Johan Speaking Academy has turned consistent effort and clear branding into regional recognition, entering the ASEAN Book of Records with 6,869 outdoor public speaking sessions led by children between the ages of 5 to 17 since 2015.
Main image: Johan Ooi, The Founder of Johan Speaking Academy & Co-Founder Cherry Ho in dark Top at the middle with the rest of the educators
Johan Ooi & Cherry Ho with Asean Records Representatives
Founded in 2014, the academy built its brand on one mission: helping children become confident speakers by giving them real platforms to practise. Whether at shopping malls, government events, or zoos, their students have stood on stage in front of live audiences for a decade.
Datuk Rosly @ Rahmat Ahmat Lana (Middle), President of Zoo Negara with Johan Ooi (2nd left)& Cherry Ho (2nd right)
Johan Ooi, Founder & Cherry Ho, Co-Founder of Johan Speaking Academy
The recent record celebration at Zoo Negara, witnessed by Datuk Rosly @ Rahmat Ahmat Lana, Deputy President of Zoo Negara, marked not just a milestone, but a case study in strategic growth.
With 11 locations and growing, Johan Speaking Academy proves that a clear purpose, backed by visibility, can drive both impact and business expansion.
The academy’s 11 locations across Malaysia are:
- Klang Valley: TTDI, Cheras, Bandar Puteri Puchong, Kota Damansara, Setia Alam, Kajang, Bukit Jalil, and Rawang
- Ipoh Garden South (Perak)
- Taman Molek and Eco Botanic (Johor)
In 2023, Johan Speaking Academy expanded its impact through franchising, offering a ready-to-run business model for individuals passionate about empowering children. This includes full training, marketing support, and structured modules under the Speaker Warrior brand, making it a perfect opportunity for stay-at-home moms, teachers, and aspiring entrepreneurs.
The academy currently runs three public speaking programs: Kiddos (preschool), Kids (primary school), and Teens, with the youngest speaker being just 4 years old.
Students Voices:
Gisele, 7: “I love speaking at the zoo and on big stages. It makes me feel brave!”
Maryam, 6: “I like how the coaches always encourage me. I am very confident now!”
Vimridh, 10: “This is my 2nd year with Johan. I enjoy performing in public!”
What’s Next?
Johan Speaking Academy is preparing to expand its footprint regionally through:
- Franchising and master franchise partnerships across ASEAN.
- Collaborations with schools and kindergartens.
- Certification programs for educators through its Train-The-Educator (Kids Public Speaking)
Key Milestones
- 6 July 2025 – ASEAN Record Celebration at Zoo Negara, featuring new student brand ambassadors
- 14 Sept 2024 – Students presented on stage at the MAHA 100th anniversary, in front of the Prime Minister and ASEAN delegates.
- Jan 2024 – A Johan student explained the MADANI concept to 3,000 attendees during a national event in Kuala Selangor, graced by the Prime Minister.
- Dec 2019 – Student co-emceeing for APEC Launch in Cyberjaya, attended by the Prime Minister and ASEAN leaders.
This ASEAN recognition is just the beginning. Johan Speaking Academy remains committed to building a confident generation of young leaders, one stage at a time.
