In a groundbreaking celebration of leadership and innovation, we proudly present the extraordinary recipients of this year’s MIA Impact Circle Stellar CxO Award. These trailblazing executives have redefined excellence, demonstrating unparalleled vision, resilience, and transformative impact across industries.
As we commemorate the spirit of freedom and unity on Malaysia’s Independence Day, we are delighted to introduce the prestigious recognition. This distinguished accolade pays tribute to outstanding individuals who exemplify the essence of Malaysia’s journey towards progress, innovation, and harmony.
With an unwavering commitment to leveraging their online platforms, these individuals have transcended boundaries, bridging gaps, and enlightening minds. Through their persistent dedication to fostering learning and empowerment, they have become true beacons of enlightenment in the digital age.
Join us in applauding these exceptional leaders who have shattered conventions, elevated their industries, and left an indelible mark on the world. Their journey is an inspiration to us all, and their recognition is a testament to the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream, innovate, and lead with purpose.
Aaron Sarma is an entrepreneur, investor and speaker with experience in technology, digital media, and retail. In 2015, he founded Touristly (later called Vidi), which was acquired by AirAsia in 2017. He served in numerous positions for the group to establish travel3sixty, BigLife, and AirAsia.com. He later joined the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation in 2019 as a consultant to work on several national strategy papers.
He is the current Co-Founder and General Partner of ScaleUp Malaysia, an accelerator that assists entrepreneurs in creating and scaling their businesses to the next level. ScaleUp Malaysia has announced 31 investments and is regarded as one of South East Asia’s most active investors. In 2020, he co-founded Remote Ventures, a venture builder that helps startups grow from zero to one by providing technology assistance and initial capital. Remote Ventures has assisted entrepreneurs in the entertainment, education, fitness, and logistics areas in launching their businesses.
Beyond his professional roles, Aaron serves on the board of Perbadanan Stadium Malaysia and is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (ICDM). His contributions to the startup ecosystem have been recognized with several awards, including Best Life Helper at the ASEAN Rice Bowl Startup Awards and Founder of the Year at the Malaysian Rice Bowl Startup Awards.
Aaron is enthusiastic about technology and its impact on society. He frequently speaks at conferences and other gatherings. He writes commentary on Malaysia’s digital development on occasion. In his journey, Aaron continues to push forward, relentlessly advancing and gathering new experiences with each passing day. His work is a testament to his belief in the transformative power of entrepreneurship and his commitment to driving digital transformation and clean energy initiatives.
En Abu Bakar Yusof is a seasoned professional with a remarkable career spanning close to three decades in the realm of international trade and export promotion. His extensive expertise and unwavering commitment have positioned him as a driving force behind Malaysia’s global trade initiatives. Currently holding the distinguished position of Deputy CEO (Exporters Development) and Chief Digital Officer at MATRADE, he continues to shape and elevate Malaysia’s presence on the international trade stage.
With a career that exemplifies dedication and innovation, En Abu Bakar has traversed a diverse range of roles, each contributing to his comprehensive understanding of trade dynamics. His journey has seen him serve in various capacities, including strategic planning, cross-border operations, management services, and export promotion. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated a keen strategic insight, fostering collaborations and driving initiatives that bolster Malaysia’s exports and international trade relations.
In this capacity as deputy CEO of MATRADE, he stands as a champion of Malaysia’s export community, working to empower businesses to reach new global heights. His emphasis on digital innovation underscores his recognition of the evolving landscape of international trade, ensuring that Malaysia remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
Alan Cheah is a dynamic professional known for his transformative leadership and profound contributions to the automotive industry. With a proven track record of driving innovation and growth, he currently serves as the Country General Manager for Partnerships, Marketing & CX for Carsome Group, a prominent player in the automotive marketplace.
He has expanded the retail network in Malaysia, creating a seamless end-to-end user experience for purchasing cars, and launched the CARSOME PJ Automall, the largest experience centre in Malaysia, with EV charging infrastructure. Also a member of Impact Circle’s Advisory Board & Mentors, an organisation tasked to enable Agri-FoodTech players to rejuvenate the agri-food sector in Malaysia.
