KUALA LUMPUR – Mass Rapid Transit Corp Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) announced on Wednesday the appointment of Datuk Seri Saripuddin Kasim as its new non-executive chairman, effective immediately.
Saripuddin, who previously held the position of executive chairman at the Malaysian Aviation Commission from May 2020 until the body’s dissolution in August 2025, succeeds Tan Sri Bashir Ahmad Abdul Majid. Bashir, the former managing director of Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd, had chaired MRT Corp since April 2023.
In a statement, MRT Corp highlighted that Saripuddin’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture as the company continues its expansion into transit-oriented development (TOD), integrated property ventures, and new commercial revenue streams, while reinforcing its position in national mobility.
The company is actively refurbishing trains on the MRT Kajang Line and progressing with major projects, such as the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, the Penang LRT Mutiara Line, and the MRT3 Circle Line.
MRT Corp CEO Datuk Mohd Zarif Hashim expressed confidence that Saripuddin’s extensive experience in government service would provide valuable strategic guidance as the company embarks on its next phase of development. “His profound expertise in public policy, governance, and regulatory oversight will play a pivotal role in shaping an improved transit environment that enhances connectivity and supports the nation’s long-term urban growth,” Zarif said.
Saripuddin brings over 30 years of public service experience to his new role. He has served as the director-general of the Legal Affairs Division in the Prime Minister’s Department and as secretary-general in various ministries, including Transport, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Human Resources, and Federal Territories.
Additionally, he led the Malaysian Aviation Commission as its executive chairman from May 2020 until its closure in August 2025.
MRT Corp is set to benefit from his vast leadership expertise as it moves forward with its ambitious plans for the future. – November 19, 2025