By Lavania Subramaniam
PETALING JAYA- Long before Kuala Lumpur rose into a skyline of steel and glass, a young 14-year-old boy once imagined a city filled with towers that touched the sky. That boy was Tan Sri T. Ananda Krishnan, and decades later, his vision would stand tall in the form of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers.
This defining moment from Ananda’s youth is among the many stories captured in Inspiring Billionaire, a newly released biography by bestselling author and adjunct professor M. Krishnamoorthy, offering readers an intimate portrait of the late Malaysian tycoon’s life, philosophy and legacy.
Krishnamoorthy, in his ninth book, recounts how a 14-year-old Ananda once sat cross-legged in his parents’ home in the early 1950s, speaking with unusual conviction about the future of Kuala Lumpur.
“With youthful conviction, he painted a picture of the future that seemed almost impossible. He declared that Kuala Lumpur would become a great city filled with towering buildings that touch the sky,” Krishnamoorthy wrote.
The young dreamer’s words drew amused smiles from his parents, who responded warmly: “May your dreams come true.”
Today, those dreams have become part of Malaysia’s national identity. The Petronas Twin Towers stand not only as architectural landmarks, but as a lasting testament to Ananda’s foresight and belief in the nation’s potential.
The 300-page biography was officially launched on Sunday at Arthas Kitchen Restaurant in Petaling Jaya by Tan Sri Renah Doraisingam. More than 100 guests attended the event, with approximately 200 copies sold during the launch.
Describing the book as a tribute to a visionary whose influence reached far beyond business, Datuk Doraisingam said Ananda’s legacy lies in both his achievements and his humanity.
“The book unveils the extraordinary life of T. Ananda Krishnan, a man whose legacy transcended wealth to touch the hearts of millions. His unwavering commitment to uplifting others transformed lives and communities,” he said during the launch.
Ananda’s ventures across industries from oil and telecommunications to satellites, media, entertainment and education, helped shape Malaysia’s economic landscape and positioned the country on the global stage. Yet, those closest to him often emphasised that his greatest contributions extended beyond corporate success.
Krishnamoorthy highlighted Ananda’s deep commitment to philanthropy, noting that he established several foundations dedicated to scholarships and assistance for the underprivileged.
“Ananda’s true greatness lies in giving, sharing joy and creating opportunities for others. This book is more than a biography, it is an inspiring call to embrace the spirit of philanthropy and make our mark on the world,” he said.
Former Bernama chairman and editor-in-chief Datuk Azman Ujang, who contributed three articles to the book, described Inspiring Billionaire as a rare glimpse into the private world of a public figure known for his humility. Having interviewed Ananda frequently during the planning and construction of the Petronas Twin Towers, Datuk Azman recalled a visionary grounded in quiet determination.
“This unique and awesome book on Ananda Krishnan reveals uncharted facets of his inspirational life. Ananda is a visionary who will inspire your imagination. His story is one of towering ambition, grounded in humanity and humility,” he said.
Beyond chronicling Ananda’s journey, the book also reflects his philosophy on business and long-term vision. Known for investing in industries ahead of their time, Ananda often spoke about the importance of looking beyond immediate gains.
“To make money, you have to find tomorrow’s business and make tomorrow’s money. Today’s businesses have small margins. Tomorrow’s businesses require patience- but the margins are big,” he once said.
Inspiring Billionaire will be available soon in bookstores and online, according to Krishnamoorthy. Books can also be ordered through SMS to +6012 6524327.
Tan Sri Ananda Krishnan passed away on Nov 28, 2024, in Switzerland, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape Malaysia’s skyline, industries and future generations- a reminder that even the most impossible dreams can one day become reality.
Lavania Subramaniam, a UNIMAS graduate (Class of 2025), is an emerging Malaysian writer with a heart for storytelling and social connection. Passionate about people, places, and the pulse of everyday life, she writes to bridge communities and celebrate Malaysia’s vibrant unity in diversity.
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