Daily Express Subscriber
Sign in to your account.

Kuala Lumpur: The EY organization today announced that Nicole Lim Xui Jhi, CEO of Empire Sushi Sdn. Bhd. and EY Emerging Entrepreneur Of The Year 2022 Malaysia, has been named to the Asia-Pacific Entrepreneurial Winning Women™ Class of 2026.

▪ The program recognizes top women entrepreneurs across the region.

▪ Empire Sushi Sdn. Bhd.’s rapid growth and upcoming initial public offering (IPO) spotlight Malaysia’s rising entrepreneurial landscape.

She joins 22 outstanding women founders from across the region who are leading some of Asia-Pacific’s most dynamic and fast-growing businesses.

The EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women™ program is a bespoke executive platform that supports high-potential, women-led businesses with strategic insights, global networks and experienced advisors to help founders scale with confidence and build long-term value.

This year’s cohort spans 12 markets and industries including consumer products, life sciences, industrials, infrastructure, energy, media to professional services.

Collectively, the 2026 class generated over US$1.6 billion in revenue in 2025 and employs more than 30,000 people across Asia-Pacific.

Founded in 2011, Empire Sushi has grown from a two-person operation into one of Malaysia’s most recognisable quick-service F&B brands, with over 130 outlets nationwide and 1,000 employees.

The company recorded RM235 million in revenue in 2025 and is currently preparing for its initial public offering (IPO) ahead of its planned listing on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad later this month.

Philip Rao, program director of EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Malaysia and Partner at Ernst & Young Consulting Sdn. Bhd. says: “Nicole’s inclusion in the Asia-Pacific EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women program reflects the recognition of the endearing spirit, purposeful growth and sustainable impact she has showcased as she continues Empire Sushi’s successful business trajectory.

At EY, we are committed to identifying and supporting highpotential entrepreneurs such as Nicole whose ambition, vision and ability to scale sets her apart.”

Loletta Chow, Co-Executive Sponsor, EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women Asia-Pacific, adds: “This year’s cohort reflects the depth, diversity and momentum of women led businesses across AsiaPacific.

These leaders are building resilient, future-focused organizations and creating meaningful impact at scale. We are delighted to welcome them into the EY Winning Women community and look forward to supporting their continued growth.”

The Asia-Pacific program is part of a worldwide community of EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women community, which began in 2008. Today, the program connects more than 1,200 women entrepreneurs in more than 60 markets worldwide.

For more information on the Asia-Pacific EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women program and its 2026 cohort, visit https://www.ey.com/en_my/entrepreneurial-winning-women-asia-pacific/class-of-2026.

For more information on the global program, visit ey.com/winningwomen.