Anuar Fariz Fadzil assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) effective 3 October 2024. He is a seasoned leader with deep expertise in corporate strategy, digital transformation, and business development. Over the years, Anuar Fariz has demonstrated a remarkable leadership track record, driving strategic initiatives across various sectors and fostering strong public-private partnerships. His steadfast dedication to advancing Malaysia’s digital economy is evidenced by his innovative strategies that bolster operational efficiency and promote sustainable business growth.

Prior to his role in MDEC, Anuar Fariz served as Country Lead and Head of Public Policy at ByteDance Malaysia, where he was instrumental in leading public policy strategies and facilitating data centre investments in Malaysia, empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through TikTok Shop, and spearheaded the development of cybersafety policies for social media platforms, ensuring safer online environments and enhanced digital security. He also brings a wealth of experience in strategic investments, particularly in managing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for data centres and driving AI development initiatives.

Earlier in his career, Anuar Fariz held the role of Advisor to the Chief Executive Officer at Celcom Axiata Berhad in 2019, where he was responsible for shaping government business strategies, with a particular focus on GovTech 5G and advancing MSME digitalisation through public-private partnerships. As Head of Regional Government Business at Axiata Group Berhad, he led teams across Malaysia and the region, advancing key partnerships and overseeing crisis management and advocacy efforts across South Asia.

Between 2013 and 2017, Anuar Fariz served as Aide of the Minister of International Trade and Industry, where he played a crucial role in formulating macroeconomic reforms, managing FDI strategies, and driving industrial development. His efforts contributed to the creation of a friendly investment environment by enhancing regulatory frameworks for FDI. Earlier in his career, he served as Head of Business Development at Yayasan AMIR, an organisation established by Khazanah Nasional Berhad to reform public education in Malaysia. In 2007, he also managed strategic business initiatives at Think CITY in Georgetown, Penang, where he oversaw grant management to promote urban sustainability and well-being.

Anuar Fariz holds a Master of International Public Policy from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS).