[UPDATED] Telco tycoon Ananda Krishnan dies at 86

KUALA LUMPUR – Telecommunications tycoon Tan Sri T. Ananda Krishnan has passed away at the age of 86.

His death was confirmed by local investment holding company Usaha Tegas Sdn Bhd in a statement today.

The company, which has Ananda as its chairman, requested that his family’s wishes to mourn in private be respected.

“He has made significant contributions to nation building and the corporate world. His philanthropic initiatives have touched many lives,” it added.

Ranked earlier this year as Malaysia’s third-richest individual by Forbes with a net worth of US$5.1 billion (RM22.89 billion), Ananda was renowned for his visionary investments. He founded Maxis Bhd, one of Malaysia’s top mobile operators, and Astro Malaysia Holdings, a prominent broadcasting and media company. 

Additionally, he held significant stakes in Bumi Armada Bhd, a major oilfield services provider, through Objektif Bersatu Sdn Bhd​.

Ananda’s business ventures extended globally, involving satellite communications via Measat and investments in various sectors, including leisure and property. He also made notable philanthropic efforts, particularly in education, through the Yu Cai Foundation and other initiatives that supported underserved communities​

His passing marks the end of an era for Malaysia’s corporate landscape, where his business acumen and strategic foresight played a pivotal role in shaping industries. 

The late Ananda, despite his remarkable achievements, preferred to maintain a low profile, avoiding media attention. He led a private life, splitting his time between Malaysia and France, where he lived with his wife.

He is survived by his three children – two daughters, and his only son Ven Ajahn Siripanyo, who took a spiritual path and is now a Buddhist monk based in Thailand. – November 28, 2024