Ananda Krishnan, one of Malaysia’s wealthiest individuals who was instrumental in bringing satellite television to the country as part of his communications empire, died on Thursday aged 86, according to his investment company.
Widely referred to by his initials AK, he established satellite operator Measat and later local broadcast giant Astro. He also founded Maxis, one of Malaysia’s largest telecommunications companies.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the demise of our Chairman, Mr Ananda Krishnan Tatparanandam, who passed away peacefully on 28 November 2024,” read a statement issued by his firm, Usaha Tegas.
The statement did not state the cause of death.
Ananda was ranked Malaysia’s sixth-richest person, with an estimated net worth of US$5.1 billion, according to the Forbes 2024 Billionaires List.
More to follow …