by RUPINDER SINGH
Westports Holdings Bhd, one of Malaysia’s leading port operators, is grieving the passing of its esteemed founder and executive chairman, Tan Sri Gnanalingam Gunanath Lingam, who died at the age of 78.
Westports made an official announcement on the stock exchange expressing their deep sorrow and paying tribute to the remarkable legacy left behind by Tan Sri Datuk Gnanalingam.
“Today, with heavy hearts, Westports announces the peaceful passing of our beloved executive chairman, Tan Sri Datuk Gnanalingam Gunanath Lingam, at the age of 78,” the statement read.
“Tan Sri Datuk Gnanalingam, the founder of the company, was a true inspiration who touched our lives and the community with his compassion, generosity, and kindness.”
The announcement went on to recognise Gnanalingam’s exceptional vision and stewardship, which transformed Westports and Port Klang into Malaysia’s premier gateway port and a prominent transshipment hub in Southeast Asia.
The directors and management of Westports extended their deepest condolences to Tan Sri Datuk Gnanalingam’s family during this time of grief.
Gnanalingam was widely regarded as a highly respected figure within the transportation and logistics industry.
His journey with Westports began in 1994 when he successfully secured the concession to operate the port.
Under his visionary leadership, Westports flourished, establishing itself as Port Klang’s leading terminal operator and a key player in global maritime trade.
Gnanalingam’s dedication, strategic insights, and unwavering pursuit of excellence propelled Westports to new heights.
Born on September 10, 1944, Gnanalingam possessed a wealth of knowledge and experience.
After completing his education at the Royal Military College and the University of Malaya, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree, he further honed his skills at the prestigious Harvard Business School.
In 1983, he attended the Advanced Management Programme, enhancing his expertise in business management.
Gnanalingam’s impressive career began in 1968 with the British American Tobacco group, where he swiftly ascended the ranks, eventually becoming the marketing director in 1980.
In 1988, he founded G-Team Consultants Sdn Bhd, a successful marketing consultancy that acted as the corporate consultant for the marketing operations of Radio Television Malaysia until 2000.
His most significant achievement came in 1994 when he secured the concession to operate Westports, setting in motion the transformation of the port into a global logistics hub.
Gnanalingam’s entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision played instrumental roles in shaping Westports into the thriving and prosperous enterprise it is today.
Throughout his illustrious career, Gnanalingam received numerous accolades and recognition for his exceptional contributions to the transportation and logistics industry.
In 2001, he was honoured as the Transport Man of the Year by the Ministry of Transport, Malaysia, in acknowledgment of his significant impact on the sector.
His pursuit of excellence garnered further recognition in 2007 when he was bestowed with the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Platinum Award and the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) Malaysia Achiever of the Year Award.
Additionally, he was admitted as a Chartered Fellow by CILT, UK.
That same year, he received the Outstanding American Alumnus Award in the field of logistics and transport from the American Universities Alumni Malaysia.
In 2017, Gnanalingam’s contributions to Westports were celebrated when he was awarded the Value Creator: Most Outstanding CEO by the Edge Billion Ringgit Club which recognised his visionary leadership and excellence in spearheading Westports’ transformation.
Beyond his pivotal role in Westports, Gnanalingam actively participated in various governmental and industry bodies.
He served on the National PEMUDAH committee, a special task force established by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, aimed at streamlining government processes and regulations to facilitate businesses.
Furthermore, he lent his expertise as a member of the National Export Council, contributing to the promotion and enhancement of Malaysia’s exports.
In 2020, Gnanalingam’s extensive experience and insights led to his appointment to the Economic Action Council (EAC).
As a member of this influential council, comprising representatives from both the government and private sectors, he played a vital role in formulating strategies to stimulate economic growth and ensure its sustainability.
Gnanalingam’s remarkable legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments.
His commitment to diverse business ventures was evident through his role as a non-executive director of Pembinaan Redzai Sdn Bhd, in which he held a significant indirect interest as a major shareholder.
Additionally, he served as a director of Westports Foundation, demonstrating his dedication to philanthropy and making a positive impact on society.
Carrying on his father’s legacy, Gnanalingam’s eldest son, Datuk Ruben Emir Gnanalingam, now assumes the position of group managing director of Westports Holdings.
This seamless transition reflects the enduring vision and values instilled by Datuk Gnanalingam, ensuring the continued growth and success of the company he founded.
The passing of Gnanalingam is an irreplaceable loss for Westports Holdings and the entire transportation industry.
His profound impact, unwavering dedication, and visionary leadership will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
