NexG Bhd, the company behind Malaysia’s secure passports and MyKad, has restructured its leadership following a recent boardroom dispute.
Under the new structure, Ishak Ismail has been appointed executive chairman, while Abu Hanifah Noordin has been named deputy executive chairman and group CEO.
Ishak Ismail is now executive chairman while NexG Bhd founder Abu Hanifah Noordin is group chief executive officer.
Ishak, a substantial shareholder through a family trust, said his involvement reflects a long-term commitment. He is reported to hold a 20.4% stake via an air cargo company controlled by his sons, while Hanifah holds 9.579%. “Our role ensures that NexG, which operates sensitive national identification systems including MyKad, passports, biometric technologies, and broader data platforms, remains stable, well-governed, and secure,” Ishak said.
He emphasized that NexG provides the technology, while personalisation and issuance remain fully under government control, maintaining the integrity of the systems.
Ishak added that Hanifah, the company’s founder, “understands the business, its technology, and operations better than anyone” and is the right person to lead NexG, strengthen its capabilities, and expand beyond Malaysia.
The leadership changes come after a recent tussle between competing shareholder groups, which resulted in several directors resigning and raised governance concerns. The new structure is aimed at stabilizing the company and safeguarding its operations.
