KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 30): Riad Asmat has been appointed to AirAsia Aviation Group’s (AAG) board of advisers following his resignation as the chief executive officer of its subsidiary AirAsia Bhd (AirAsia Malaysia) effective Dec 31, 2023.

In a statement on Saturday, AAG said Riad will continue to be on the board of AirAsia Malaysia and Ground Team Red — a joint venture between AirAsia Malaysia and SATS Ltd — while providing consultancy work for Capital A Aviation Services.

The group said: “Riad, through his strategic vision and profound leadership, has played a crucial role in navigating the airline through the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. His leadership has been instrumental in not only sustaining the airline during these unprecedented times but also in positioning it for a promising future in the post-pandemic landscape.”

He was appointed as CEO of AirAsia Malaysia on Jan 10, 2018, and was responsible for the management of the company’s Malaysia-based operations.

“I am proud to have been given the opportunity to work with AirAsia and the amazing Allstars. This was not an easy decision considering how each and every one truly meant to me as my airline family throughout this very meaningful journey in my life. Thank you Datuk Kamarudin, Tony, Bo and all our Allstars for the undying support given to me throughout my tenure and I am forever grateful. While stepping down as CEO, I am looking forward to continue supporting the company in its next chapter,” said Riad.

Meanwhile, AAG group CEO Bo Lingam said: “We extend our deepest appreciation to Riad for his outstanding leadership and remarkable contributions to AirAsia Group. While Riad has decided to step down from the CEO position, he will remain an integral part of AirAsia by joining the board of advisers. All our operations will continue as usual, unaffected by this transition. We look forward to continuing our journey with his guidance and have full confidence in the capable hands of the team while ensuring a smooth transition when the new CEO is appointed.”