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What is the best job in the world? From timely encouragement and outstanding teamwork, to playing to her strengths and enjoying the fruits of her labour, the experience of Popular Malaysia’s Text and Assessment Merchandising Manager Hooi Yoke Siew might offer an answer. Even without stating anything overtly, much can be inferred from Yoke Siew’s demeanour when she talks about her work. Learning Anytime, Anywhere Yoke Siew’s 26 years in POPULAR comprise a majority of her life. Speaking about her work now and looking to the future, it becomes clear she constantly thinks about how best to promote products and learns from others. “I always look out for the good ideas from other departments or other examples in the retail industry. Even with good project plans, there must be a process of learning, absorbing, and thinking to integrate them and put them to use.” Outside of work, Yoke Siew spends time with her friends, shopping and trying out delicious food. When she encounters a retailer exhibiting a product or having a promotional event, she cannot help but stop to investigate the promotions or displays. “Friends frequently find that I’ve vanished during our shopping trips because I’ve been drawn to interesting product promotion plans.” To Yoke Siew, good teachers can be found everywhere in the retail industry, and she observes and learns from each one. A successful example of marketing is the best sort of teacher to Yoke Siew, and she derives a great sense of accomplishment and joy from racking her brains to come up with an effective plan. “The merchandising department is not simply responsible for buying stock, restocks, and selling of goods. We also ensure ample supply by working with publishers, draw up product sales plans with department colleagues, discuss their implementation with the operations department. This requires not only creativity but good communication skills.” By Ong Hooi Hoon (Malaysia) 文:王慧芬(马来西亚) Forging Ahead With Strong Backing 坚强后盾 砥砺前行 Text and Assessment Merchandising Manager Hooi Yoke Siew’s 26-year career in Popular Malaysia is a tale of finding one’s perfect job. 马来西亚大众课外书采购部经理许玉秀26年的职涯，即为“美好工作”的侧写。 20 - popularnews 137