Adj. Prof. IDr. Joe Chan is the Founder and Principal of Designtone, an award-winning Malaysian interior design consultancy recognised for its human-centric and culturally responsive approach to design. With more than 27 years of professional experience, Joe has established himself as a respected thought leader in the regional design industry, known for bridging creativity, pragmatism, and innovation across hospitality, workplace, commercial, and mixed-use developments.
Beyond practice, he actively contributes to the advancement of the profession through education, advocacy, and international collaboration. He currently serves as Deputy President of the Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers (MIID) and Deputy President of the Asia-Pacific Space Designers Association (APSDA). Joe is also an Adjunct Professor at Sunway University and Taylor’s University, where he actively bridges academia and professional practice to nurture the next generation of designers. As a speaker, juror, and mentor, he continues to champion adaptive design thinking that responds meaningfully to culture, context, and the evolving human experience within the built environment