Reviews

There aren't many people who have the ability to enter your life and ignite growth and mutual transformation, leaving a lifelong lasting effect on you.

Dato’ Beatrice is definitely one of those people in my life. I am always in awe of her vibrant personality and positive influence each and every time I have the privilege to be in her presence.

She is the kind of person who consistently and constantly inspires me and always challenging me as she introduces new perspectives and opportunities. Whenever we have a meeting with our team members , they just cannot cope or keep up with the two of us and I do belief they think “ why are we even in the room!”.

Dato’ Beatrice brings new meaning to the words “ strong woman”. She has been through so much not just in her personal life but in her work life as well. It is so astonishing how she not only managed to rise above all these trials and tribulations but came out better , even stronger and has become a huge success!

She has never allowed anyone or anything to take her down. Her story is real. Her story motivates, encourages self-discovery and leads us towards transformative experiences. It gives hope and becomes an instant driving force for any woman or girl out there who believes in their rights to embrace independence and who beliefs in the fight for gender equality.

Her story is about an exceptional soul who strives every single moment in a day for 7 days a week, 365 days a year to become an agent of change to empower others to unlock their potential and embrace personal evolution.

She is right. Everyone has a superpower. To me, she is a super heroin ….she is Wonder Woman.

Anita Jacobsen

Drawing deeply from her heart and a place of resilience, Beatrice's generous and transparent sharing of her life is enthralling as an autobiography as well as serving as a bright light guiding those lost on the spiral staircases of life.

Some may see a flag for women liberation, while others may see a flag for independent resistance to mainstream ideology. But the careful reader will be quenched by the wisdom of a woman that has opened herself to transformation: digested within the "blood-sucking" cocoon of life, and emerging more radiant in her confidence and determination to fly higher than one could ever imagine.

It is a book which every woman and man will treasure. Its easy enough for men to put ourselves in her shoes (minus the high heels).

More than tugging at heart strings, the chapters are like pulleys, accelerating the reader upwards towards what can be the best of him or herself.

One of the deepest parts of the book is where she talks about toxic relationships. "The narcissist’s victim would start blaming themselves for ‘triggering’ the narcissist, who would keep layering the guilt by showing the victim the error of their ways - that they was not open enough, accepting enough, loving enough and embracing enough to all that was dear to the narcissist." This is the type of deep insights that act as lifeguards that help survivors swim against the crashing tides of guilt. This is the kind of revolution she talks about - of the mind.

I am honored and blessed to know Beatrice as a friend. As a senior in university, she looked out and protected us freshies from being bullied. It comes as no surprise that her book will be a best-seller for years to come - giving hope and the courage of lions to entrepreuners and to those searching for the greatness life has in store for them.

Dr Brendan J Gomez

I knew Beatrice from 2010 when I was in Kuala Lumpur as Acting High Commissioner appointed in June 2009 to set up the Zambian High Commission for the first time with a small team of officials who were bewildered yet highly impressed about Malaysia which shares a common history of British colonialism and is now an economic success story. Among the successes was the fact that The IBR Asia Group had, at the time, two publications which the diplomatic corps avidly read concerning Women, called Passions, and the other which gave an insight into Malaysian business-called International Business Review.

Dato Beatrice’s book ‘Through the Looking Glass’ is precisely what it promises to be; ‘heart songs, soul experiences and mind epiphanies’. The book is a riveting soul- searching account of the challenges and successes faced by many who have experienced the restrictions of culture in the setting of a modern society. From the prologue until the last page the book is filled with nuggets of truth, déjà vu realities which kept me captivated laughing and at time sharing the pain of navigating a rough life/work balance while societal criticisms and demands abound.

As a Zambian career diplomat and now law lecturer and consultant; I totally relate to her questioning mind, her pain, transformation and the necessity to awaken the super-hero within. In African society as in Asian culture, the role of a woman is still defined and judged by men and ‘senior relatives’ who may not share the same aspirations we have. The centrality of marriage in African culture and the ability to persevere even the roughest journeys of the said marriage can be devastating. All done to please everyone else besides the woman.

