Datuk Azman Ismail, the former managing director and chief executive officer of PLUS Malaysia Bhd, has been appointed as the new CEO of Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB). As per the company’s announcement, Azman has begun his tenure today on 23 October 2024.
Before his tenure at PLUS, he spent 30 years with Shell Malaysia, where he held key leadership positions in various departments, including operations, retail and finance. His roles included being managing director of Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd as well as general manager of its retail business, overseeing petroleum retailing in both Malaysia and Brunei.
Azman’s appointment fills a position that had been vacant for over a year. His predecessor, Augustus Ralph Marshall, stepped down in March 2023 after completing a two-year contract. In a statement, DNB highlighted that Azman’s extensive experience and leadership are expected to propel the company’s next phase of development, particularly as it continues to focus on enhancing 5G infrastructure and services for consumers, enterprises, and public services in Malaysia.
In June this year, DNB finalised share subscription agreements with four major mobile network operators (MNOs), with each taking up approximately 16.3% stake and collectively owns 65.1% equity stake. Meanwhile, the ministry of finance retains a 34.9% stake in the company.
During the tabling of Budget 2025 last Friday, prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that DNB has transitioned to private entity management after achieving over 80% 5G coverage in populated areas across Malaysia. He also said that the government will announce a second 5G network to enhance the competitiveness of the ICT sector.
(Source: The Edge)