Previously the CEO of a car-sharing company that was awarded the 2020 Frost & Sullivan Malaysia Car-Sharing Company of the Year. Paved the way for the company to be part of the alternative transportation ecosystem as a first-mile/last-mile solution.
A few words from him, “I am thankful for this recognition. This is a true testament that we are growing ourselves when we help others to grow. Without the right people in this journey of mine, I would not have the opportunity to learn more about myself and continue to improve my strengths. Much gratitude to everyone who contributed to my growth!”
Datin Habsah has expertly navigated diverse roles, encompassing strategic planning, business development, and project management with an extensive career spanning over 25 years in the oil and gas industry. Her leadership has been instrumental in steering key transformation projects and orchestrating impactful initiatives; focusing on data and knowledge management underscores my commitment to innovation.
Her unwavering dedication to delivering high-impact business outcomes has consistently driven success. Beyond professional endeavors, I am ardent about nurturing talent, fostering growth, and cultivating a network of like-minded individuals with shared passions. Her engagement extends to contributing to the community, where she actively participates and gives back. In a dynamic sector, she remains poised to leverage her wealth of experience to propel the oil and gas industry forward while making meaningful contributions to the broader community.
A few words from her, “ I am definitely surprised and happy to receive CxO recognition from Marketing Asia. My presence is more visible online in recent years to share on few undertakings related to Data and Knowledge Management which have been a continuous challenge in many organisations. The journey with this sharing has enabled me to create a wider circle of networks and my hope is to impart the knowledge for the greater good for the nation. Thank you for this award“
Dato Haji Abdul Rani Haji Osman is a distinguished professional known for his exceptional contributions to the fields of education, business development, and national development initiatives. With a wealth of experience and a visionary mindset, he has played pivotal roles in shaping the educational landscape in Malaysia.
Currently serving as the Director of Business Development, Partnership, and Government Liaison at MAHSA University, Dato Haji Abdul Rani is at the forefront of driving innovation and growth in the education sector. Under his guidance, MAHSA University has flourished as a hub of academic excellence and practical relevance. Dato Haji Abdul Rani’s leadership is characterized by a holistic approach that blends academic pursuits with industry engagement and societal impact. His endeavors exemplify a true visionary who not only envisions a better future but actively works towards making it a reality.
A few words from him, “Firstly, thank you so much to MIA Impact Circle Stellar CxO 2023 for honouring me with this award. I truly appreciate Impact Circle Community for this admirable recognition I could never imagine my passion for marketing, being able to impact the community. I truly believe to be successful in marketing, the key is, to be honest in what we do and always give our utmost effort in winning people’s hearts with compassion and good intent to bring value to the community. I hope to bring more value and aspiration to the community so that we can grow together and be a bigger person”
Dave Prem is a distinguished communications specialist centered on strategic and commercial communications. His journey through the professional landscape spans diverse sectors, including GLCs, MNCs, and a strong current focus on SMEs and startups. With a robust understanding of the significance of innovation in communication, Dave is a fervent advocate for harnessing cutting-edge approaches to convey impactful messages.
At present, Dave holds the esteemed position of General Manager at Elliot & Co. Malaysia, where his role is pivotal in driving the success of the company. Managing a team of nearly 30 passionate professionals, he spearheads communications tailored for the SME and startup sphere. His leadership has played a decisive role in propelling the company’s remarkable growth, evidenced by a 50% expansion in manpower and a rapidly diversifying client portfolio. With his unwavering commitment, the company is on track to achieve substantial revenue growth, with projections nearing a twofold increase year on year.
Dave Prem’s journey exemplifies his dedication to pushing the boundaries of communication innovation. His dynamic leadership, strategic prowess, and visionary mindset continue to pave the way for impactful communication strategies that fuel business growth and empower SMEs and startups to achieve their goals.
A few words from him, “I am incredibly honored to be receiving this recognition. In today’s world, perhaps the most important community is the one that lives online – it is the most responsive and reactive. I am proud to be taking steps in this direction, to uplift the communities in am a part of.”