For every successful woman, apparently there’s a divorce! So the saying goes in Africa. So everything Dato Beatrice writes about resonates with our experience on the continent. But it’s in the metamorphosis, the climbing, the re-making of self and self-love where true happiness and success lies.

Congratulations on this delightful expression of endurance and love Dato Beatrice! A must read for anyone in any culture.

Amb. Michelle Mbilikwao Manda

The world pussyfoots around talking of pain, Beatrice however, so authentically and courageously, shares hers with transparency in this book.

What struck me most when I met Beatrice was her yearning to make this lifetime the most meaningful, for herself, and the best for others. Many of us ponder, "Do I live life from that childhood conditioning or risk living life by making my own informed choices, and I take responsibility for my choices?”

It takes a container truckload of courage to do the latter. It is a path less followed in our society, and I am so much in appreciation of Beatrice for choosing the latter.

It isn't easy, AND it is well worth it. Reading Beatrice's book, a quote by James Campbell that resonates with her life journey comes to mind, ”Suddenly you are ripped into being alive. And life is pain, and life is suffering, and life is horror, but by god you're alive and it's spectacular.

Sudha Kudva

From a small town in Malaysia with extremely traditional parents and outlooks to becoming one of Malaysia’s most prominent business women Beatrice subtly draws you into her journey. This book could so easily have been one of disappointment, disapproval and ultimately betrayal of trust but it’s not.

Beatrice gives a very honest and candid insight into how she overcame life’s tragedies with a positive mindset. Relentless in achieving goals she sets herself and openly embracing what many would deem failures to realign and grow. In an increasingly confused and volatile world the majority of people look to live in a comfort zone, this is a book about moving beyond this into the uncomfortable, defining purpose and achieving it. I am fortunate to know Beatrice personally and anyone spending time with her would acknowledge her extraordinary enthusiasm, energy and zest for life. No fluff, no BS and no punches pulled - this is an inspiring read.

Colin Whitehead

I have known Dato Beatrice since 2008 when I was the Managing Director of KPJ Healthcare Berhad. We worked together well and she has delivered outstanding masterpieces, working hard to deliver quality and differentiation for us with amazing results and outcomes. Her knowledge and commitment is beyond doubt.

This book highlights the classic journey of a woman entrepreneur building her self esteem and self worth while going against the tide of negative views society has on women. She writes openly and honestly on all the challenges and hurdles of life, pain, trauma, betrayal, a divorce, building a business back from scratch, picking up the pieces to rise to the top again after falling hard.

It’s a feel good story of a woman, against all odds, rising from the ashes to find happiness and a sense of purpose again.

Her daring move to share her true life is an opportunity for everyone to emulate and take inspiration from the best of what she has taught.

Tan Sri Siti Sa’adiah

"Through The Looking Glass is a collection of motivational thoughts, based upon the concrete experiences of the writer's own life, written and described in a fluent and communicative manner.

A good read, I must say. A story of courage and success dotted with flaws and doubts, which we all human beings have - this is a book that offers the bitter sweetness of life packed in 222 pages. Bravo!"

Jahanghir Khan

A woman of pure strength and determination, yet amazingly humble and down to earth, our conversations always evolved to life and living, crossing boundaries in building a better world. A consummate entrepreneur, Beatrice is unique in that she is always putting people - not business - first. Authentic, alluring and consciously aware, her stillness breathes power. It is timely that she shares her story with the world.

Dr JC Lim

The book feels like a hangout with your girlfriends. Its a light read, which is great because busy working women needs exactly that. Something light and witty but reassuring and comforting. Something you could pick up and read anytime, in commute or during lunch. Its like an older sister type of advice or heart to heart kinda book. Personally its right up my alley when it comes to books. Women who are trying to figure things out, would love it.

