KUALA LUMPUR – Despite his deteriorating health, renowned Malaysian business magnate, the late Tan Sri T. Ananda Krishnan remained committed to his work and projects until his final days.
His children have now paid tribute to the visionary mogul, recalling how he spent his last months reflecting on his remarkable life.
In an open letter, his children—Tinge (Kunju), Siripanyo (Timmy), and Indrani—described how their father, despite his private nature, took comfort in reflecting on the connections he had made.
They said Ananda, who passed away peacefully on November 28, 2024, at the age of 86, had been battling a steadily progressing lung disease. He spent his final moments in the Swiss Alps surrounded by his loved ones.
However, even as his health worsened, he continued to find joy in his work. Earlier this year, he spent time on his boat in Turkey, fully engaged in his projects, they said.
“It was only when he returned to Switzerland that it became clear his condition was rapidly advancing,”
“Over the last few weeks and months, so much of his reminiscing revolved around the people he met throughout his life: how fortunate he felt to have made such good friends, and to have received so much goodwill and support over the years,” they wrote.
His children shared that their father, known for his discreet nature, rarely expressed his emotions outwardly but always placed great importance on the people he surrounded himself with.
“But being a private man, he kept his thoughts largely to himself, and was certainly not one for sentimental goodbyes,” they said.
He lived a life that spanned the globe, from pre-war Kuala Lumpur to becoming a billionaire businessman with investments that shaped industries both in Malaysia and internationally, they said.
It is understood that his remains are expected to be flown home to Malaysia sometime next week.
Ananda ’s death was confirmed by his company, Usaha Tegas Sdn Bhd, on Thursday. The company paid tribute to his contributions to the corporate world and his philanthropic efforts.
“He has made significant contributions to nation building and the corporate world. His philanthropic initiatives have touched many lives,” the company said in a statement.
Ranked as Malaysia’s third-richest individual by Forbes in 2024, Ananda was widely known for his visionary investments.
His contributions significantly shaped nation-building and the corporate world. 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 and strategic foresight.
His illustrious career began in pre-war Kuala Lumpur and spanned globally. Ananda founded Maxis Bhd, one of Malaysia’s top mobile operators, and Astro Malaysia Holdings, a prominent broadcasting and media company.
His investments extended to Bumi Armada Bhd, a major oilfield services provider, and Measat, a key player in satellite communications.
His business ventures also included significant stakes in leisure and property sectors.
Ananda’s philanthropic initiatives, particularly through the Yu Cai Foundation, supported education and underserved communities, leaving a lasting impact on many lives.
Despite his remarkable achievements, he preferred a low profile, avoiding media attention, and leading a private life between Malaysia and France with his wife.
Ananda’s business acumen was exemplified in developing the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in KLCC.
Ananda acquired the former Selangor Turf Club site for RM110 million, transforming it into a landmark development. He later sold his stakes in KLCC Holdings Bhd to Petronas for a substantial sum, marking one of his most notable financial achievements.
Ananda was also instrumental in the historic Live Aid concert in 1985, which raised US$240 million for African famine relief.
His financial support and strategic contributions were pivotal in organizing the 16-hour-long “superconcert,” which was broadcast live to an estimated 1.9 billion people across 150 countries. This event featured iconic performances, including Queen’s legendary set led by Freddie Mercury.
Ananda is survived by his three children – two daughters, and his only son Ven Ajahn Siripanyo, a Buddhist monk based in Thailand. – November 30, 2024