Dian Azmi is an accomplished Marketing Solutionist and Digital Strategist renowned for her visionary approach and strategic mindset. With an impressive career spanning over 25 years, she has navigated the dynamic landscapes of IT and Agri-Food industries, enriching her expertise in driving sales, shaping marketing strategies, and enhancing consumer experiences. Dian’s journey reflects a deep understanding of market dynamics and a knack for innovation. Her meticulous analysis of market trends and a keen eye for opportunities have been instrumental in propelling FGV Integrated Farming’s products and services to the forefront.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dian’s vibrant zest for life shines through her diverse interests. Her adventurous spirit finds expression in pursuits like diving and hiking, embodying her commitment to cultivating a holistic and fulfilling lifestyle. Her dynamic leadership and innovative mindset continue to shape industries and leave a lasting impact.
Few words from her, “I’m honored and grateful to be recognised for leveraging social media’s reach in my role as the Head of Commercial at FGV Integrated Farming. Together, we’ve cultivated a virtual space that promotes sustainability, community empowerment, and positive change. I’m grateful for my team’s dedication and our digital community’s engagement. Let’s persist in using social media to foster a brighter future for all.”
Dr. Nurrul Iiyana is a multifaceted professional with a passion for learning, transformation, and entrepreneurship. Her journey is marked by a profound commitment to personal growth, organizational development, and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit. Currently serving as the Head of Organisational Learning and people Transformation at CGC Malaysia.
Dr. Nurrul Iiyana’s expertise lies in the realm of organizational learning and people transformation. Her visionary leadership has been instrumental in creating environments that encourage continuous learning, innovation, and professional development. Through her strategic insights and dynamic approach, she has propelled CGC Malaysia’s workforce towards greater excellence and adaptability.
Beyond her corporate role, Dr. Nurrul Iiyana is a trailblazer in the entrepreneurial space. As the founder of warungusahawan.com, she has created that platform dedicated to entrepreneurs, sharing her insights, experiences, and wisdom to empower aspiring business owners. Her writing serves as a source of inspiration and guidance, resonating with entrepreneurs navigating the complex world of startups and business ventures.
Dr Wendy Liew is a multiple award-winning entrepreneur and a familiar face in the industry of Image and Brand Management. To date, she has trained and consulted hundreds of companies including MNCs, GLCs, and Fortune 500 companies, and over 70, 000 corporate people including the C-Suite level in the areas of Professional Image Branding, Protocol, Business Etiquette & Brand Management. Wendy is the Past President of AICI Malaysia, the Adjunct Professor of the School of Media, Art and Design for Unitar International University, and a Professor (Post-Doctoral Senior Research Fellowship) of Oxbridge Institute of Professional Development. Wendy has garnered considerable with various media and press appearances and besides Malaysia, she has shared her expertise in different countries of Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
A few words from her, “I’m honored to have been chosen for this award and humbled to be acknowledged among other accomplished individuals. Beyond the award, what truly counts is our commitment and contribution to making a positive impact on our fast-paced society in a little way. Moving forward, I’m excited to channel my energy into initiatives that promote leadership, well-being, DEI, and meaningful change. Together, let’s drive progress and shape a brighter collective future”
Adj. Prof. Farid Basir is a distinguished leader who holds prominent roles across a spectrum of esteemed institutions. He leads strategic human capital programs as MBSB Bank’s Chief People Officer and Vice President of the Malaysian Employers Federation. He additionally serves as an Adjunct Professor at UNITAR International University. His influence extends to the Malaysian Productivity Corporation, the National Labour Advisory Council, and the TalentCorp Industry Advisory Council.
Farid’s experience has flourished across worldwide geographies, including Switzerland, South Africa, and the Philippines, throughout the course of two decades. He has then left an inedible mark in Malaysia since his return in 2014. Farid has augmented his acumen through esteemed institutions like IMD, Cambridge Judge Business School, Oxford Said Business School, INSEAD, and Bologna Business School. His commitment to excellence is shown in his four sought global certifications: HRCI-HR Management Professional, HRCI-Global HR Professional, SHRM-Senior Certified Professional, and Global Remuneration Professional. Furthermore, he serves on the Advisory Board for CIPD Malaysia.