Siti Nur Farahin

Through the Looking Glass” is a mesmerizing book that artfully weaves a tale of resilience and self-discovery. Much like the classic tale of Alice’s adventures in Wonderland, this book takes readers on a captivating journey in the pursuit of one’s dreams.

This book is a profound reflection on the idea that, much like the fine wine that emerges from the crushing and stomping of grapes, life’s hardships are valuable lessons in disguise. It emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the face of adversity and holding onto one’s beliefs and dreams.

An essential read for anyone who finds themselves on a challenging life journey, it serves as a guiding light, reminding us to be authentic and resolute in the pursuit of our goals.

In a world where resilience is the key to unlocking greatness, “Through the Looking Glass” is an inspirational testament to the unwavering spirit needed to achieve one’s full potential, showing that the journey may be difficult, but with determination and authenticity, we can all achieve our dreams. I actually could hear her voice, see her smile and hear her laughter as I read. Her energy was felt.

Maladevi Dorasamy

There is a story behind every entrepreneur and Beatrice has proven that success is achievable with determination and innovation. She has overcome all odds to get to where she is now.

Stories inspire and I believe that they make one think, reflect and move forward. Beatrice must be commended for weaving her personal experiences together with emotion to motivate readers. She describes her journey right from the trenches to where she is now. The powerful quotes at the beginning of each chapter gets one enthusiastic to read further. Amazing, incredible and a tough journey.

As sociologist Mead said there are three components of the looking-glass self: we imagine how we appear to others, we imagine the judgment of that appearance, and we develop our self ( identity ) through the judgments of others. Mead described self as “taking the role of the other,” the premise for which the self is actualized. Beatrice has aptly titled the book and offers us positivity in a world that is increasingly becoming challenging and tough.

When I met Beatrice for the first time, I was struck by her contagious enthusiasm and a positive sense of the world. Indeed, this book conveys that enthusiasm and this is a book that must be read by everyone.

Well done Beatrice!

Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Palan

 “Through the Looking Glass” takes us on an inspiring voyage through the remarkable life of a ‘kampung’ girl who defied convention and societal norms to build a life of her own. This poignant narrative unveils the extraordinary journey of a woman who, in an era when women were expected to conform, broke free from the mould.

The story delves from her early years as a young woman to her struggles as a young wife and mother, setting up a new business venture, and further on through the pain and betrayal of divorce. Her story will resonate with many for it deals with navigating the oppressive weight of family and societal expectations, the will to be free and live one’s life as they see fit, and the various challenges that come with those decisions. Yet through it all, she looked within herself, forged ahead, and clung to the belief that happiness is a state of mind, and something which can be found in the simplest pleasures of life.

This is a story of how the author emerged from the cocoon of a provincial life to spread her wings and chase her dreams. This is a story of resilience, empowerment, and the triumph of the human spirit. It reinforces the age-old notion that hard work pays off, and that, in the end, being authentic to oneself is the key to finding true happiness. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a reminder that, no matter the odds, one can overcome challenges and emerge victorious in the journey of life.

Professor Dato’ Elizabeth Lee

Dato' Beatrice.... has a particular genius for melding the universally shared occurrence with her own. Her very specific experience of her life's journey is beautifully written and shared.

She's at the height of her power here... She's honest, vulnerable yet brave, and funny from the first pages, freely acknowledging contradictions that she still hasn't been able to tame.

She is our own Malaysian Jacquie Jordan, need I to say more?

Datin Emilia R Uzir

Beatrice and me share several things in common.

We both think from first principles and understand physics & economics are counterintuitive sciences. We have both lost everything & built things back with whatever tools we had.

In my eyes, this has made Beatrice a force of nature.

Read this tour de force she’s written. You will find strength in yourself to better life at its own game.

Ameet Singh

Beatrice practices cutting edge initiatives as per the works of the global brand building guru Simon Anholt. Her amazing network and philosophy of life makes the story authentic. When she addressed the Young Business professionals of Sri Lanka during the times of covid globally, the motivation she gave and how she looks at life and work was simply the best advise one can give the world, when things were falling apart. This book immortalises that advice superbly. A go-to when you need a pick-up.

