Nik Norzrul has been a board member of the group since June 16, 2022. Prior to this appointment, he was named as interim chairman of SDP on June 15, 2023 following the retirement of Megat Najmuddin Megat Khas.

He currently practises law at Zaid Ibrahim & Co, Malaysia’s largest law firm. Prior to that, he worked at the international law firm Baker & McKenzie.

Nik Norzrul was also appointed as chairman of the Malaysia-Singapore Business Council by the international trade and industry ministry in 2017.

“He has expertise in a vast range of areas including Islamic finance, banking, offshore finance, debt restructuring, as well as international, corporate and commercial law,” the group said in a statement today.

Currently, he is also the chairman of Malaysian Rating Corporation Bhd and T7 Global Bhd. He also sits on the board of directors of Amanah Saham Nasional Bhd, Cagamas Holdings Bhd and Pertama Digital Bhd.

Nik Norzrul holds a law degree from the University of Buckingham, a master’s law degree from Queen Mary College, University of London, and a PhD in law from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London.

His appointment signifies a new chapter for SDP as the company continues its pursuit of growth and innovation in the palm oil sector, the statement said.

“He takes the reins at a pivotal time in SDP’s transformational journey in the palm oil industry. He has been a strong proponent of our ongoing initiatives in mechanisation, automation and digitalisation.

“Under his guidance and leadership, we look forward to the opportunities ahead, steadfast in our commitment to maximising value for our shareholders”, said SDP managing director Helmy Othman Basha.