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Case Study

Royal Selangor: The art of family diplomacy

By Joachim Schwass, Anne-Catrin Glemser and Martin Králik

6 pages

May 2014

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Reference: IMD-7-1500

One of Malaysia’s oldest businesses and most recognizable brands, Royal Selangor has a history of family conflict and company break-ups. In the past few decades, it has overcome this legacy by establishing a set of family institutions. The quest for family harmony is also mirrored in Royal Selangor’s growth strategy: The company has drawn on goodwill on the part of the Malaysia’s monarchical rulers, and has consistently supported the country’s push into international tourism, high-end manufacturing and luxury retail.

Learning Objective

In regions such as Southeast Asia, family-controlled companies have not only played an important business role but have also acted as agents of broader social, economic and nation-building change. This case belongs to a series of company cases that exemplify best practices in family, ownership, succession and business governance. It illustrates the unique perspectives that leading family-owned and family-controlled businesses in emerging markets in Asia bring to global learning on family business. It invites participants to learn about local family firms and understand their view on shaping positive and sustainable visions for the future, anchored in an increasingly global environment.

Keywords

Family Business, Culture, Conflict, Leadership, Generational Transition, Next Generation

Settings

Asia, Malaysia
Royal Selangor, Consumer Goods, Luxury Goods and Jewelry, Manufacturing
2013

Type

Field Research

Available Languages

English

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Case reference: IMD-2748 ©2026

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Organization Association Familiale Mulliez

Available Languages English