In The Hot Seat: Marketing Leaders Under The Spotlight

Not every valuable conversation happens on a keynote stage.

Sometimes, the most memorable insights come from the unscripted moments where the tough questions, unexpected stories, career lessons, and honest reflections that rarely make it into polished presentations.

That is exactly what Spotlight Sessions at the Malaysian Marketing Conference 2026 is designed to deliver.

Created as a rapid-fire Q&A format, these 15-minute sessions place speakers directly under the spotlight for candid conversations that are quick, unpredictable, and packed with perspective. From career crashes and bold pivots to business breakthroughs and lessons learned the hard way, this is where delegates get to hear the stories behind the titles.

This year’s Spotlight Sessions bring together an impressive lineup of industry leaders with diverse experiences across branding, banking, entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership.

Leading the sessions is Santharuban Thurai Sundaram, Former CEO of Etika Group of Companies and the inaugural Malaysian CMO of the Year award winner. With years of leadership experience behind some of the region’s most recognised brands, Santharuban brings a wealth of knowledge on scaling businesses, brand leadership, and navigating market shifts.

Joining him is Adam Wee, Former Group CMO of Maybank and CIMB Group, now Founder and CEO of ExplorAR. Having moved from corporate leadership into the tourism tech space, Adam offers a unique perspective on transformation, innovation, and building ventures from the ground up.

Also taking the stage is Lisette Sheers, Founder and Creative Director of NALA Designs. Known for her work at the intersection of design, branding, and business, Lisette will bring a creative lens to conversations around entrepreneurship and brand-building with purpose.

Rounding out the lineup is Rudy Khaw, Former CEO of AirAsia brand co. and Founder of Lobby Hours. With experience spanning branding, hospitality, and community-led ventures, Rudy offers practical insights on relevance, reinvention, and building brands people genuinely connect with.

Spotlight Sessions are intentionally fast-paced and lightly structured, giving audiences something different from traditional conference sessions: honest banter, practical takeaways, and conversations that feel human.

FEARLESS isn’t always rehearsed.

Sometimes, it’s being willing to answer the questions no one saw coming.

The 15th Malaysian Marketing Conference comes roaring back on 21st May, 2026 at KLGCC Convention Centre featuring real-world market experiences from 14 speakers across the industry.

Get your tickets now at https://marketingmagazine.com.my/shop/conference/malaysian-marketing-conference-2026/