KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 13): Philip Morris (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (PMM) has appointed Naeem Khan (pictured) as managing director of the company effective Jan 1, replacing Kang TaeKoo.

In a statement today, PMM said Naeem brings with him 21 years of experience in managing corporate, business, and commercial activities across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.

Before joining PMM, Naeem was the co-founder and chief operating officer of EZbuy Holding Ltd in Pakistan, an international online shopping platform that brings quality products in a convenient way to shoppers all around the world.

Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Naeem spent 18 years of his professional career at one of the largest consumer/healthcare companies in the world, rising to be the chairman and CEO of Phillips Group of Co in Malaysia in 2011 and vice-president of consumer lighting for emerging markets based out of China.

"The tobacco industry is evolving rapidly, new and robust innovations that build on harm reduction will help the world achieve smoke-free future in a faster pace," said Naeem.

"We will strive to position Philip Morris Malaysia as a responsible corporate entity which contributes positively to the Malaysian economy," he added.

"Naeem is a genuine leader who has a strong organisational focus on developing people. He was recognised in accelerating revenue growth in commercial and healthcare environments through product marketing, innovation, as well as consumer experience," said Philip Morris International president for East Asia and Australia region Paul Riley.

"His proven track record of successfully transforming and turning around businesses with an innovative approach makes him the perfect leader in driving Malaysia business towards a smoke-free future," he added.