Farid’s worldwide recognition includes receiving the “Upcoming Personality in Islamic Finance 2017” award at the Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA) 2017 in Kazakhstan. His expertise was further recognised when he was named “CHRO of the Year” at the World HRD Congress in 2018. The Asia HRD Awards 2022, an accolade honoring his remarkable contributions to the field of Human Resource Development, marks the pinnacle of his achievements.
A few words from him, “I am truly honored and grateful to receive the MIA Impact Circle Stellar CxO 2023 award. Being recognized for my contributions to the community through my media platform is both humbling and motivating. I believe in the transformative power of media and communication, and I am committed to positively influencing conversations and perspectives. This award reinforces the importance of our collective efforts in shaping a more connected and informed community. Thank you for this recognition, and I look forward to continuing this impactful journey together. Thanks again for the nomination and look forward to chat over coffee. Regards”
Juanita Johari is currently serving as the Head of Corporate Communications, APAC at B. Braun Group, she is at the forefront of shaping and delivering impactful narratives. Juanita Johari is a distinguished professional known for her strategic and dynamic leadership in the realm of corporate communications. With an unwavering commitment to effective messaging, stakeholder engagement, and cross-industry learning, she has carved a niche for herself as a leader who understands the intricate nuances of communication within diverse business environments.
Her philosophy is rooted in the understanding that communication is not only about delivering messages or statements but also about aligning with the unique priorities of each industry. She believes in the strategic importance of choosing battles wisely and discerning when to speak, ensuring that key stakeholders’ requirements are seamlessly integrated into the decision-making process.
Her ability to navigate complex landscapes, coupled with her emphasis on stakeholder-centric communication, has solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in the field. Through her tenure at B. Braun Group, she continues to shape narratives that drive meaningful connections, foster collaboration, and ultimately contribute to the success of the organization and its stakeholders.
A few words from her, “I am delighted to receive this award, and to be acknowledged alongside fellow like-minded individuals who’ve inspired others through the exchange of our ideas and expertise. Knowing that the topics I brought up have positively impacted others, propelling their success in their professional and leadership pursuits, only fuels my motivation further”
Julian Sherman Fernandez holds the positions of Chief Operating Officer and Director of Communications at FOY Communications Sdn. Bhd. Boasting a career spanning over 18 years, he has exhibited expertise in business solutions, as well as high-risk public sector and FMCG projects across the ASEAN, Oceania, and Middle Eastern regions. Julian’s contributions have been pivotal, particularly in his role as a key figure in stakeholder management for Malaysia’s Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) and MyKad Project.
His proficiency extends across multiple domains, encompassing public relations, stakeholder management, media relations, crisis management, strategic planning, and project management. As one of the co-founders of FOY Communications, Julian’s ardour for Strategic Communications is vividly evident, and he diligently channels his skills to cultivate robust and streamlined teams. Central to his approach is a commitment to fostering camaraderie and a culture of unwavering support within the team dynamic.
A few words from him, “I am honoured to have been selected as MIA Impact Circle Stellar CxO 2023 awardee. My sincere gratitude to MIA for this prestigious recognition and the warm welcome to the Impact Circle Community. I am humbled by the acknowledgement of my contribution to positive community conversations; True success stems from collective effort and collaboration.
This recognition is a testament to the remarkable efforts of my team at FOY Communications, who drives me to excel every day. Thank you for celebrating our commitment to thoughtful communication and meaningful impact. This recognition is as much theirs as it is mine”
Meet Ku Sim Ling, an influential figure affectionately known as ‘Aunty HR’ or ‘Professional Bimbo’ on social media. Previously served as the Corporate Services Director at a renowned multinational, Ling held the helm of HR, Admin, Marketing, and Service Operations, a testament to her leadership prowess.
With an illustrious career spanning over two decades, she embodies a wealth of experience in the dynamic workforce solutions arena. A celebrated HR Key Opinion Leader (KOL) in Malaysia and an appointed panel member representing employers at Malaysia’s Industrial Court by MOHR, she aims to untangle the complexities of HR in an engaging and relatable manner, intertwining education and entertainment. Ling’s impact extends beyond her extensive career. Her passion lies in fostering workforce harmony and meaningful conversations. With her unique blend of wisdom and wit, Aunty HR continues to inspire, educate, and empower audiences across Malaysia and beyond.
