Cisco appoints new Malaysia head to lead growth, accelerate digitalisation

• Takes over from Albert Chai, who leaves after nearly 12 years at the helm
• New MD brings strategic planning, business management, leadership to position

CISCO Systems Inc has announced the appointment of Hana Raja as managing director for its Malaysian business. She will be take over from Albert Chai, who is leaving Cisco after a career spanning nearly 12 years.

In a statement, the company said Raja will focus on accelerating digital transformation of customers across the country, working closely with Cisco’s partner ecosystem.   

“Hana’s appointment highlights our long-standing commitment to retaining top talent in the industry and getting the best leadership team on board. Alongside her experience in Cisco and the Asean market, she is set to bring a new wave of energy that strengthens our vision to advance Malaysia’s digital economy vision,” said Naveen Menon, president for Cisco Asean.

Raja brings with her 12 years experience in strategic planning, business management and leadership roles across various sectors, Cisco said.

Most recently, she led Cisco’s strategy and operations for Asean for the past two years while based in the Kuala Lumpur office, it added.

“With the country’s increasing technological maturity, we have an opportunity to transform the way people, technology and partners connect, collaborate, and innovate.

“I look forward to leading Cisco to advance Malaysia into a secured, trusted digital economy where businesses, investors, and our communities can seize the potential of technology and its benefits,” said Raja.

Following her appointment, she said she plans to drive sustainable long-term growth for Cisco Malaysia.

Prior to Cisco, Raja was with Bain & Company, facilitating strategic transformation for companies in oil and gas, industrial goods, retail and automotive sectors across Asean.

“We thank Albert for his immeasurable contributions to our customers, partners, and teams. Having been with us close to a decade, he leaves a great legacy, and we look forward to partnering with Raja to further build on that foundation,” he added.