The Malaysian Global Innovation & Creativity Centre (MaGIC) has recently announced the appointment of Mr. Ashran Dato’ Ghazi as their new Chief Executive Officer. This comes few months after Cheryl Yeoh’s last official day on the 14th of January this year.
So who is this Ashran Dato’ Ghazi? If you’re familiar with the local startup scene, you probably would have come across his name before. But just in case you haven’t, here are four things you need to know about this newly appointed CEO.
1. He is the Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of Joota.
In 2011, Ashran co-founded Joota, a social content networking site that allows users to curate content and follow specific area of interest. By 2013, Joota managed to garner private investment of USD 2.1 million with patent and distribution partners in USA. On top of that, Joota also won the Best of the Best Award from MAD TechVentures 2013.
2. He is equipped with cross-industry experience.
Ashran has a wealth of experience in various industries namely, Construction, Oil & Gas, Technology, Media, Communication, Events Management, and Human Capital Development. He may be in the creative/tech industry now but he actually started off his career with Petronas Mitco. His wide range of skills and experience will surely aide him in his new MaGIC journey.
3. He is a man of multiple hats and plays many roles.
Chairman of Youth Trust Foundation (myHarapan), chairman of New Entrepreneurs Foundation (myNEF), deputy chairman of the Global Innovation & Entrepreneurship Foundation, president of the Malaysian Association of Bumiputera ICT Industry & Entrepreneurs (NEF)… if that doesn’t spell leadership, we don’t know what does.
4. He is passionate in contributing back to the Malaysian and Southeast Asian startup scene.
His recent initiative include creating ComicXcel, a specialised 3-month accelerator program for talents and/or companies who wants to start a business in the creative content industry, as well as the Rice Bowl Startup Awards, a new ASEAN regional award for startups.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to follow Ashran on his LinkedIN page!
Vulcan Post would like to congratulate Ashran on his appointment and we look forward to the new leadership to elevate the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Malaysia to greater heights.
Feature image credit: Digital News Asia