A TEENAGE vision imagined by the late Tan Sri T. Ananda Krishnan in the early 1950s materialised into reality with the PETRONAS Twin Towers standing today as its most enduring symbol, according to Inspiring Billionaire, the first comprehensive biography of the business tycoon.
Author and adjunct professor M. Krishnamoorthy, in a statement to Bernama, said Ananda, then 14 years old, shared his vision during a family gathering.
“With youthful conviction, he painted a picture of the future, a vision that seemed almost impossible. He declared Kuala Lumpur would become a great city, filled with towering buildings that touched the sky!” he said.
The iconic PETRONAS Twin Towers stand as a testament to Ananda, the boy whose “impossible” dream reshaped Malaysia’s skyline.
The 300-page book was launched by Lotus Group founder and group chief executive officer Tan Sri R. Doraisingam Pillai in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, with more than 100 guests present and almost 200 copies sold.
Krishnamoorthy said Ananda established several foundations to provide scholarships and aid the poor and needy.
“Ananda’s true greatness lies in giving, sharing joy and creating opportunities for others.
“This book is more than an inspiring call to embrace the spirit of philanthropy and make our mark on the world,” he added.
Doraisingam said the book detailed Ananda’s life beyond business, focusing on his philanthropic contributions and societal impact.
“The book unveils the extraordinary life of Ananda, a man whose legacy transcended wealth to touch the hearts of millions.
“It captures the essence of a visionary philanthropist and business mogul, whose unwavering commitment to uplifting others transformed lives and communities.
“Ananda’s story is a testament to the power of generosity and compassion,” Doraisingam said.
He added that Ananda’s ventures in oil, telecommunications, satellites, media, entertainment and education had helped reshape Malaysia’s landscape and paved the way for future generations to thrive.
Former Bernama chairman and editor-in-chief Datuk Azman Ujang, who contributed three articles to the book, said it offered insights into Ananda’s life and thinking, whose journey was described as “one of towering ambition, grounded in humanity and humility”.
“This unique book on Ananda Krishnan reveals uncharted facets of his inspirational life.
“He was a visionary who inspires your imagination,” Azman said in his recollections of Ananda, whom he interviewed during the planning and construction of the PETRONAS Twin Towers.
The book also highlights Ananda’s business philosophy, which guided his rise to billionaire status through strategic long-term investments.
“We don’t do the things that everybody else is doing,” Ananda was quoted as saying in past interviews.
To make money, he added: “You have to find tomorrow’s business and make tomorrow’s money.
“Today’s businesses have small margins. Tomorrow’s businesses require patience, but the margins are big.”
Ananda passed away on Nov 28, 2024, in Switzerland.
Inspiring Billionaire will be available in bookstores and online soon.
For more details, email krishnamuthaly@gmail.com or call 012-652 4327.
