The telecommunications group also appointed Hans Wijayasuriya as group executive director and CEO of the telco business.

Axiata chairman Shahril Ridza Ridzuan said their track record of success as the group’s joint interim CEOs put them in the ideal position to lead Axiata into the future and ensure the continuity of its strategies.

Shahril added that the completion of the Celcom-Digi merger at the end of last year was due to their skilful leadership in closing a complex transaction.

“That has created the largest Malaysian telco, under the capable leadership of the best Malaysian talents in our group,” he said in a statement.

According to Shahril, the completion of the Celcom-Digi deal has allowed Axiata to now focus on its strategic goals in other markets, primarily South Asia and Indonesia, and to drive further innovation and value in its digital infrastructure and services businesses.

Vivek had served as group chief financial officer for almost six years and while maintaining his role, he was also appointed as one of the joint interim CEOs for the group last year.

In his new role at Axiata, Vivek will lead the company’s strategic growth initiatives, including the expansion of 5G and digital infrastructure and service offerings.

He will also be responsible for driving innovation, improving the customer experience across operating companies throughout Asia and creating value for shareholders.