Dr Rohantha Athukorala

We got to know Beatrice as a very committed, authentic, generous and extremely professional person. This is of course reflected in her professional success. She is not only a very successful business woman, but also a gifted speaker “on stage”. If you experience her privately, Managing a successful business and team, a family at home as well as personal and professional relationships is a challenge on its own. Managing this with perseverance, resilience and also with gratitude and empathy is another level.  We first met Beatrice back in 2008, when I was the Managing Director of Volkswagen in Malaysia. She is a lovely, empathetic and extremely communicative person with a beautiful, infectious smile. Encouraging and promoting friends seems to be in her genes. We have left Malaysia many years ago so this book is really a gift. We could now be able to read through all her experiences and learnings. Some of the chapters we know personally, others we don’t. As she has written in the epilogue of this book: “This book was meant to make a difference in your life.” Yes, it will. Thank you Beatrice for this!

Andreas & Barbara Prinz

The book written by Dato’ Beatrice Nirmala, (Through the Looking Glass) is a masterpiece of literature, art, and wisdom mixed with personal experience, precise analysis, and artistic photography mixed with passion and wisdom. The author has delved into the depths of a subject in very fascinating way, by sharing a unique perspective that combines personal anecdotes and insights, hoping to spark a sense of wonder. A captivating journey that will keep you engaged from start to the end. This masterpiece offers profound insights that challenge and expand the mind. The beauty of the book is the elegant writing of Dato’ Beatrice Nirmala that makes complex subject matters accessible and enjoyable to read. The author's skillful use of language is a delight for literary enthusiasts. This book is a true work of art. Its creative storytelling and powerful imagery make it a standout contribution. It is eye-opening and filled with valuable information and is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of life’s experiences and is like a delicious and healthy fruit juice ready to drink.

Dr Ahcene Lahsasna

I recently completed reading this remarkable book, which will captivate you. The author of this book is a longtime friend who is brilliant, vibrant, and a successful woman, mother, wife, daughter, and entrepreneur. Her vivid writing style, distinct outlook on life, and the obstacles she has overcome have left a lasting impression on me. Her unwavering determination and ambitious spirit, evident on every page, stood out the most. A fighter, she has overcome numerous obstacles to pursue her goal of becoming an author. I strongly recommend this book to anyone seeking encouragement, inspiration, and motivation to surmount obstacles. I am confident you will find it as inspiring and intriguing as I did.

Misbah Yasin

Through the Looking Glass" is the story of an extraordinary woman who, with courage and determination, transcends the boundaries society often imposes. She invites us to reflect on our own paths, to connect with our inner strength and resilience. This book is an uplifting testament to our spirit's capacity for growth, understanding, and change. Beatrice's storytelling is both heartfelt and thought-provoking, offering not just insight but some laughter, and sometimes tears. Her narrative is a reminder that we all have the potential to make a difference, not only in our own lives but in the lives of others as well. "Through the Looking Glass" reminded myself - the best is yet to come for us all. So, let's live our lives, on our chosen journey.

Nobuyuki Ota

Beatrice weaves a redeeming story. It's an honest tale - one of hardship and sadness - and finding one’s true self. In the dark, she chooses her own path, her inner strength carrying her forward, her courage lighting her path, her steps redefining herself.

In her defiance, she challenges us to see the world differently, to question social norms and taboos, to crack the facade constructed by hidden powers. Having broken her chains, she summons a revolution.

It's a beautiful tale, humble observations, pregnant with meaning. In telling her story - daughter, wife, mother and entrepreneur - she breathes life into ours. Start loving oneself and start living - it's never too late!

