AirAsia Group chief executive officer Tony Fernandes has joined the board of Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd as independent non-executive director, effective today.

In a statement today, Star Publications chairperson Dr Fong Chan Onn said: “Fernandes is a farsighted entrepreneur who has built a global brand in AirAsia, and we hope to tap on his insights and exposure in the global stage to grow in Malaysia beyond.”

Fernandes replaces Syed Abdul Jaabar Syed Hassan who did not seek re-appointment after serving nearly 15 years as non-executive director.

“It is an honour and I look forward to contributing in whatever way I can, as The Star seeks to expand from print to become a multi-channel media company,” Fernandes said.

“They have recently rolled out some exciting products like ePaper and iSnap , and I believe there are more to come in the digital space where there are many opportunities,” he said.

- Bernama