Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan Tatparanandam has passed away at the age of 86.
His death was confirmed by Usaha Tegas, an investment holding company where Ananda is the chairman.
“He has made significant contributions to nation building and the corporate world; and his philanthropic initiatives have touched many lives.
“We humbly ask that the family’s wishes to mourn in private be respected,” Usaha Tegas said.
Who is Ananda Krishnan?
Not only was he a business tycoon, Ananda was also a well known philanthropist.
He was born on 1 April, 1938, in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur, and is widely recognized as one of the wealthiest individuals in Malaysia.
Early Life and Education
Ananda attended Victoria Institution in KL and later pursued higher education in Australia, earning a degree in political science from University of Melbourne.
He later completed an MBA at Harvard Business School.
Ananda began his career in the oil industry and later diversified into various sectors including telecommunications, media, energy, and real estate.
He founded Usaha Tegas Group, which has investments in major companies like Maxis Communications (telecommunications), Astro Malaysia (broadcasting), and MEASAT Satellite Systems.
He played a key role in bringing satellite television to Malaysia with the launch of Astro.
As of recent estimates, Ananda’s net worth is valued at several billion USD, making him one of Southeast Asia’s wealthiest individuals.
Despite his immense wealth, he is known for maintaining a low public profile.
Ananda is also recognized for his philanthropic activities, particularly in education and healthcare.
He has funded scholarships and initiatives to support underprivileged students in Malaysia and other countries.
He is known for being intensely private and rarely gives interviews or appears in public.
He has one son, Ajahn Siripanyo, who interestingly, despite his father’s wealth, has renounced all wordly riches at 18. Ajahn chose the path of monasticism.