The Experts
PROFESOR MADYA DR YUSOF SAARI
Dr. Mohd Yusof Saari, an Associate Professor at the School of Business and Economics, Universiti Putra Malaysia, is internationally recognized for his expertise in economics and labor markets. Since 2022, he has served as a Labor Market Economist at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) in the UAE. Previously, he led the Future Labor Market Research Center, a joint initiative of MOHRE and Universiti Putra Malaysia. In 2020, he played a crucial role in shaping Malaysia’s economic recovery policies as part of the Economic Action Council Secretariat under the Prime Minister’s Department. Dr. Mohd Yusof is frequently quoted in major media for his economic insights and is a regular columnist.
DATUK YONG SOO HEONG
Datuk Yong Soo Heong, boasting over five decades of media expertise, currently presides as the President of the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI). Since April 2023, he serves as an Advisor to the National Press Club of Malaysia and holds the role of Editor-in-Chief at The Weekly Echo. During his tenure as Editor-in-Chief of BERNAMA from 2007 to 2012 and CEO until 2014, he spearheaded significant reforms, expanding networks and forging strong alliances with news agencies across ASEAN and globally. His initiatives bolstered BERNAMA’s standing as a trusted regional and global news outlet. He continues to lend strategic oversight to BERNAMA as a Supervisory Council Committee Member since 2020.
ASRO KAMAL ROKAN
Asro Kamal Rokan is a leading figure in Indonesian journalism, having formerly helmed the Antara news agency and served on the Honorary Council of the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI). With a robust background, he also led as Editor-in-Chief of Harian Republika. Asro Kamal is pivotal in strengthening Indonesia-Malaysia relations through his involvement in the Malaysia-Indonesia Journalists Friendship Association (ISWAMI). Founded in 2003, ISWAMI acts as a crucial conduit for media relations between the two nations, enhancing mutual prosperity.
DATO’ KHAIRUL ANWAR SALLEH
Dato’ Khairul Anwar Salleh (Dato’ Khai) is a seasoned media executive with over 25 years in the industry, formerly CEO of Media Prima. He led Malay and Nusantara Content at Astro Malaysia, driving initiatives that boosted revenue. Recognized with awards like Malaysia Book of Records for Longest Running Comedy and Asian TV Awards. With a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts (Sculpture) from Curtin University (1992) and a Diploma from La Salle College of Arts (1989), he now serves on the Executive Committee of Cultural Economy Development Agency (Cendana).
IMRAN FAUZI
Imran Fauzi is a versatile professional with a robust background in healthcare, arts, marketing, and law. Starting as a Pharmacist, he developed strong customer service skills and a solid healthcare foundation. A graduate of the University of Otago, New Zealand, his international education broadened his global perspective. Transitioning into acting and marketing, Imran excelled in modeling and featured in campaigns for prestigious brands such as Marriott Hotels, Porsche, and Qatar Airways. Amidst the pandemic, he pursued an LLB from the University of London, showcasing his commitment to intellectual growth and justice. Imran’s diverse experiences and innovative problem-solving skills position him as a highly valuable professional.
ERMAN ALIAS
Mohd. Erman bin Alias is a seasoned IT professional with nearly two decades of experience, demonstrating leadership in major projects at BioSecure Solutions, S5 Systems, and Mesiniaga Berhad. His expertise includes managing biometric systems for the Malaysian Immigration Department, overseeing 3,500 devices nationwide. He led significant projects like Malaysia Single Token for Malaysia Airport Holdings, National Enforcement and Registration System (NERS), and Foreigner eGATE. Additionally, he supervised the iKAD project and Immigration Security Clearance (ISC) for the Ministry of Home Affairs. Erman’s extensive experience and technical proficiency make him an invaluable asset in IT leadership and project management.