S.M. Nasaruddin is new Naza boss

According to Bernama, SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, the second son of the late Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin SM Amin, has been appointed the NAZA Group of Companies chief executive officer in line with his father’s wishes.

In addition, SM Nasarudin will assume the post of the group’s executive chairman, the widow of the late tycoon, Puan Sri Zaleha Ismail, said in a two-paragraph statement issued here Friday.

“The family of (the late) Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin SM Amin is pleased to announce that following his wishes, SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin has been appointed to succeed (him) as Group Executive Chairman and CEO of the NAZA Group of Companies.

“SM Nasarudin’s appointment will take effect immediately,” she said.

The founder and chairman of the Naza Group died at a private hospital in Long Beach, Los Angeles, on May 1 at the age of 53 due to lung cancer.

SM Nasimuddin also leaves behind five children and a grandson.

The Naza Group, formed in 1974, has 14 business divisions including motor trading, motorcycles, manufacturing, transport services, machine tools & parts, engineering, plantations, cigarette distribution, credit & leasing, water crafts, properties, food & beverage outlet, hotel operations and insurance agency.

Naza Group is the franchise holder in Malaysia for Ferrari, South Korea’s Kia, Peugeot, Brabus, Hamann and Ducati bikes, and also holds import permits for Mercedes-Benz and Mazda vehicles.

In August 2005, Naza opened its doors to a new automotive showroom which became the company’s landmark – Naza Auto Mall.