KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 1): Main Market-listed Pertama Digital Bhd has appointed Saify Akhtar as its new chief executive officer.

In a statement on Thursday (Dec 1), the company also announced the appointment of Sivabalan Poobalasingam (Balan) as its chief financial officer.

Both appointments take effect on Thursday.

Pertama Digital said Saify as the CEO will be responsible for spearheading and driving the company forward, with bold and innovative business plans, to ensure a sustainable and profitable future.

Meanwhile, it said Balan will be tasked with structuring and focusing on improving Pertama Digital’s financial health through prudent financial management as required of any public listed company.

Saify was previously the director of strategy at Pertama Digital. He was instrumental in driving the company through the progressive years of its formation.

Pertama Digital said he brings with him the necessary drive and experience required to lead the development of the company into its next strategic phase of growth and expansion. 

It said Saify will be tasked with leading Pertama Digital through its strategic plan of digitalisation of government services, shariah compliance and leadership, and customer experience and satisfaction. 

The company said Saify’s experience also includes attracting investments, both locally and internationally, towards high-growth technology opportunities in the same markets, where 85% of the global population resides.

It said beyond capital, he is adept at facilitating international technology companies, including unicorn start-ups, to land and deploy their offerings in Southeast Asia.

Pertama Digital chairman Tun Zaki Tun Azmi said Saify’s understanding and commitment are pivotal in ensuring the success of future plans of the company. 

“Combined with the strength of our people and service offerings, I believe he will be able to elevate the company to greater heights. 

“He has the leadership skills necessary to guide Pertama Digital to achieve its goals and aspirations,” the chairman said.

Meanwhile, Balan’s past positions included being the director of finance at edotco Group (Axiata Group), as well as with Khazanah Nasional Bhd’s subsidiary Rhizophora Ventures Sdn Bhd. 

He was responsible for business planning, budgetary controls, financial operations, and statutory reporting for Rhizophora Ventures, while originating multiple investment initiatives for Khazanah.

At the midday break on Thursday, Pertama Digital was flat at RM1.78 apiece, with 5.63 million shares traded.