The co-working sector in South East Asia is evolving rapidly, with Malaysia playing an increasingly central role in attracting startups, remote teams, and global firms seeking a regional base. At the helm of this transformation at CEO Suite is Paul MacAndrew, newly appointed chief executive officer, who brings more than two decades of international leadership experience to the role.
In this exclusive interview with News Hub Asia (NHA), MacAndrew discusses his priorities for driving growth in Kuala Lumpur and beyond, from harnessing AI to reshape workspace solutions to positioning Malaysia as a launchpad for expansion into ASEAN’s fast-growing markets.
NHA: The co-working sector in South East Asia has seen rapid growth, particularly in urban hubs like Kuala Lumpur. How do you see Malaysia’s role evolving within this regional trend, and what opportunities are you eyeing in this space?
MacAndrew: Malaysia is increasingly emerging as a strategic hub within South East Asia for companies of all sizes. Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant startup scene, growing foreign investment, and government initiatives to foster innovation position Malaysia as a key gateway for regional expansion.
At CEO Suite, we see immense opportunities in catering to both local entrepreneurs and international companies seeking flexible, premium workspace solutions and business services. Malaysia’s strategic location, diverse talent pool, and evolving infrastructure will be a catalyst for CEO Suite to develop and expand our business.
NHA: As the new CEO, what are your immediate priorities for driving growth in a competitive and dynamic market like Kuala Lumpur?
MacAndrew: My immediate focus is on strengthening our value proposition through digital transformation and enhancing our already exceptional customer experience. We plan to expand our portfolio of premium spaces, integrate AI technology, and build strategic partnerships with building owners and developers with Kuala Lumpur.
Additionally, understanding evolving customer needs – particularly around hybrid work models – is critical. We are committed to agility, ensuring our offerings are flexible, scalable, and aligned with market demands to drive sustainable growth.
NHA: Foreign investment into Malaysia’s innovation and startup ecosystems is increasing. How is CEO Suite positioning itself to attract international startups and remote teams setting up regional bases here?
MacAndrew: We’re positioning ourselves as the preferred partner for international startups and remote teams by offering tailored workspace solutions that emphasise flexibility, community, hospitality, end-to-end business services and technology. Our centres are strategically located in key business districts with world-class amenities and infrastructure.
Moreover, we’re actively fostering an ecosystem that supports networking, mentoring, hybrid work solutions and collaboration, making it easier for foreign companies to establish regional bases.
NHA: The integration of AI, automation, and smart office technology is reshaping how shared workspaces operate. How do you plan to leverage tech to enhance the member experience and streamline operations?
MacAndrew: Technology is at the core of our strategy. We are investing in AI-powered booking systems, smart access controls, and office management tools to create seamless, experiences for our members. These innovations improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and provide real-time insights into space utilisation. Our goal is to create smart, integrated workplaces that adapt to the evolving needs of modern businesses.
NHA: Work behaviour has undergone a major transformation since the pandemic, with hybrid and remote models now the norm. How is CEO Suite helping businesses adapt to these shifts, and what trends do you think are here to stay?
MacAndrew: We’re committed to providing flexible workspace solutions that accommodate hybrid and remote work models. This includes offering flexible leasing options, scalable memberships, day-office packages and access to a variety of workspace formats – from private offices to co-working lounges and meeting rooms.
We offer a complete end-to-end solution whatever the needs of a company or individual. We also facilitate community-building events and networking opportunities to combat remote work’s social isolation.
Trends like hybrid work, flexible scheduling, and the emphasis on work-life balance are here to stay, and we’re continuously innovating to support these shifts by creating adaptable, technology-enabled environments that promote productivity and collaboration.
NHA: Malaysia is often described as a gateway to ASEAN. How are you capitalising on this geographic and strategic advantage to turn CEO Suite into a regional launchpad for startups and SMEs?
MacAndrew: Our strategy leverages Malaysia’s position as a gateway to ASEAN by creating a network of premium spaces across key cities in the region. We are fostering partnerships with regional accelerators, government agencies, and international firms to position CEO Suite as the go-to platform for startups and SMEs looking to expand regionally.
By offering seamless connectivity, multilingual support, and tailored services, we aim to make Kuala Lumpur and our other locations attractive launchpads for regional growth, helping companies tap into ASEAN’s fast-growing markets with ease.
NHA: Looking ahead, what partnerships or expansion, either within Malaysia or across the ASEAN region, can we expect under your leadership to solidify your company’s position in the co-working industry?
MacAndrew: We plan to deepen collaborations with government initiatives, technology providers, and regional business chambers to enhance our ecosystem. Additionally, our growth will focus on asset-light expansion through strategic partnerships with landlords, enabling us to scale efficiently across the region.
CEO Suite is a trusted regional operator known for prioritising customer satisfaction and fostering strong landlord partnerships. Our reputation with customers and partners positions us exceptionally well to accelerate growth. Our focus is on building a connected, innovative network of spaces that serve as catalysts for regional business growth.
NHA: Thank you.
As CEO Suite charts its next chapter under Paul MacAndrew’s leadership, the company is building on flexibility, digital transformation, and Malaysia’s position as a gateway to ASEAN to strengthen its foothold in the co-working industry. With hybrid work and technology-driven solutions now shaping the future of business, MacAndrew’s vision underscores how premium workspaces are becoming not just places to work, but platforms for regional growth and collaboration. 