Malaysia Aviation Group announced today that managing director Izham Ismail will be retiring from his position effective Jan 31, after more than four decades with the company.
In a statement, the company said Izham would be replaced by Nasaruddin Bakar as president and group CEO, a new designation succeeding the role of managing director.
MAG said Izham began his career with Malaysia Airlines as a pilot in 1979, later taking on various key leadership roles before being appointed group managing director on Dec 1, 2017, “making him the company’s longest-serving chief executive to date”.
“During his tenure, Izham oversaw key financial restructuring and operational improvement efforts that helped return MAG to profitability in recent years.
“The group’s stronger financial position now puts it in a better position to embark on its next phase of growth towards improved performance and more sustainable operations under new leadership,” said MAG.
MAG board member and Khazanah Nasional Bhd managing director Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir thanked Izham for his “outstanding service and leadership”.
“He has exemplified relentless commitment, integrity and passion in guiding MAG through pivotal periods of transformation and growth,” he said.
MAG said Nasaruddin, a homegrown leader with over three decades of experience, has held several leadership positions within the group, most recently as chief operating officer of Malaysia Airlines.
“He brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of MAG’s business, culture and strategic ambitions, having led multiple transformation initiatives, including the successful turnaround of MASwings in 2022,” said the company.
