Francis Lau Choo Yew is the Founder and Managing Director of LCY Development, a leading construction company specializing in building and civil engineering projects in Brunei Darussalam. Since its inception, LCY Development has successfully completed over 130 projects, employing a workforce of more than 300 people. Over the past decade, the company has undertaken projects exceeding B$400 million in value, working with both the Brunei Government and private sector.
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Competitive Edge in the Construction Industry
LCY Development thrives in Brunei’s competitive market by delivering superior quality, integrating innovative technology, and implementing sustainable practices. “We ensure unmatched craftsmanship in every project, integrating cutting-edge solutions to meet modern demands,” says Lau. Their commitment to exceptional customer service includes personalized attention and clear communication throughout the project life cycle.
The company prides itself on its robust project management capabilities, ensuring the timely delivery of projects within budget. “This holistic approach, from initial planning to final execution, ensures we not only meet but exceed client expectations, making us a preferred choice in the industry,” he says.
Educational and Career Background
Francis Lau graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Building with Honours from the University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, in 1984. In 1985, he joined the Public Works Department in Brunei Darussalam as a Quantity Surveyor and served for eight years before transitioning into private practice. He is now a Chartered Surveyor, Chartered Builder, and registered Quantity Surveyor, holding professional memberships in the United Kingdom, Australia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam.
Entrepreneurial Journey
Francis Lau’s entrepreneurial drive is fueled by a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to society. “The spirit of entrepreneurship is also propelled and enhanced by public recognition and appreciation towards this contribution,” he shares.
Beyond his personal interest in the construction industry, stories of successful entrepreneurs and business associates have further inspired him to build a company that stands out in the market.
Business Milestones and Achievements
In 1997, Francis Lau founded LCY Development Sdn Bhd in Brunei Darussalam. Between 2002 and 2013, he co-founded and became director of Imperco Sdn Bhd and Mega Project Development Sdn Bhd. He also founded LCY Development (M) Sdn Bhd in Malaysia, where he currently serves as Managing Director.
Between 2010 and 2020, he co-founded and led LCY Development Pty Ltd and L&L Group of Companies in Australia. From 2012 to 2015, he co-founded Golden Wang Holdings Pte Ltd and was appointed director of Progen Holdings Ltd, a public-listed company in Singapore.
His contributions to the industry have been recognized through numerous awards from Malaysia, Singapore, and European countries between 2008 and 2022, ranging from Outstanding Entrepreneur, Business Initiative Director, and Quality Achievements to Best Leadership and Innovation Awards.
Overcoming Challenges in the Industry
As a leader, Francis Lau acknowledges that maintaining work continuity and sustainability while supporting the existing workforce and equipment is one of his biggest challenges. To address this, he emphasizes staying competitive through consistent quality and efficiency while exploring overseas markets and securing new projects in both the public and private sectors.
Employee Development and HR Strategies
LCY Development invests in comprehensive learning and development programs for employees, focusing on advanced construction techniques, sustainable building practices, project management, and safety standards.
“We prioritize continuous education and training in emerging technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and green construction methods. Leadership and soft skills training are also integral to ensure our team is well-prepared and capable of managing complex projects efficiently,” Lau explains.
Managing a large workforce requires a balance of hands-on involvement and strategic delegation. “While I stay engaged in major HR decisions to ensure alignment with our company’s values and goals, I delegate day-to-day tasks to a competent HR team,” he says. A strong HR department is essential in fostering a positive work environment, ensuring compliance with regulations, and enhancing employee satisfaction and retention.
Commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility
Beyond business operations, LCY Development is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility (CSR). The company prioritizes sustainable building practices to minimize environmental impact, incorporating energy-efficient designs and eco-friendly materials.
LCY Development actively contributes to community development by recruiting fresh local graduates and promoting local employment. The company also supports charity organizations through financial contributions and participates in environmental conservation efforts, including tree planting campaigns, waste reduction initiatives, and proper waste disposal programs.
A Legacy of Excellence
Through innovation, sustainability, and a strong commitment to people and community, Francis Lau has positioned LCY Development as a leader in Brunei’s construction industry. His vision, leadership, and dedication to excellence continue to drive the company forward, ensuring long-term success and a lasting impact on the industry.
