KENANGA ANNUAL REPORT 2018

11 ANNUAL REPORT 2018 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE Amidst headwinds, it was encouraging to note that Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad and its Group of Companies (“ Kenanga Group ” or “ the Group ”) stayed focus and maintained its momentum in delivering many achievements throughout the year. Through the continuous emphasis on collaboration and innovation, we saw the strategic partnership with the largest securities firm in Taiwan, Yuanta Securities Investment Trust Co., Ltd. to develop innovative exchange-traded fund products for Malaysia. The other highlights which unfolded during the year included the introduction of new features on our mobile application, Invesk; the growing success of our joint venture, Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd and many internal process improvements through automation. I am also pleased to note that the Company has mobilised a three (3)-year blueprint to drive integrity and business ethics throughout the Group and continues to focus on talent development; employee engagement; community support and environmental conservation. With this well-balanced growth agenda, Kenanga Group does not only have in place the right building blocks to stay ahead of the curve, but more importantly, to ensure longer-term growth into the future. Malaysia is expected to face another volatile year, as it continues to be challenged by ongoing domestic adjustments and various global geopolitical woes. While we are cautious of this, we are reminded to draw on the same resilience, flexibility and entrepreneurial spirit which has guided us over the last four (4) decades as we grew from a modest stockbroking company into one (1) of the leading independent investment banks in the country today. I believe that the breadth of experience we possess and the strong foundation we have built, will hold us in good stead as we ride out the storm. BOARD COMPOSITION I am pleased to share that the Board of Directors (“ Board ”) of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad comprises more than 50% of independent directors. This is in keeping with Bank Negara Malaysia’s Policy Document on Corporate Governance, and the Securities Commission Malaysia’s Malaysian Code on Corporate Governance. The diverse backgrounds and mix of skills of the Board members will ensure we continue to successfully deal with the challenges faced by the business in the ever-evolving environment in which we operate. APPRECIATION As always, my heartfelt gratitude goes to the Group’s Founder and Adviser, YM Tan Sri Dato’ Paduka Tengku Noor Zakiah Tengku Ismail, for her continued guidance and for sharing her knowledge and experience. YM Tan Sri Dato’ Paduka Tengku Noor Zakiah is an inspiration to all – women leaders especially, having herself become the first (1 st ) female member of the then, Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange when she acquired the country’s oldest stockbroking firm, Hallam & Co, in 1964 and then in 1973, co-founded K & N Kenanga Sdn Bhd, which is now Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad. I would like to express my appreciation to the members of the Board for their unwavering support over the past year. I am also deeply grateful to all of our valued customers, business partners, suppliers and shareholders for their continuous confidence in Kenanga Group. Every corporation’s greatest asset is its people and the Group would not be where it is today without their commitment, passion and professionalism – qualities that have propelled us to greater heights of achievements. Finally, on behalf of the Group, our gratitude goes to Bank Negara Malaysia, Securities Commission Malaysia and Bursa Malaysia Berhad, for their assistance and guidance. Izlan Izhab Chairman