In good company: (From left) Tun S. Samy Vellu, Tan Sri Jeffrey Cheah, Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam, Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Ananda and Tan Sri Joseph Kurup at Sunway Hotel in 2015. 80th birthday celebration of Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam at Sunway Hotel.
PETALING JAYA: Condolence messages poured in as the nation mourns the passing of billionaire businessman Ananda Krishnan Tatparanandam.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Ananda’s contributions in various fields will be remembered.
“Condolences to the family members. I hope that they will persevere in facing the loss.
“The contributions of Ananda in the corporate, philanthropy and civil society will surely be remembered,” he said in a statement.
The US Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan also expressed his condolences.
“I am saddened by the passing of the Harvard Business School alumnus, bold entrepreneur, and philanthropist whose contributions significantly shaped Malaysia’s corporate landscape and touched countless lives.
“Heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” he said in a tweet.
Astro group chief executive officer Euan Smith said Ananda’s vision went beyond creating a company, as he had also created a purpose.
“Through Astro, he touched lives by providing jobs, nurturing talent and fostering a shared sense of joy through the power of entertainment.
“His enduring commitment to excellence and humanity will continue to inspire us as we carry his legacy forward.
“We join the nation in honouring a remarkable individual whose contributions will forever be etched in Malaysia’s history,” said Smith in a statement.
Maxis, in a statement, said Ananda had improved the lives of many Malaysians.
“His contributions to the development of Malaysia and the business world were significant.
“His wise guidance over the years helped steer Maxis to become the strong business it is today. We are deeply grateful,” the telco company added.
Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (Mitra) chairman P. Prabakaran said Ananda’s death marked a significant loss for the entire Malaysian community, especially for Malaysian Indians who admired his contributions and achievements.
“Ananda was a titan in the fields of telecommunications, oil and gas. His visionary leadership and entrepreneurial spirit have left an indelible mark on our nation.
“His philanthropic efforts have transformed and uplifted countless lives,” he said on an Instagram post.
Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Nivas Ragavan said Ananda was a true visionary who redefined the country’s business landscape and pioneered innovations.
“Beyond his business brilliance, Ananda embodied humility and generosity.
“His philanthropic efforts quietly empowered communities, supported education and fostered cultural development, showcasing his deep commitment to social impact.
“His contributions transcended industries, influencing the very fabric of Malaysian society and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs and leaders,” he said.
