Axiata appoints Didi Syafruddin Yahya as director, strengthening finance, investment, and strategic competence on the board

• Brings 30+ years of expertise in finance, risk, and investment strategy
• Presently the president commissioner of PT Bank CIMB Niaga & senior independent director at CIMB Group

Axiata Group Berhad has appointed Didi Syafruddin Yahya (pic) as an independent non-executive director, effective 1 June 2025.

In a statement, the company said Didi, a seasoned leader in finance, investment banking, and corporate governance, brings over three decades of expertise in strategic financial management, risk oversight, and investment advisory. With a strong academic foundation from the University of Cambridge and a Fellow Chartered Accountant designation from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, he has advised regional and global financial institutions on governance, sustainability, and strategic investments.

Currently serving as the president commissioner at PT Bank CIMB Niaga Tbk and the senior independent director of CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, Didi has been instrumental in strengthening board governance, risk management, and financial strategy. His leadership experience includes senior roles at JP Morgan Malaysia and Indonesia, Morgan Grenfell, and Arthur Andersen & Co., making him a key driver in investment banking and financial sustainability.

Didi’s appointment to Axiata’s board of directors aligns with the group’s commitment to financial excellence, strategic expansion, and corporate governance in an evolving digital and telecoms landscape. His insights into investment strategy, risk management, and financial transformation will be pivotal in advancing Axiata’s growth.

Shahril Ridza Ridzuan, chairman of Axiata, said: “Didi’s extensive leadership experience and financial acumen are highly valuable to Axiata’s future strategy. His expertise in governance, risk oversight, and investment management will strengthen our board as we continue driving sustainable growth. We are delighted to welcome him and look forward to his contributions.”

Meanwhile, Vivek Sood, group CEO and managing director of Axiata, said: “Didi’s deep understanding of investment strategies, corporate finance, and governance will be instrumental in Axiata’s strategic focus on portfolio alignment and value creation. I welcome him to the board at a time when the group is undergoing a transformation and simplification of its portfolio.”