Family firms help maintain growth impetus

Companies that have flourished over generations sustain Asian economy

In 1873, Eu Kong left his hometown in southern China to seek his fortune in Malaysia. On arrival, he set up a shop that he named Yan Sang - which means caring for mankind in Chinese - supplying Chinese medicine and herbs.

Eu passed the mantle of this small firm on to his only son, Eu Tong Sen, who continued to expand the business, adding the family name to the brand. Today, Eu Yan Sang International is a listed entity in Singapore and Hong Kong.