Tan Holdings celebrates 40 years in Micronesia

What began as a decision to extend a shipping and trading business from Hong Kong to the Western Pacific has led to the founding of Tan Holdings, a family business that has grown and diversified substantially through the years.

This year, Tan Holdings is celebrating 40 years of doing business in Micronesia and 30 years in the CNMI, thanks to its founding president, Dr. Tan Siu Lin, who laid the groundwork for the family holdings company and whose vision gave birth to an economic powerhouse in the region.

The 80-year-old Tan and his wife, Lam Pek Kim, were at the forefront of the anniversary program held at the newly renovated lobby of Saipan Grand Hotel in Susupe, where family members were joined by government officials, business leaders, and company executives.

A Polynesian dance group welcomed guests at the lobby, while the Marianas High School Rhythm and Harmony Glee Club and the MHS Chorale sang the U.S. and CNMI national anthems.

Willie Tan, Dr. Tan Siu Lin’s second son, said in his opening remarks that Tan Holdings has worked with various business partners, several government administrations, dedicated employees, and has received the support of the communities to which it belongs in its 40 years of existence.

“We will not be where we are today without the support of our business partners and friends in the community,” said Willie Tan, adding that Tan Holdings continues to work with the community to build the economy, generate jobs, and develop social and environmental initiatives for the CNMI.

Willie Tan assured Tan Holdings’ continued commitment to help build the economy, generate jobs, develop and sustain social and environmental initiatives in the CNMI, which he called his “second home.”

This commitment will be further established with the scheduled launching of Tan Holdings’ latest venture, Saipan Air, which is expected to boost the island economy by increasing tourist arrivals, generating more revenue for local businesses, and creating jobs for the island residents.

“We may not be a big airline company but we have the best interest of the Commonwealth in our hearts when we decided to put up this business,” added Willie Tan.

Jerry Tan, another of Dr. Tan Siu Lin’s sons, emphasized that tourism is the “economic engine” of the islands, which is why Saipan Air “is something that we feel we must do.”

“We have seen airlines come and go,” said Jerry Tan. “We certainly hope that will not be the case with us. We’re working very hard to make it successful.”

Marianas Visitors Authority board chair Marian Aldan-Pierce said in an interview that no other company besides Tan Holdings would step up to the plate to address the issue of lack of air seats to the CNMI.

“That really shows that they are very committed to the region and the people here. It’s a wonderful organization and thank God that Dr. Tan had the foresight 40 years ago to come out to this region and build what they have today. I wish them absolutely nothing but the best,” she told Saipan Tribune.

Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, in his remarks, congratulated Tan Holdings for all its accomplishments and contributions to the community. “Despite our fair share of economic challenges, Tan Holdings continues to be a major player in our economy and an exemplary contributor to our community.”

Fitial, CNMI Delegate Gregorio Kilili Sablan, the Senate, House of Representatives, and the Saipan Municipal Council all expressed accolades to Dr. Tan Siu Lin and the Tan Holdings in the form of commemorative resolutions and plaques of appreciation.

In turn, Dr. Tan Siu Lin led a series of donations that uphold his and his son Jerry Tan’s cherished causes: education and sports. (See related story).

“As we celebrate, we also want to have the opportunity to say thank you and give back to the CNMI and the people for being so supportive,” said Jerry Tan in an interview after the program.

Although many businesses are closing down in the CNMI, Jerry Tan noted that he still believes in the Commonwealth and that the local economy can be turned around by having a stable air service in the islands, which will be made possible by Saipan Air.

“I remain cautiously optimistic that we will have a stronger economy and we will see more businesses open up,” he added.

Yesterday’s guests were treated to a sumptuous luncheon feast at the hotel’s Barefoot Beach Bar immediately after the program.