A few words from her, “I’m deeply honored to receive the Impact Circle CXO Award. This accolade fuels my passion to advance workforce harmony and facilitate meaningful conversations that drive positive change. My gratitude to MIA for this privilege and together, let’s empower and inspire change!”
Mediha Mahmood is a legal and regulatory professional with over 20 years of experience in top legal firms and publicly listed companies, including Shearn Delamore & Co, PwC, Astro, and AirAsia Digital. She was appointed as the Executive Director of the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum in February 2021. She is committed to promoting and advocating for content self-regulation in Malaysia and has a strong track record of successful policy-making and stakeholder engagement. Mediha is committed to making a positive difference, especially in addressing changes needed to improve the lives of marginalized members of our society.
A few words from her, “I am truly honoured to receive this award, which I believe is a testament to the power of communications and connections. It has always been my belief that positive change can be ignited when we all come together with a shared purpose and a mutual goal. I am grateful for the support of everyone around me, and I remain dedicated to harnessing the power of content for progressive growth. In a world where social media is saturated with content, it is more important than ever to be a conscious curator of good content and I welcome everyone to join in.”
Muhundhan Kamarapullai comes with 25 years of experience in key leadership roles that span the domains of digital transformation, entrepreneurship, education, healthcare, technology management, and organisational capability development. He is a trained Project Management Professional, Information Security Lead Auditor (ISO27001), and Certified Professional Marketer (Asia Pacific).
As CDO, he leads the technology team at MRANTI Corp., driving innovative solutions with software advisory, human-centered design, and data analytics services. His scope also covers designing and developing MRANTI tech park with state-of-the-art technologies, such as 5G, drones, AV, and more.
Prior to this, Muhu led the business digital adoption team at Malaysia Digital Economy Corp (MDEC), helping businesses embrace digital transformation and innovation. He established the first corporate accelerator initiative, which helped guide many large organisations in their early tech innovation ventures. His role included consulting and providing advice to the Government of Malaysia on national policy development such as MyDigital blueprint, Malaysia Plans, Industry4WRD, and others.
A few words from him, “I wish to express my gratitude to MIA for the award, which I’ve been informed was the result of a rigorous selection process. A significant portion of the technological initiatives I am involved in within my organization involve disseminating awareness and education across various communication platforms. Consequently, in collaboration with my Stratcomms team, we have made it a top priority to utilize social media as our primary means of reaching out to the public and society at large.”
Stephanie Caunter brings a visionary approach to crafting impactful narratives and building lasting connections with customers as the Head of Customer Strategy and Marketing at AIA Malaysia, A true brand-builder at heart, Stephanie’s career journey reflects her unwavering commitment to leveraging the written word and harnessing the power of data-driven insights. Her unique ability to blend creative storytelling with analytical rigor has positioned her as a dynamic force in the marketing landscape. Her passion for both words and numbers has enabled her to create campaigns that not only resonate with audiences but also deliver tangible results.
Stephanie’s impact extends beyond marketing; she is a staunch advocate for gender equality and proudly identifies as a feminist. Her dedication to empowering women and promoting inclusivity is a driving force in her professional endeavors, inspiring positive change both within and outside of the workplace. Stephanie’s achievements stand as a testament to her prowess as a forward-thinking marketer who blends creativity, data, and a deep understanding of human behavior to create impactful brand experiences. Her passion for making a difference, coupled with her dedication to her craft, has solidified her reputation as a respected leader in the industry.
Tan May Lee – With over 20 years of experience as a communications specialist, Tan May Lee thrives on clients’ challenges to change perceptions and manage both brand and corporate reputation. May Lee spent her early career days in both global and local PR agencies, serving a wide breadth of industries such as telco, technology, banking, logistics, manufacturing and property. Subsequently, she crossed the fence to take on the role as an In-House Corporate Communications, while dabbling in Investor Relations and Financial Communications within the property and hospitality sectors. Taking on the unconventional path, she returned to her first love in an agency setting and eventually joined Perspective Strategies as a Partner and Executive Director where she leads ideas-driven PR activations for top companies and renowned multinational brands.
