The British Malaysian Society (BMS) has long played a quiet but important role in strengthening ties between the UK and Malaysia. In this article, Ms Mei Sim Lai – Chair of BMS – reflects on the society’s mission, her personal journey in the UK, and a lifetime dedicated to service, leadership, and giving back. Drawing on decades of experience across business, public service, and charity, she offers candid insights and practical advice, particularly for Malaysian students navigating life and opportunity in the UK.

Introduction to the British Malaysian Society (BMS)

The British Malaysian Society (BMS) is a not-for-profit membership organisation founded 42 years ago to promote positive bilateral relations between the UK and Malaysia. It was established by the then British High Commissioner, Sir Donald Hawley, in response to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s announcement of the “Buy British Last” policy.

BMS focuses its work on four main pillars: trade and investment, travel and tourism, culture, and education. Miss Mei Sim noted that the organisation welcomes Malaysians and non‑Malaysians alike, as well as anyone interested in UK–Malaysia relations, including students.

Distinguishing itself from institutions such as the High Commission – which formally represents Malaysia – BMS is open to non‑Malaysians. Compared to other Malaysian organisations, BMS has been operating for a long time and has developed the necessary structure, governance, and activities to provide services and programmes that people value. BMS also runs a mentorship programme for its members.

Miss Mei Sim’s Journey Beyond BMS

Miss Mei Sim’s journey in the UK began in 1970, when she left Malaysia to train as a chartered accountant. After qualifying, she became a partner at the firm where she trained and subsequently became involved in various business and women’s organisations. She described this phase of her life using the Cantonese phrase “撈世界”, which roughly translates to actively networking and navigating different social circles to uncover opportunities.

For many years, Ms Mei Sim was not involved with BMS. Reflecting on her later engagement, she shared:

“About 14 or 15 years ago, it was time for me to join the British Malaysian Society and to give back to the community.”

She became Chair of the British Malaysian Society in 2018. The role provided her with leadership development opportunities and a platform to promote the society more actively. Drawing on her experience, contacts, and ideas, she worked to create engaging and meaningful programmes for members.

Ms Mei Sim emphasised that she views her identity as a Chinese Malaysian as a strength rather than a limitation:

“I’m from a Chinese Malaysian background, but I’ve always used that as a positive thing.”

She observed that many people from different backgrounds prefer to stay in the background, believing that working hard and staying within the rules is sufficient. However, she argued that the time has come for individuals and communities to reflect more deeply on how they contribute to society, charities, and the broader goal of making the world a better place.

She cited her role as Chair of Television for the Environment, a charity that has been operating for over 40 years:

“We use the power of storytelling through films to highlight environmental and sustainability issues – and, very importantly, possible solutions.”

Ms Mei Sim encouraged people to identify areas that genuinely interest them, consider how they can help, and assess what level of time commitment they can offer. She views involvement in societies and leadership roles as an essential part of personal and professional development.

A Life of Service and Notable Achievements

Ms Mei Sim is involved in a wide range of organisations and has built an extensive network over decades. Her roles include chairing two of the UK’s leading women’s organisations and serving on the board of the Arab International Women’s Forum. She has also held public appointments for over 21 years, including serving on the board of St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington.

She spent seven years on the Senior Salaries Review Body, advising the Prime Minister on the pay of senior civil servants, judges, senior military officers, the Prime Minister, and Members of Parliament. In addition, she has been deeply involved with the City of London, having worked with the Institute of Directors in the City of London for 29 years. She is also the co‑chair of the Chinese Welfare Trust.

Previously, Ms Mei Sim served as a trustee of Womenkind Worldwide, supporting women in developing countries – most notably Dalit (“untouchable”) women in India and farming communities in north‑east Ghana.

Among her many memorable experiences was the temporary renaming of Kingsbury Underground Station to “Mei Sim” Station to mark International Women’s Day. In 2006, she was appointed one of Her Majesty’s Representatives in Greater London, and the following year she was given responsibility for the London Borough of Brent. In her capacity as a Deputy Lieutenant, she handled royal visits to the borough.

She is also the first Chinese person to become Master of the Worshipful Company of World Traders in the City of London. She hopes her achievements will inspire others – particularly Malaysians and women – to aspire to similar leadership roles.

Ms Mei Sim attributes her motivation to her genuine interest in people, new ideas, and building connections:

“I’m not doing it for money. I’m doing it because I’m very interested in meeting new people, helping people, and connecting people who can help each other.”

Personal Reflections and Philosophy

Ms Mei Sim attributes part of her success to being in the right place at the right time, but she also emphasises the importance of actively pursuing opportunities when they are manageable. She cautions against dismissing opportunities simply because one feels “too busy,” noting that momentum in life often builds through seizing small chances that later snowball into larger ones.

A deeply personal period – losing three family members and writing two eulogies over six years – prompted her to reflect on the meaning of life. Through this, she realised that accumulating wealth does not necessarily lead to happiness. Instead, her motivation shifted towards contributing to society, helping others, and practising kindness.

One of her favourite aspects of living in the UK is its culture, traditions, and sense of fairness. Her involvement with the City of London reflects her appreciation for its traditions and its openness to talent and contribution. She notes that many of her achievements were possible because opportunities were made accessible to her.

Despite having lived in the UK for 55 years, Ms Mei Sim maintains close ties with Malaysia. Coming from a family of ten, she stays in regular contact with her relatives, highlighting how technology – particularly WhatsApp – has made communication easier through shared photographs and stories.

Advice for Malaysian Students in the UK

When discussing generational differences, Ms Mei Sim observed that today’s students place greater emphasis on working for organisations whose values align with their own, particularly regarding environmental and social issues. She acknowledged the intense pressure Malaysian students face to achieve strong academic results but emphasised the importance of balance.

She encouraged students to focus on developing a well‑rounded personality, acquiring diverse skills, and building meaningful networks. Students, she advised, should make the most of their time in the UK by travelling, meeting new people, and – crucially – giving back to society.

Ms Mei Sim also urged students not to be afraid to ask for help when needed, while being prepared to stand on their own two feet. She cautioned against tunnel vision on academics alone and encouraged students to reflect on both short‑ and long‑term goals. From a practical standpoint, she warned students to be vigilant about scams, particularly in the rental market.

When asked how Malaysian students can give back to the community, she stressed the importance of first identifying personal interests. For example, students passionate about sustainability could get involved in related societies or initiatives, much like her own involvement with Television for the Environment.

She highlighted that charity is not limited to financial donations. Students can contribute by volunteering their time and skills – especially by leveraging Gen Z strengths in areas such as social media, digital communications, or coding.

Her final message was a reminder that life is a journey and ultimately too short. She encouraged students to enrich their lives, help others, and prioritise time with friends and family:

“It’s not all about getting good results – it’s about developing an all‑rounded personality, acquiring different skills, and networking to make useful contacts.”

“People think that helping charities means giving money – but it’s a lot more than that.”

Conclusion

Although Miss Mei Sim enjoyed a successful commercial career as a chartered accountant and firm partner, she places far greater value on leaving a legacy of service. Her life has been dedicated to charities, public service, and community leadership, guided by the belief that true fulfilment comes from contribution rather than accumulation.

She concludes that life is not about making as much money as possible, but about finding purpose through helping others and being kind. Her ultimate advice is simple yet powerful: life is short, and it should be lived fully – by enriching oneself, supporting others, and cherishing time with family and friends:

“Life is too short… life is a journey – you should do whatever you want to do to enrich your life, to help others, to spend more time with friends and family!”