After nearly two decades, Lim Kok Thay’s exit as CEO of Genting Berhad marks a defining shift in Malaysia’s sprawling business empire, as attention turns to the next generation and the group’s evolving structure
[KUALA LUMPUR] Malaysia’s Genting Group, one of Asia’s largest family-run conglomerates, may be transitioning to a more professional corporate structure as long-time chief Lim Kok Thay stepped down after nearly two decades. Observers said this move could strengthen governance, reassure investors and address succession risks.
Tradeview Capital portfolio manager Neoh Jia Man noted that institutional investors have historically paid close attention to Genting’s family-controlled leadership. “A shift in management could help restore confidence in the company’s direction and long-term strategy,” Neoh told The Business Times.
Another fund manager, who declined to be named, noted that the Lim family has long maintained control over Genting, with Lim Kok Thay – widely known as “KT” in corporate circles – as the current patriarch of the family dynasty. One of Asia’s wealthiest yet famously low-profile figures, Lim Kok Thay succeeded his late father, Genting founder Lim Goh Tong, as group chairman in 2004.
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