May Lee holds a First-class honours degree in Business Administration from University of Malaya, and completed her MBA (Major in Finance) from University of Wales, UK. Aside from her professional experience, May Lee is passionate about driving social change – in which she initiated the public affairs and lobbying efforts against pregnancy discrimination leading to legislation changes in the Employment Act 1955, whilst also serving as an EXCO member of the Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO), a non-profit organisation that focuses on promoting equal rights and eliminating gender-based discrimination.
Thila Suppiah comes with years of working experience in Human Resources both Strategic and Operational roles. She has worked in many industries mainly in Manufacturing, FMCG, Automotive, Legal, Pharmaceutical, Logistic and Automation. Currently attached to Smith and Nephew a Medical technology company as Regional HR Manager for APAC.
Started as a junior programmer for the HR team that was setting up their new HRIS system – she only wanted to work with computers and not humans – this is what she informed her manager. And the rest is history. She has taken on many challenging roles that have required her to travel to countries stricken by riots, government bodies, challenging leaders, businesses, and challenging people. She has coached/developed talent management for high potentials, training focused on employees climbing the ladder to become better managers.
Thila is dedicated to assisting HR professionals on various social media platforms during current crisis scenarios. She is passionate about PEOPLE, CULTURE, and ENGAGEMENT. She is currently working on ways to ensure the success of a multigenerational workforce. Mentoring on the Asia HRM forum since 2022, FutureLab Mentor, and member of the Malaysian Association of Professional Speakers.
Wan Asma’ Haji Wan Omar had an excellent and humble 23-year career in several business organisations, beginning as a Finance and Admin Executive at Telekom Malaysia Berhad. Her background includes finance, company development, customer service, and, of course, HR. Her main areas of expertise in HR are Performance Management and Talent Management. She has extensive experience dealing with GLCs, conglomerates, and now regulatory bodies, as well as exposure to a wide range of businesses and backgrounds. Truly passionate about adding value in human capital capabilities, business partnering, and strategy, as well as developing the proper personnel for the present organisation with whom she works.
She has always enjoyed working with people, thus it is a dream come true for her to be able to work as an HR Practitioner and assist others in pursuing their career goals and climbing the career ladder. While working, there is more to life, particularly when it comes to family and friend relationships.
A few words from her, “I’m humbled and grateful to be selected as one of the awardees for the MIA Impact Circle Award, I didn’t expect that my work and contributions would be seen by people out there until I got a message from Mr Haidar. Thank you so much for selecting me and I hope that this acknowledgment and recognition will be a good experience and example to young people out there that whatever we do, do it full-heartedly and be passionate about our work and our contribution to people, communities, and our beloved country. We must know what our greater purpose in life is and do as best as we can to achieve that. Last but not least, always have time to yourself as well, it is important to take care of ourselves first before we take care of others. Mentally and physically, we should be prepared to face all the challenges in our life and it’s normal to fall back but never ever give up.”
The son of Malaysian Diplomat, Zikry Kholil is a social tech entrepreneur and cofounder of Incitement, a global digital community platform that combines crowdfunding with project management tools, volunteering recruitment, corporate matching, donation transparency, charity verification, and an affiliate platform for non-profits all bundled to facilitate corporates, individual donors, content creators, users, and charity owners all in one ecosystem. Zikry is a Forbes 30 under 30 Asia honoree, A GenT Honoree, and was listed as Asia’s Most Influential by Tatler Asia. He is a 3-time Tedx global speaker who advocates strongly about social impact and innovative sustainable donations. Visionary leader fostering change worldwide.
A few words from him, “Alhamduillah, a million thanks, and gratitude to MIA for this. This honor goes out to my devoted family, whose unwavering support fuels my purpose in life. My co-founder’s dedication and our team’s relentless effort make this achievement possible. Together, we’re not just shaping impact; we’re fostering a legacy of positive transformation. This award amplifies our shared commitment to a brighter future. Thank you for recognizing our journey and motivating us to continue making a difference.”