Premesh Chandran

The first time I met Dato Beatrice, she caught my attention by her intellectual conversation. She is a role model of what every woman dreams to be. Reading about the life of a determined lady who built a business from scratch and the constant challenges in life she had to overcome in order to be who she is today has been an inspiration for our small clinic business too, struggling through the pandemic with minimal financial help with just optimism, believing in ourselves and passion to keep going.

This is a book anyone can relate to, be it an entrepreneur, one struggling in a relationship or unleashing their inner capabilities.

Dr. Soha Mad

A glass-ceiling shattering entrepreneur boldly shares her honest and personal story. Not just practical, I found it engaging and sometimes uncomfortably close to the bone. An essential read for those who plan to follow their entrepreneurial dream.

David Bull

Knowing Beatrice is to know the courage of stepping into the light of self-acceptance and the true strength of a woman in any arena of life. The book is a keyhole into not just the tragedies but more so the strength to overcome what at first seems to be a barrier of hindrance towards one’s happiness and freedom in the most unexpected of times.

Dante

Beatrice’s writing in this wonderfully crafted book which is so starkly honest and brave, recounting the journey of a spirit that rises above adversities and challenges, yet continuing to believe in the future, will touch every person’s heart with hope and the importance of self -belief in living every day to expect more from life.

Sutapa Bhattacharya

As I delved into this book, I found myself becoming acquainted with a person whose resilience and determination offer profound leadership insights. It left an indelible mark, underscoring the remarkable strength of the human spirit. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to lead with unwavering resolve and courage, and it left a strong impression on me.

Lily Wong

Dato’ Beatrice Nirmala has written a comprehensive, yet easy to navigate read, using her own life journey. It is commendable to see how far she has travelled. Her self-belief, determination and willingness to stretch outside of her comfort zone is in tandem with her utter honesty about her struggles. In my professional connect with Nirmala , I experienced her drive & tenacity even when faced with extreme uncertainties . The biggest motivation comes from seeing examples of success despite adversity. Nirmala’s story can help people understand that a lot can be achieved if one truly believes that life’s challenges are worth fighting for.

Sanjeev Sood

Reading Datuk's Beatrice book is like talking to her. I see the sincerity in her writings which not many writers can do. In my opinion, Datuk Beatrice Nirmala is a visionary female leader in Malaysia who is full of energy, passionate about what she does, has strong positive vibes, is helpful, kind, and highly resourceful. I adore her very much.

Hajah Mahfuzah

From beauty queen to CEO of a successful media house, Beatrice Nirmala inspires the reader to tap into our inner genius and create the life of our dreams. Through the Looking Glass shines the light of truth on all that is false in our society, while urging the reader to fully take back our power and become sovereign beings. Her struggle with the loss of her father, her painful divorce and a controlling mother is relatable. These challenges fuel her breakthrough to a life as a strong mother and leader who has the confidence to overcome any of life’s challenges and rise higher. Her writing is both touching and highly motivational. This book illuminates the path for each one of us to overcome our tests and realize our highest potential. The world needs more women like Beatrice; intelligent, sensitive and working hard to make a difference for the beautiful people on this planet who all want the same thing, a good life for their families free of tyranny and oppression. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to improve their life and make a difference in the world!

Elizabeth Wright

I have known Beatrice for a long time, and I have always had respect for her ability to do great PR and strategies for companies, but today as I flip through her book and read it, I am thoroughly impressed with her amazing writing abilities.

Good writing is not just about stringing the right words in structured sentences or having a perfect command of the vocabulary. Good writing is the ability to connect with an audience and resonate with their thoughts and articulate what they have been thinking about but have able to articulate themselves.
But you know what great writing is? It’s going deep into topics that no one dares to talk about and having the courage to meet it squarely and give a voice to it. To get out of comfort zones and chart new territories by talking about deep personal traumas and tragedies without shame, guilt or fear.

As a veteran journalist, I have rarely seen any writers daring to go that extra mile, especially when it comes to baring the soul and writing fearlessly, without holding back the punches.

