PLUS appoints former Star Media Group COO as CTO

PLUS Malaysia Bhd (PLUS) has appointed Kang Yew Jin (pic) as its new chief technology officer (CTO), which is part of its strategic move to drive the company’s goal of assimilating large data applications into its day-to-day operations.

In a statement, PLUS said Kang has over 20 years of proven track record as a seasoned IT professional. His recognition includes being installed Pikom chief informatio officer (CIO) for of the year 2015, awarded the Asian Banker Technology Innovation Award in 2016 for a cloud-based project, and awarded the IDC Financial Insights Innovation Award for 2015 and 2016.

Prior to joining PLUS, Kang was chief operating officer for digital and print at Star Media Group, PLUS said. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (computer engineering) from the University of New South Wales, Australia.

“I am excited to join PLUS as it gives me an opportunity to contribute towards a national icon and see how the usage of technology and data can be utilised to uplift PLUS’ capabilities," said Kang of his appointment.

Kang said he could see that PLUS makes use of a lot of technology in its daily routine and that there is a continuous mindset of wanting to further digitise PLUS’ current operations.

“It’s refreshing to be part of a forward thinking organisation utilising technologies such as cloud, AI and usage of apps to build a connected ecosystem of the highway of the future,” he added.

According to Azman Ismail, managing director of PLUS, Kang's appointment is in line with PLUS’ aspiration to continue using technology and data to improve not only the experience of its customers but also improve its back end operations, which is vital to ensure seamless operational practices and in the long run improve efficiency and reduce cost.