I graduated & returned to Malaysia from USA during the economic crisis in 1998 and was told by the MAS steward that I will not find a job. I got hired the next day in a reputable private college as a 25 year young lecturer. I told my colleagues then that I was going to have my own college someday and they laughed at me for dreaming out loud. I bought a college in 2012 called PORTMAN College. Struggled but made it happen with great foundation for what we have built today. I shared my vision to my ex business partners & ex employees that we will be having our own PORTMAN Education Group that consist of College, International Schools, Pre Schools, Training Academy & Edtech with just a logo. They said I lost it that it was just way too hard & most left me in the most difficult of times. Almost went bankrupt but figured it out & stayed the journey. Today we have a thriving international education business that started 21 years ago in my 2nd bedroom apartment to 8 different education campuses that serve Malaysia, China & Indonesia.
So what’s the next BHAG?
1. 100 PreSchools in Malaysia & Indonesia by 2027.
2. 1000 PreSchools in South East Asia by 2030.
3. Public Listed Billion Dollar Education Group.
And for all Naysayers that have always laughed at all my BHAGs, thank you.
And for all those that have believed in my BHAGs and have stayed with me through the ups and downs more so the downs, thank you for being there. It is greatly appreciated.
I am a first generation entrepreneur that has just started. I am grateful for the opportunity. 
50 comments:
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey and vision Mr.Ernie. Your perseverance and belief in big dreams motivate us all to aim higher and push through challenges.
Nothing comes easy but everything is possible.
I’ve always believed in this quote since becoming a part of PORTMAN, and it truly reflects my personal journey. From being a college student involved in various projects and assignments to transitioning into a staff role, the journey has been 10 times tougher. Yet, through all the challenges, I’ve realized that I’m growing 10 times faster—without even noticing it at first.
I deeply appreciate the opportunities given by Mr. Ernie and PORTMAN Education Group, who have provided me with the right people and the right platform to learn and grow.
I’m also grateful that I can continue contributing to PORTMAN, the place that has transformed me inside and out!
Your journey is truly inspiring, Mr. Ernie. From humble beginnings to amazing success. I’m excited to see where your vision takes you next😃
What an incredible journey this has been, filled with ups and downs, but always moving forward with a clear vision and purpose. I am truly grateful for all the experiences, the lessons learned, and the people who have supported me along the way. For those who doubted and laughed at my dreams, I thank you it only fueled my drive to achieve more. And to those who believed in me, stood by me through the tough times, and helped build this vision, I cannot express how much I appreciate your loyalty and faith. The journey is just beginning, and I am excited for what’s ahead! Together, we will make it happen. 🙏
Believing in oneself, having visions and making visions come to reality; sounds like a great journey. From surviving to thriving. Thank you, Mr Ernie for PORTMAN, and being an entrepreneur who walks the talk.
Believing in oneself, having visions and making visions come to reality; sounds like a great journey. From surviving to thriving. Thank you, Mr Ernie for PORTMAN, and being an entrepreneur who walks the talk.
Believing in oneself, having visions and making visions come to reality; sounds like a great journey. From surviving to thriving. Thank you, Mr Ernie for PORTMAN, and being an entrepreneur who walks the talk.
Your story is truly inspiring! It shows that with determination and belief, even the toughest challenges can be overcome. Congrats on your amazing achievements, Mr Ernie! ☺️
-Teacher Dija-
Your journey is nothing short of inspiring. It’s incredible how you turned challenges into opportunities and built something so impactful despite the odds. Your resilience, vision, and determination are a testament to what’s possible when you stay true to your dreams. The naysayers may laugh, but your achievements prove the power of perseverance and belief. Wishing you even greater success with your BHAGs. 👏🏻
This is truly inspiring, Mr. Ernie! Your journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of believing in yourself even when others doubt you. Turning challenges into opportunities and staying true to your dreams despite the obstacles is a remarkable achievement. Your next BHAGs are nothing short of extraordinary, and with your unwavering determination and proven track record, they are destined to become reality. Wishing you continued success as you shape the future of education and inspire others along the way.
I am truly inspired by your journey, Mr Ernie. Seeing what you have accomplished motivates me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace challenges with confidence. Thank you for sharing your experiences they give me hope and encourage me to aim higher in my own journey.
Nurul Ain Fatehah binti Baharuddin
PORTMAN College Lecturer
Such an inspiring journey Mr. Ernie! Your experiences highlight the power of perseverance and staying true to your goals. Thank you for sharing. It’s a great reminder that challenges can lead to growth. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors! - Nurul Asyikin (PORTMAN College, Mines 2)
Your story is truly inspiring to us sir. You have turned all the challenges into stepping stones toward success. Congratulations on all you have achieved so far, and here's to even greater milestones ahead. The best is yet to come.
I just wanted to take a moment to express my admiration for your incredible journey as an entrepreneur, Mr Ernie. Your vision, dedication, and relentless drive have truly set apart as one of the most successful business leaders I know. The way you've built this company from the ground up is truly inspiring.
