MDEC appoints Richard Loh as CITO

Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has appointed Richard Loh Tian Hu as its chief innovation and technology officer.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has appointed Richard Loh Tian Hu as its chief innovation and technology officer.

MDEC said in a statement on Friday Loh will be responsible to lead and develop MDEC’s Digital information technology strategy, plan and transformation.

It added he will also be tasked to review, reorganise and integrate MDEC’s technology functions and infrastructures as to maximise MDEC’s capabilities.

This is to ensure that they are aligned to provide high quality digital innovations and technology services that are dynamic and responsive to both internal and external customers, MDEC said.

Loh will report to the CEO and will also be appointed as one of MDEC’s operating council members.

MDEC said he began his career in 1997 at Siemens Malaysia, eventually rising to become the chief information officer (CIO) at Nokia Siemens Networks in 2006.

He also served as the CIO of AIG Insurance Malaysia as well as country head of IT services at Zurich Insurance Malaysia.

Prior to his appointment at MDEC, he was serving at AXA Partners (Asia Region) as its CIO.

MDEC chairman Datuk Wira Dr Hj. Rais Hussin Mohamed Ariff said: “Loh possesses the experience and deep knowhow to move MDEC’s digital transformation initiatives further for the benefit of the many, propagating a society integrated with technology, anchored by inclusivity and equitability in line with Malaysia 5.0.

“His credentials and track record speak for themselves and I am enthralled to welcome him to Team MDEC.”

MDEC CEO Surina Shukri said Loh will strengthen MDEC’s IT, data and security strategy as it looks to boost its capabilities and capacities in catalysing the digital economy as a whole.

“I am confident Richard will further add value and ensure we maximise our strengths and offerings to our customers, in our bid to establish Malaysia as the Heart of Digital ASEAN and achieve the goals of the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint (MyDIGITAL),” Surina said.

Meanwhile, Loh said he is excited to be serving at MDEC and essentially be part of a very important machinery “ as we push forth to establish the nation as a key player in the digital ecosystem both regionally and globally”.