KUALA LUMPUR (May 28): Ex-Hong Leong Bank Bhd chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Yvonne Chia has been appointed independent non-executive director at Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Bhd.

In a statement to Bursa Malaysia yesterday, aluminium smelting and extrusion company Press Metal said Chia's appointment was effective yesterday (May 27).

"She has more than 40 years' experience in the financial services industry, having held leading positions at both foreign and local institutions. She started her career at Bank of America and held various roles in Malaysia and the Asia region.

"She was the group managing director and CEO of RHB Bank Bhd from 1996 to 2002 and Hong Leong Bank from 2003 to 2013," Press Metal said.

In a separate statement yesterday, Press Metal said Datuk Wira Dr Megat Abdul Rahman Megat Ahmad had resigned as the company's non-executive chairman "due to other personal commitments".

Press Metal said Megat Abdul Rahman's resignation was effective yesterday (May 27).

"Megat Abdul Rahman has given the company the benefit of his extensive and invaluable experience. 

"Following his resignation, the board and the nomination committee will look into the succession process in identifying the appointment of a successor to be appointed chairman of the board," Press Metal said.

At 11.30am today, Press Metal shares traded down four sen or 0.77% at RM5.16, which gives the group an estimated RM41.69 billion market capitalisation.

Press Metal has 8.08 billion issued shares, according to its latest quarterly financial report.