KUALA LUMPUR: The Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) has appointed Datuk Ashari Kasnan as its new chief executive, effective Nov 1, 2026.
He succeeds Datuk Mohd Noorazam Osman, who has held the position since Jan 1, 2025.
In a statement, IRDA said the appointment was agreed upon at a meeting of its Members of Authority, co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, representing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
Ashari brings more than 30 years of experience in the Johor state civil service, covering land administration, district administration, entrepreneurship and economic development.
Prior to his appointment, he served as chief executive officer of the Johor State Biotechnology and Biodiversity Corporation (J'Biotech) and J-Biotech Holdings Sdn Bhd.
He previously held several senior positions, including Johor deputy state secretary (development), director of the Johor Land and Mines Office and Mersing district officer.
Ashari also served as IRDA's state commissioner from January 2016 to December 2017, gaining experience in investment facilitation, regional development and project implementation.
IRDA said Ashari would lead efforts to facilitate strategic investments, strengthen Iskandar Malaysia's economic competitiveness and promote balanced and sustainable growth.
IRDA, a federal statutory body under the Economy Ministry, is responsible for planning and facilitating the development of Iskandar Malaysia, including coordinating strategic initiatives such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone.
