'Bullying is a state of mind that can be changed' - Michael Teoh
Thriving Talents founder advocates for positive workplace environments
SHAH ALAM - Thriving Talents founder and a renowned advocate for personal development Michael Teoh Su Lim believes that bullying is a state of mind that can hinder growth, but changing damaging self-perceptions is the first step toward transformation.
Recognised as the National Youth Icon in the past, Teoh openly shared his experience of being bullied, which included being ridiculed and alienated.
He described these experiences as pivotal in shaping his journey to becoming a motivational speaker and entrepreneur.
Speaking to Sinar Daily recently, Teoh reflected on how bullying affects mental health and emphasised the importance of finding avenues to speak up.
"We cannot control what others do to us or how the environment presents itself, but we can control how we respond," Teoh said.
He stressed that addressing the bullying culture, especially in workplaces and schools, starts with individuals finding the courage to speak out.
Using his personal story of overcoming ridicule and exclusion, including being mocked for not being as affluent as his peers, Teoh said that both employees and leaders play a critical role in creating a supportive, bully-free environment.
"In companies today, professionals such as workplace coaches and counselors are engaged to guide employees through such episodes.
"However, it comes back to employees having the courage to speak up," he said.
Teoh highlighted the importance of fostering a positive and productive work environment through training, team building, and employee engagement.
His company, Thriving Talents, which he founded in 2012, focuses on helping organisations and leaders build happier, more effective teams.
He recalled starting as a freelance motivational speaker before becoming an entrepreneur, eventually expanding his company’s reach to 41 countries.
"That’s not bad for a Malaysian company," he said, reflecting on Thriving Talents’ global footprint and its recognition as a Malaysia Role Model Enterprise of the Year by Sabah's International Trade and Entrepreneurship Ministry.
When asked whether being bullied inspired his career, Teoh said, "Yes. It all started with me growing up as a bullying victim, reaching a pivotal moment where I chose to see life differently. That decision led to actions that brought me to where I am today."
He said that his journey involved developing the right mindset, techniques, and methods to overcome adversity, which he now teaches to others.
"You stop being a victim when you start managing your emotions to bring yourself to the next level and we cannot control what others do to us, but we can control how we respond," he stressed.
Teoh's achievements also distinguish him from his peers.
Starting a company at 24, meeting global figures like English business magnate Richard Branson and former US President Barack Obama, and delivering leadership workshops early in his career cemented his reputation as a leadership icon.
His company now trains Fortune 500 clients and continues to impact individuals worldwide.
Teoh remains committed to inspiring Malaysians, particularly those victimised by toxic environments, by promoting healthy coping mechanisms rooted in a positive mindset and actionable frameworks.
"Perseverance means focusing on the present and ignoring negativity," he said, highlighting the value of mindset and action in overcoming challenges.
Decades after overcoming his own struggles, Teoh continues to lead, inspire, and empower others to rise above adversity and achieve their fullest potential.