Your success serves as a constant source of motivation for all of us. I have no doubt that even greater achievements lie ahead for you. Wishing a continued success and growth in all our future endeavors!
-Samima
You've shown incredible resilience and vision, turning challenges into opportunities and building something remarkable from scratch. The bold goals you've set for the future are a testament to your determination and entrepreneurial spirit. I have no doubt that you'll achieve even greater success, and it's amazing to see how far you've come. Congratulations on your journey so far, and I wish you all the best as you continue to make your BHAGs a reality, Sir!
When people doubt your abilities or dismiss your dreams, it can feel discouraging. But instead of letting negativity bring you down, it became fuel to stay determined and prove them wrong. 💪🔥
- asyraf
Your journey shows the power of persistence and big dreams. Wishing you continued success with your future goals.
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey. Your determination and vision show how challenges can be turned into success. Your story reminds us to dream big and stay committed, no matter the obstacles. Congratulations on all you’ve achieved, and here’s to reaching even greater milestones! (Teacher Fikri)
Believing in ourselves is already a big step toward success, and having someone who believes in our dreams is a great blessing. Thank you for the sharing Mr. Ernie, it sometimes sparks something I rarely see in myself, the belief in my own potential.
Your BHAGs are bold and exciting! Expanding in key markets, leading the region, and achieving global recognition reflect your commitment to making a lasting impact in education. Wishing you immense success on this incredible journey!
This is such a powerful story of perseverance and vision. Your journey is a testament to what’s possible with hard work and belief in your dreams. Excited to see what’s next for PORTMAN and the impact it will have across Southeast Asia. Wishing you continued success as you conquer your BHAGs!
Teacher Rahm
Your journey is a remarkable source of inspiration. You've turned every obstacle into an opportunity for growth and success. Congratulations on all your accomplishments, and may you continue to reach even greater heights Mr.Ernie .
Your journey is a remarkable source of inspiration. You've turned every obstacle into an opportunity for growth and success. Congratulations on all your accomplishments, and may you continue to reach even greater heights Mr.Ernie .
This is such a powerful story of perseverance and vision. Your journey is a testament to what’s possible with hard work and belief in your dreams. Excited to see what’s next for PORTMAN and the impact it will have across Southeast Asia. Wishing you continued success as you conquer your BHAGs!
Teacher Rahm
This inspiring story has truly made me realize that the phrase, "Nothing comes easy, but everything is possible," is far more than just words. Only after facing challenges and overcoming obstacles can one truly grasp the depth of its meaning. Back when I was a student at PORTMAN College, I could never have imagined that one day, we would grow to have our own international schools, preschools, and multiple preschool branches.
I am incredibly grateful to PORTMAN for providing me with such a solid platform for growth and self-improvement. It not only shaped my skills but also instilled a belief that with perseverance, anything can be achieved. This journey is a testament to how vision and persistence can turn dreams into reality.
Your strategic planning and leadership truly made a difference in success. Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off. Congratulations on this well-deserved success!
Thank you for sharing your journey, Mr. Ernie. It’s a valuable lesson for all of us to stay focused, dream big, and appreciate the people who support us along the way.
Satu inspirasi kepada kami. Dari impian ke realiti dengan ketabahan dan usaha yang luar biasa!
-fadelah-
Yes, I agree with Mr. Ernie. Nothing comes easy—if we want to succeed, we must put in more effort and never give up. When I first learned about PORTMAN, it was just a college, and we didn’t even have an international school. But today, we have officially obtained our International School License, and we now have two kindergartens in our area! I believe Mr. Ernie’s BHAG can be achieved very soon. I’m always committed to delivering results and excited to witness PORTMAN’s future success
Your journey is a perfect example of how dreaming big and working even harder can turn the impossible into reality. Dream more, work more, you've certainly proven that it's the key to success. I have no doubt that your next BHAGs will be achieved too! You're truly amazing!
-akmadaud-
Your story is truly inspiring, and it’s amazing to see how your vision has shaped what we have today. Grateful to be part of this journey and excited to contribute to the future goals of PORTMAN Education!
Congratulations to you and the team! We made it! Our PORTMAN International School🎊 Throughout the journey, I learned the vision and action will lead us to the success. How we visualise and to make it happen. Greatful to have us as the mentor. The greater things will be happening in 2025!
Let's do it!
_Vicky_
Your journey has not only shaped the success of the company but has also profoundly impacted each of us on a personal level. You’ve encouraged us to push beyond our limits, to embrace challenges as opportunities, and to believe in our own potential. Watching you has been a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Thank you for your guidance, your vision, and the strength you've shown through it all. We are fortunate to learn from you and to be part of this journey with you. Your story is one of transformation, growth, and inspiring leadership, and we’re proud to be on this path together with you.
Congratulations on your huge achievement and well-deserved success!
