Businesses are evaluated based on excellence attained in the different fundamental areas, which are pertinent to every organisation. As such the spectrum is broad and will cut across divisions of sectors.

The Award categories and criteria are as follows:

• SOBA1 Technology / Online Business / ICT

  Awarded to the local enterprise that effectively uses Information and Communications Technology to enhance their products and services, giving them global reach with minimum resources.
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• SOBA2 Best Use of Media

  Awarded to the local enterprise that knows how to employ the many different media available to promote their products and services.
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• SOBA3 People's Choice of Outstanding Malaysian Brand

  An opportunity for Malaysians and Star readers to vote for their favourite local enterprise based on information of the shortlisted candidates posted on the organizer's website. This award goes to the local enterprise that has invested in building a strong Malaysian brand that is valued and appreciated by Malaysians.
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• SOBA4 Community

  Awarded to a local enterprise that is strong in corporate social responsibility. An example of this is a local enterprise that apportions part of its profits and other resources to serving the needs of the community.
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• SOBA5 Best Employer

  Human capital is one of the most vital resources that determine the success of a local enterprise. In recognition of employers who have demonstrated commitment towards human capital, this award is given to a local enterprise, which is positioned as a leading organisation for which to work.
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• SOBA6 Environment

  Awarded to the local enterprise that exhibits high environmental awareness, particularly with regard to their production facilities and procedures, specific environmental programmes or initiatives undertaken and/or as part of the local enterprises overall vision and mission.
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• SOBA7 Global Market Award

  Awarded to the local enterprise that has made an impact in the global market and excelled in international networking, with at least half of its revenue being generated from exports.
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• SOBA8 Entrepreneur of the Year

  Awarded to the most outstanding entrepreneur who has propelled his/her company forward with vision, innovation and farsightedness. The applicant should have demonstrated exemplary management and leadership skills with an admirable and profitable track record being achieved for the local enterprise.
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• SME of the Year

  Applicants for this award must meet the official Malaysian government's definition of a Small-to-Medium sized Enterprise. This award will be awarded to the local enterprise, which has received the overall highest ratings and is generally the best in the market with exemplary track records in most areas. A local enterprise, which ranks high in many of the award categories listed above is likely to be a frontrunner for this encompassing and illustrious award.