My dear friend Beatrice has done this and even more, she has topped it with liberal doses of wit, wisdom, kindness, compassion and intelligence in this masterpiece of hers, “Through The Looking Glass”

This book is a rare literary gem.

Every page leaps out and wraps itself around your heart, and you are drawn into her world as she paints the pain, wonderment and simple joys of every man and woman, intricately woven into her story.

The journey of her life from a wide eyed shy Ipoh girl from a lower middle income family who gave up teaching Physics and Maths to build an empire of influence, with no mentors, no help, just her guts.

The crumbling of personal and business life, shattered to a million pieces with a heartbreaking betrayal and divorce.

Building back from ground zero again at the age of 46, engulfed with fear of the future. And what we all need – a triumphant ending, as she finds her footing, reinvents her business, fortifies her confidence and then awakens to see the world with different eyes and a smile.

I remember her struggling to cope alone with her business and a multitude of matters after her divorce and not being able to sleep for days.

She once told me, “I wish I had a ‘how-to cope’ guide with me during the darkest times of my life. A book or something that will give me hope that I can do it, that this too shall pass, because it gets so depressingly hard and frighteningly dark that I worry I will never be able to come out of this state of anxiety and depression.”

Well, she has written that book she needed. So that many others who walk through the valley of fear, anxiety and doubt that clouds their vision, as we all do at many stages of our life, can take solace in this book. This book IS a wonderful guide, thinly disguised under a myriad of delightful stories about her journey, entrepreneurship, life hacks, tips on how to change the world, the challenges of being a woman in a man’s world, her relationship with her children, and my favourite part …. Happiness Is…, an entire segment that examines the simplicity of happiness and how we can all have it.

Everyone should have this book. It’s not just one of the best books I have read by a Malaysian author, I think this book has the potential to be an international best seller, for its universal feel good theme of triumph over darknesses in our lives.

In my humble opinion, the prize for the truly prolific writer in Malaysia – and a 1st class one at that – goes to Dato’ Beatrice Nirmala. She’s just awesome in every sense. I have to thank New Sarawak Tribune for discovering her. And Tribune Press or publishing her first edition.

Dato’ Azman Ujang

I met Beatrice 11 years ago as a client and that was when I formed my first impression of her. She was doing a pitch for a publishing project, and she was so spirited, passionate and captivating. Some people just have the ability to fill up a room with their presence and personality, and not to mention her stylish fashion sense that can be quite intimidating! That was what I thought of Beatrice.

Through the course of our work, I came to know her better. We had our ups and downs, and she always acted objectively and with professionalism, and came through for us. But I think for Beatrice it was more than just doing a good job, she really cared. There were many instances where I experienced her compassion, candor and courage and we soon formed an earnest friendship that lasted till today.

I have complete faith and trust that Beatrice will shine in whatever she puts her mind to… and that it will be a fun rocking journey!

Nik Anis

If there’s an award on Women of Inspiration, I would have nominated YBhg Dato Beatrice. Through IBR,

I have the pleasure of working with Dato Beatrice who has so much capacity, commitment,

and intelligence that brought her to this

extraordinary career success and amazing

entrepreneurship journey.

I used to ask her what has brought her this far.

“I keep pushing the limit to prove myself that I can do it. I believe we all can do anything…we just limit ourselves”. That has truly inspired me, and I believe to many others who have known her.

I enjoyed working with her at all time not only business to business but a friend in the business.

Rosniza Binti Abdul Wab

Beatrice Nirmala is a force of nature, a veritable human dynamo. Both an entrepreneur and motivational coach, I had the honour of meeting and getting to know her while serving as Canadian ambassador in Malaysia, 2010-12. She impressed not only me, but my entire embassy team and a long list of Canadian visitors as well. On one very memorable occasion she helped me launch a Canadian food and wine promotion event in Kuala Lumpur, with a visiting celebrity chef. Her magical touch added sparkle to a fabulously successful event. I look forward to working with her again whenever the opportunity arises.

Randolph Mank

Created with