KUALA LUMPUR (June 22): Allianz Malaysia Bhd announced the redesignation of its non-independent and non-executive director, Zakri Mohd Khir, as its new chairman effective June 23.

In a Bursa Malaysia filing on Wednesday (June 22), the group said Zakri, who also served as CEO of Allianz Malaysia previously, will be replacing Tan Sri Dr Rafiah Salim who retired from the post after helming the group since May 2018.

In a statement, Rafiah said: “it has been a privilege and an honour to have served as Chairman of the Malaysian entity of one of the largest global insurers.”

“As I call time on my career with Allianz Malaysia, I am content and perfectly happy with what we have achieved, and it is with great confidence that I pass the mantle to Zakri.

“As our former CEO, I have witnessed Zakri’s foresight, bold business moves and impeccable leadership, and I am very excited to see what the future holds for the company,” said Rafiah.

Zakri, 58, has over 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, having served as CEO of Allianz Malaysia, and Executive Director of Allianz General Insurance Co (M) Bhd, for over seven years from Sept 3, 2014 to December 31, 2021.

He joined Allianz Malaysia in 2000 as the Head of Industrial Business and was subsequently appointed as the Head of Technical Division in 2004. He also served as Head of Operations Division of Allianz General.

Before joining Allianz, Zakri was the General Manager of The American Malaysian Insurance Bhd.

Shares in Allianz finished 10 sen or 0.79% higher at RM12.80, valuing the life and general insurance provider at RM2.28 billion.