Cover Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan’s passing represents the end of an era for Malaysian business leadership, marking the conclusion of a remarkable journey of entrepreneurship and national contribution (Photo: Getty Images)
Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan’s passing represents the end of an era for Malaysian business leadership, marking the conclusion of a remarkable journey of entrepreneurship and national contribution (Photo: Getty Images)
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A towering figure in Malaysian business and philanthropy, Ananda Krishnan breathed his last today, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable entrepreneurial achievement and significant contributions to national development
Born in Kuala Lumpur in 1938, Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan rose from modest beginnings to become one of Malaysia’s most successful and influential business magnates. His extraordinary career was characterised by strategic vision, innovative thinking, and an ability to identify and capitalise on emerging opportunities across multiple industries
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He first gained prominence in the telecommunications sector, founding Maxis Communications in the early 1990s. Under his leadership, Maxis transformed from a nascent mobile operator to one of Southeast Asia’s most significant telecommunications companies. His strategic acumen was instrumental in driving Malaysia’s digital transformation, bringing mobile communication to millions of people across the country and beyond.
Beyond telecommunications, Ananda demonstrated remarkable versatility as a businessman. He made significant investments in diverse sectors including entertainment, energy, and real estate. His portfolio included notable enterprises such as Astro Malaysia Holdings, a leading media and entertainment company, and investments in power generation and port operations.
Above Stan Kroenke (L), owner of Kroenke Sports Enterprises, which includes the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, Colorado Avalanche of the NHL, Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer, Colorado Mammoth of the National Lacrosse League and St. Louis Rams of the NFL, chats with Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan at the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference on July 8, 2015 in Sun Valley, Idaho (Photo: Getty Images)
Stan Kroenke (L), owner of Kroenke Sports Enterprises, which includes the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, Colorado Avalanche of the NHL, Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer, Colorado Mammoth of the National Lacrosse League and St. Louis Rams of the NFL, chats with Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan at the Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference on July 8, 2015 in Sun Valley, Idaho (Photo: Getty Images)
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A deeply private individual, Ananda was known more for his business achievements than public persona. Philanthropy was another cornerstone of his life as he was known for supporting educational and healthcare initiatives, often working quietly behind the scenes to make meaningful contributions to Malaysian society. His approach to giving was characterised by strategic support that aimed to create long-term societal impact.
The business world and Malaysia have lost a true visionary–a man who not only created significant economic value but also played a crucial role in the country’s modernisation and global economic integration.
See also: 7 Malaysian philanthropist that are changing the world
Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan will be remembered as a pioneering businessman, a strategic thinker, and a quiet philanthropist who left an indelible mark on Malaysian society and the global business landscape.
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Lainey was the Digital Director of Tatler Malaysia. When not whiling away the hours watching documentaries, the latest K-drama, or reruns of Friends, she can be found indulging her wanderlust by stalking travel platforms or feeding her obsession with music. She loves animals, running, all things social media, a good conversation over coffee or soju or wine (often rambling on if nobody pulls the brakes on her), and is an avid fan of bursting-at-the-seams laughter.
