Kok Chit Hock (third from left) passes out a bundle of bottle water during a public welfare activity in Yiwu, East China's Zhejiang province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The story of Kok Chit Hock, a Malaysian merchant in Yiwu, Zhejiang province, was aired on China's Central Television (CCTV) on July 21.

Kok Chit Hock is an exemplary figure among foreign merchants in Yiwu, known for his success in running a jewelry business, creating over 7,000 job opportunities, and, most importantly, devoting himself to public welfare.

In 1999, Kok was attracted to Yiwu when he heard the city's small commodities boast high quality and low purchasing costs. In 2004, he rented an 80-square-meter shop in Yiwu International Trade City to start his crystal business. 

"This is the best place for startup companies," said the Malaysian. "Purchasers from across the city will knock on your door even if you just wait in your shop."

Kok Chit Hock explains why he came to Yiwu in the first place. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Kok's company has become a leader in Yiwu's crystal industry, after 15 years of development, due to his vision, business savvy, efforts, as well as Yiwu's constantly improving business environment and global influence.

"Yiwu incubated my business and myself," Kok said, "That's why I am committed to do whatever I can to return the favor."

And so he did. Since starting in June 2015, Kok Chit Hock's public welfare club, which consists of over 100 foreign merchants, has organized over 120 volunteer activities concerning poverty alleviation, elderly care, student loans, blood donation, and cultural exchanges.

Yiwu, the world's largest wholesale market for small consumer goods, is home to more than 14,000 foreign merchants from over 200 countries and regions.

Kok Chit Hock praises Yiwu's business and living environment. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]