistance and skepticism from various quarters. As a Chinese entrepreneur venturing into the halal industry, she challenged stereotypes and societal norms. Traditional dim sum had long been associated with non-halal ingredients, and Ceylyn's choice to offer halal dim sum was groundbreaking.
A Commitment to Quality
Ceylyn's commitment to quality and her vision to make halal dim sum accessible to a diverse customer base became the driving force behind her venture. She knew that to succeed in this endeavor, she needed to obtain essential certifications to ensure the authenticity and safety of her products. Her approach to using natural, high-quality ingredients and avoiding artificial additives set her brand apart and established a new standard of excellence in the competitive world of dim sum.
Global Reach
Ceylyn's leadership and strategic vision opened doors to international markets, particularly in the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, and Kuwait. Their products also found success in locations as diverse as Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Melbourne, Australia.
(Ceylyn Tay receiving the 'Ipoh - The City of Millionaires Leadership Award' from founder Harry Seggu)
The 'Ipoh - The City of Millionaires Leadership Award'
Ceylyn's journey reached a pinnacle when she was honored with the 'Ipoh - The City of Millionaires Leadership Award.' This award recognizes individuals who have not only achieved personal success but have also made significant contributions to their communities and industries. Ceylyn's leadership in introducing halal dim sum and her dedication to creating opportunities for her employees have had a lasting impact on the industry and the region.
Looking to the Future
Ceylyn's vision for the future is clear - to make Team Some Sdn Bhd the leading dim sum brand in Southeast Asia and a prominent international player. She aspires to create an international outlet brand for healthy halal dim sum, a venture that would not only benefit her company but also make Malaysians proud.
Ceylyn Tay's journey is a testament to the power of breaking barriers and defying norms to create something truly remarkable. Her pioneering spirit has not only made halal dim sum accessible but has also set a new standard for the industry. Her story is a shining example of how entrepreneurship can challenge conventions and pave the way for innovation. Ceylyn's journey is an inspiration to those who dare to step into uncharted territories and make a lasting impact. It's a reminder that personal success is not just about individual achievement; it's also about reshaping industries and leaving a legacy of excellence.