Being hands-on is the name of the game for Madam Mary Chia, the executive chairman and founder of beauty and slimming company Mary Chia Holdings.

The 63-year-old said that she personally tests her products before rolling them out to the public.

My Paper catches up with Madam Chia on her business, which was founded about 30 years ago.

There are now many companies here like Mary Chia Holdings. How is your business different?

I bring in a lot of new machines and products which are different.

I will bring in only products which I am very sure will produce results. I will personally try out the products.

We source our products from Japan and Italy. There is quality control.

A few years ago, the company experienced a dip in profits. How did it overcome that?

Of course, there will always be situations like that. They are not usually serious, though.

We choose our products very carefully, so we may be a bit slower (in introducing them) than others. This could be a reason that our profits dropped for a short period of time.

What do you think of the beauty industry now?

If you have good products, and you can produce results, you don't have to worry at all.

Women are always worried that when they lose weight, they will become flatter with regard to their chest or buttocks.

With our products, you will see results in the right places. Our products will also give customers definition. Instead of just losing weight, they will also get toned arms and legs.

What is your opinion on fad diets?

They may work for a short period of time, but they are definitely not sustainable. If a customer is young, we will recommend exercise.

We do not encourage our clients to skip meals. We provide them with healthier alternatives, so that they can still enjoy food without feeling much guilt.

It is all about self-control. If you eat three times more than others do, you will definitely gain weight.

Have you ever thought of retiring?

No, I have never entertained that thought. Helping people lose weight and achieve their ideal body type fills with me with satisfaction.

I am not ready to let go of this feeling just yet. I don't want to stop.

Furthermore, I've been in the beauty industry for about 30 years. I am one of the pioneers in the industry.

Any tips for aspiring entrepreneurs?

You have to be strong. Starting a business is not easy, and you will face many obstacles along the way.

You will feel stressed, but you should stay determined.

The trick is to get back up on your feet when you get knocked down.

Success cannot be achieved within a day. It is a step-by-step process.

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