Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), owner of Malaysia Airlines, has appointed Nasaruddin Bakar as its new president and CEO, effective January 31, 2026.
Nasaruddin, a former Malaysia Airlines pilot who goes by the nickname ‘Captain Nasa’, will replace Izham Ismail, who will retire from his position as group managing director.
The president and group CEO positions are new designations at MAG, where up until Bakar’s appointment, group managing director was the highest position within the company's senior management.
Bakar is described as a “home-grown leader” with more than three decades' experience across flight operations, management, and strategic roles within MAG.
He has also held several leadership positions within the Group, most recently as chief operating officer of Malaysia Airlines.
“He brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of MAG’s business, culture and strategic ambitions, having led multiple transformation initiatives,” the company said.
As president and group CEO, Bakar will oversee the execution of MAG’s strategic priorities, driving operational excellence, customer experience, and sustainable growth across both its airlines and non-airlines portfolio.
Current group managing director Ismail began his career with Malaysia Airlines as a pilot in 1979.
He rose through the ranks to hold various key leadership roles before being appointed as MAG group managing director in December 2017, making him the company’s longest-serving chief executive to date.
During his tenure, Ismail oversaw key financial restructuring and operational improvement efforts that helped return MAG to profitability.
“The Group’s stronger financial position now puts it in a better standing to embark on its next phase of growth towards improved performance and more sustainable operations under new leadership,” the company said.