The passion and talent you've exhibited in reaching this milestone are truly commendable. Am honored to be a part of this journey
Mr. Ernie's leadership always provides us with a very clear direction and vision for where we are heading, along with well-defined plans to achieve our goals.
An individual on their own would often struggle to find such clarity. Even within a group, if you ask most people, they might not clearly articulate what they truly want or where they aim to go. However, thanks to you, we are not only given an inspiring vision to pursue but also a structured plan and direction to make it a reality. Your leadership aligns everyone towards a common purpose, fostering unity and collaboration.
For those who truly understand and follow your guidance, the journey is not only fulfilling but also deeply appreciated. It’s not about going against your approach but embracing it wholeheartedly.
By following your leadership and working together towards our shared vision, I have experienced personal growth as well. This journey has positively impacted my own family, strengthening our relationships, uniting us, and helping us focus on meaningful endeavors. Together, we work towards both the organization’s and our family’s vision, elevating our standard of living and creating more opportunities for growth.
Finding such a path is rare, and I feel immensely grateful for everything I have gained under your guidance. From the beginning until now, your unwavering vision and mentorship have been transformative.
Thank you, Mr. Ernie, for being an extraordinary leader and a true first-generation entrepreneur. Let’s work together to turn our next BHAGs into reality!
Your journey from lecturer to a successful education entrepreneur is truly inspiring sir, showing that perseverance and vision can turn dreams into reality. Your future goals are bold, and it’s exciting to see how you've turned adversity into opportunity.
Dream big and stick to it, even when others doubt on us. Struggles and setbacks are part of the journey. Well 😊,a ppreciate the naysayers for pushing you harder and the believers for staying through the toughest times.😊
Thank you for sharing this truly inspiring journey! Your unwavering determination and ability to turn challenges into opportunities is a testament to true leadership and vision. It's incredible to see how your BHAGs have not only shaped the future of education but also inspired so many of us to dream big and work hard. I feel privileged to be part of this amazing journey and look forward to contributing to the next milestones you’ve set. Here's to building an even brighter future together! - indhu
One big challenge in pursuing our passion is getting through the naysayers and the negative comments. Thank you for inspiring us to not give up easily and be adamant about our dreams sir. To many more success on your way!
What an incredible story of perseverance and vision! Your journey from being told you wouldn’t succeed to building a thriving international education group is beyond inspiring. It’s a testament to dreaming big, staying resilient, and turning challenges into opportunities. Your bold goals for the future are ambitious yet achievable given your track record. Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished, and here’s to even greater success ahead! Can’t wait to see more from you!
Jane Raj
Thank you for sharing your inspiring journey, Mr. Ernie! Your vision and determination have been a driving force behind PORTMAN’s incredible growth and impact in the education sector. As part of the team, I feel truly privileged to contribute to this mission of transforming lives and shaping the future of education. Excited to support the next BHAG and continue striving for greater milestones together!
Your story really inspired me Sir. Even though you have went though alot struggled, you have succeeded and I think its really because of your have work and your dream big concept. I'm really looking forward for you BHAG Sir.
Your journey of resilience, determination, and unwavering focus is a powerful reminder that dreams can come true through perseverance and commitment. From overcoming obstacles to building a successful educational legacy, your path inspires many to pursue their aspirations with dedication. Wishing you continued success and a lasting impact in the field of education!
"From doubted dreams to an education empire this journey is a testament to grit, vision, and gratitude.
The organization's growth journey has been remarkably fast and extraordinary. It is an achievement that not everyone can accomplish.
-Lyana-
Nothing comes easy, but everything is possible. I’m truly grateful to have been part of PORTMAN College as one of the first batch of students and to have witnessed the incredible journey of growth, resilience, and determination. From the ups and downs to where we stand today—a thriving international education business that is both impactful and profitable, making a difference in the world—it has been an inspiring experience. Thank you for the opportunities given to me and for the trust placed in our team to support and grow our education business to the next level.
Nothing comes easy, but everything is possible. I’m truly grateful to have been part of PORTMAN College as one of the first batch of students and to have witnessed the incredible journey of growth, resilience, and determination. From the ups and downs to where we stand today—a thriving international education business that is both impactful and profitable, making a difference in the world—it has been an inspiring experience. Thank you for the opportunities given to me and for the trust placed in our team to support and grow our education business to the next level.
Ivy
Your journey is nothing short of inspiring!! A true testament to resilience, vision, and unwavering determination. From being told you wouldn’t find a job to building and owning PORTMAN College, your story exemplifies what it means to dream big and stay the course despite challenges Mr Ernie!
Truly impressive Mr.Ernie…Your journey shows the power of resilience and staying true to your vision. Wishing you even greater success as you continue shaping the future of education 🌈
There is never a goal too big if you put your mind to it. Being part of this ride and withnessing this firsthand has been a blessing and also awe-inspiring. Next step IPO.
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