“When biblical values guide our business decisions, we build trust and environments where customers, businesses and the community thrive,” says Tan Sri Tan Koon Swan.
Speaking to 100 Christian leaders and business owners at the launch of Tyrannus Network International (TNI) on 11 January, the former MP and business magnate urged believers to redefine success at work.
“Faith challenges us to view setbacks not as failures, but as opportunities to grow and learn, to innovate and see possibilities where others see barriers. By anchoring our work in faith… We can not just succeed, but also serve,” said the patron of Tyrannus Online Seminary (Tyrannus) and an established marketplace leader.
TNI is an initiative of Tyrannus, a digital seminary designed to train and equip believers with grounded theology and biblical perspectives.
Success is more than dollars and cents
“Let us redefine success; it’s not measured by just our balance sheets but the lives we touch. We can use different values and virtues to develop business models… [with] biblical principles such as integrity, compassion, humility and resilience,” Tan Sri Tan said with gentle and firm conviction.
Tyrannus Online Seminary co-founder Dr. Tan Tek Seng said workplace Christians have a unique calling to model biblical values and honour Christ as mission-focused businesspeople.
“There is incredible impact we can have as a united community of business executives and professionals… who understand that work is not just a means to an end but a vital part of our spiritual journey,” he said.
The launch event was held at His Sanctuary of Glory Church, KL, with an opening prayer by Dato’ Hoh Hee Lee.
The pilot chapter of TNI was also opened for application during the launch.
Pastor Eric Mao, who will be the business chaplain of the pilot chapter, shared the unique concept that TNI is modeled after: the Moravian mission.
“In the Moravian model, a business leader and a business chaplain (providing spiritual mentoring) work hand in hand. If one person can do both, even better,” he said enthusiastically.
TNI members will undergo a core curriculum that is tailored to business and marketplace. Those who successfully graduate after 2.5 years will earn a Certificate of Christian Ministry from the seminary (30 credits), and can be stacked towards a diploma.
Work is not separate from worship
Marcus Liew, the business leader of the TNI pilot chapter, then took the stage and explained benefits on the business front.
From exclusive seminars to curated mentorship programs, members will also be part of the Blessings Initiative, where everyone in the chapter will receive prayer, referrals and mentoring.
Furthermore, weekly lunches are organised for chapter members to expand their business network and grow spiritually.
“Are we climbing the wrong stairs in life? It’s so important to work for Him to find success. We are here to journey with you to live a purposeful life, one that is most fulfilled,” the entrepreneur said.
Liew and education business owner Edward Chew also shared personal testimonies of overcoming significant hardship, supported by the Tyrannus community. After the event and luncheon, Tan Sri Tan shared more of his personal experiences in a coffee table chat with Marcus and Pr Eric.
Dr Tan, who has helped Christian businessmen transact around RM1 billion so far, said fervently that ultimately, true success is not measured by balance sheets but by our obedience to God’s calling.
“Let us unite in prayer for our businesses and communities. Our work is not separate from our worship. Let us go forth and advance His kingdom one business at a time,” he finished by saying.
TNI Membership is curated for Christians but open to all non-Muslims. For more information on the online seminary, TNI netwok and membership details, click here or email tyrannusoffice@gmail.com.
