Ex-MDEC CEO Yasmin Mahmood appointed Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Chair

PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Yasmin Mahmood has been named Chair of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s board of directors.

The former Microsoft Malaysia managing director and former Malaysia Digital Economy Corp (MDEC) chief executive officer was instrumental in the region’s digital economic transformation, and she has also worked with technology giants including Hewlett Packard and Dell in a career spanning three decades.

“I am honoured to be part of Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, to support the on-going development of the university and the execution of its ‘Global Strategy 2025’.

“I hope that in sharing my industry expertise and insights, I will help strengthen the connection between public and private partnerships, inspire digital solutions that will benefit the university both now and in the future and promote the world-class teaching experience for our leaders of the future, ” she said in a press release on Feb 5.

A leading figure in digital technology and enterprise, she currently serves as Pos Malaysia chairperson and Skymind advisor.

Welcoming Yasmin to the university, Heriot-Watt University principal and vice-chancellor Richard A. Williams said her experience in the digital industry, working for some of the world’s largest companies, will provide an invaluable contribution towards the varsity’s vision of delivering worldwide impact through pioneering research while ensuring a unique learning experience for students.

“This year marks a milestone for Heriot-Watt, being 200 years since our founding roots in Scotland were established.

“Since then, two centuries of innovation have followed leading to what is today a unique international institution with campuses in Malaysia, the United Kingdom and Dubai.

“As we celebrate our past throughout this bicentennial year, we continue to be a pioneer in education, with a focus very much on the future, ” he said.

Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Provost and CEO Mushtak Al-Atabi said the varsity prides itself in using “positive education” to develop purpose-driven, resilient and future ready graduates.

“Yasmin’s appointment will help drive our vision for excellence and will greatly support our aspirations over the coming years.

“Her passion for people and technology will help us continue to promote greater inclusion in a complex digital world.”

Yasmin is widely known as the country’s digital economy ambassador and is a seasoned speaker at internationally renowned platforms such as the World Economic Forum, International Telecommunication Union and the World Islamic Economic Forum.