KUALA LUMPUR: Business tycoon Ananda Krishnan had been a prominent figure in helming a conglomerate that has significantly influenced the development and evolution of Malaysian media, telecommunications as well as the entertainment industries.
Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd group chief executive officer Euan Smith said the entertainment company mourns the loss of its shareholder whose unparalleled contributions had helped shape the industry.
He said that through Astro, Ananda had touched lives by providing jobs, nurturing talent and fostering a shared sense of joy through the power of entertainment.
"Ananda Krishnan’s vision went beyond creating a company -- he created a purpose. His enduring commitment to excellence and humanity will continue to inspire us as we carry on his legacy.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family during this time of loss," he said in a statement on Thursday (Nov 28).
Meanwhile Measat Global Bhd said in a statement that Ananda's pioneering vision has been pivotal in establishing the Malaysian satellite industry and advancing Measat's mission to connect communities and drive progress.
"His legacy in innovation and philanthropy will continue to inspire us. Measat expresses our deepest condolences on the passing of our esteemed founder," it said.
Telecommunications giant Maxis Bhd
said in a separate statement that Ananda's wise guidance over the years helped steer Maxis to become the strong business it is today.
"His contributions to the development of Malaysia and the business world were significant. We are deeply grateful. We extend our deepest condolences to Ananda's family,” said the company.
Ananda Krishnan, who died today aged 86, founded his flagship investment company, Usaha Tegas Sdn Bhd in 1984, which later became an integral part of his legacy.
He founded and built companies in telecommunications, satellite television, oilfield services and property development - industries that have become integral to Malaysia’s corporate landscape.
His companies, from operating TGV Cinemas to Maxis Bhd, Astro Holdings, Bumi Armada, Measat Satellite Systems and Tanjong Plc, along with the products they offered, have become household names in Malaysia. - Bernama
