Leoh E Mui (Lydia)

Lydia Leoh’s journey as Managing Director of Joyride Iron Fabrication Factory is a powerful testament to how women can break barriers in male-dominated industries. In the technical and operational world of metal fabrication, where strength, precision, and engineering expertise often define leadership, Lydia has not only held her own but has excelled in growing her business into a respected industry leader. Her success challenges the traditional norms and paves the way for more women to make their mark in fields typically led by men.

Under her leadership, Joyride has achieved remarkable growth, with sales jumping from 900K in 2022 to an impressive 1.98 million in 2023. This achievement is not merely a reflection of good business decisions but of Lydia’s commitment to innovation, quality, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her forward-thinking approach, which combines state-of-the-art technology with time-honored craftsmanship, has established Joyride as a top player in metal fabrication.

At the core of Lydia’s leadership philosophy is Self-Determination Theory (SDT), which emphasizes the need for autonomy, competence, and relatedness to fuel motivation. She has created an environment where her team is empowered to take ownership of their projects, innovate freely, and strive for excellence. By providing her employees with continuous training and development, Lydia ensures they remain at the cutting edge of their field. This sense of competence, combined with the autonomy to make decisions, has fueled not only the company’s growth but also the professional satisfaction of her team.

Lydia also fosters a strong sense of relatedness, building a workplace culture centered on teamwork, mutual respect, and open communication. This inclusive approach ensures that every employee feels valued and connected to the company’s vision. Her focus on nurturing a collaborative environment has enabled Joyride to tackle even the most complex projects with efficiency and precision, while creating long-lasting relationships with clients.

Her passion for women’s empowerment is just as integral to her leadership as her business acumen. Lydia is a strong advocate for women stepping into leadership roles, particularly in male-majority industries. She uses her own experience as a mentor, coaching women to break through barriers and pursue leadership with confidence. Through her training programs and speaking engagements, Lydia continues to inspire women to tap into their potential, proving that success knows no gender. Her focus on psychological empowerment—building resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills—has enabled many women to step into leadership roles and create lasting change in their organizations and communities.

Lydia’s story of empowerment doesn’t stop with her own success. She continues to dedicate herself to empowering others through training and coaching initiatives specifically aimed at uplifting women. By providing leadership development workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions, she helps women not only grow in their careers but also build the confidence to lead teams, manage businesses, and make a tangible impact. Lydia’s commitment to fostering a new generation of women leaders is part of her legacy, continuing the work of breaking barriers and expanding opportunities for women across all industries.

The recognition Lydia has received underscores her impact. Honored with prestigious awards like Malaysia Influential Women Entrepreneurs 2023 and the Excellent Entrepreneur 2023 in the Golden Phoenix Award, Lydia has cemented her position as a leading figure in business. Her inclusion in Britishpedia as one of the most successful people in Malaysia and Singapore further highlights her influence. Through her business success and advocacy for gender equality, Lydia continues to redefine what it means to be a female leader in industries dominated by men.

Ultimately, Lydia Leoh’s story is one of determination, innovation, and empowerment. By embracing the principles of SDT, fostering a culture of collaboration, and championing women’s leadership, she has built not only a thriving business but also a legacy of excellence and inclusion. Through her work at Joyride and her broader efforts to empower others through training and coaching, Lydia is truly shaping the future of business leadership and creating a ripple effect of empowerment for women everywhere.