Mokhzani bin Tun Dr. Mahathir is not just a name synonymous with business excellence but a symbol of resilience, foresight, and leadership. Born on January 2, 1961, Mokhzani has carved a legacy in Malaysia’s oil and gas industry that has impacted both local and international markets. As the second eldest son of Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia’s longest-serving Prime Minister, Mokhzani’s achievements demonstrate his determination to create his own path.
The Early Years of Mahathir: Foundations of Success
Mokhzani Mahathir began his journey by pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Tulsa, USA. Equipped with technical expertise and a strong work ethic, he entered the energy sector with a vision to innovate and expand.
His career commenced as a petroleum engineer, a role that honed his understanding of the oil and gas industry. However, Mokhzani’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Kencana Petroleum, an oil-equipment fabrication company that would later become a cornerstone of Malaysia’s energy landscape.
Building an Empire: From Kencana to Sapura Energy
Under Mokhzani’s leadership, Kencana Petroleum quickly gained a reputation for excellence and innovation. This success caught the attention of SapuraCrest Petroleum, leading to a historic merger that formed SapuraKencana Petroleum. This new entity, now known as Sapura Energy, has since grown into one of the world’s leading oil and gas service providers.
Mokhzani Mahathir’s strategic vision was instrumental in driving this growth. By combining Kencana’s fabrication expertise with SapuraCrest’s offshore capabilities, he created a company that could compete on the global stage.
In 2017, Mokhzani Mahathir took a step back from his majority shareholder role, relinquishing 384 million shares in Sapura Energy. His decision reflected a desire to focus on other ventures while ensuring the company’s legacy continued to thrive.
Political Journey: Balancing Business and Service
Like his father, Mokhzani was deeply involved in politics, particularly with the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). He served as the treasurer of UMNO’s Youth Wing and was an active delegate representing Kedah.
However, Mokhzani’s political journey took a backseat as he prioritized his business ambitions. In May 2008, he followed his father in leaving UMNO, signaling the end of his political career and a focus on economic contributions to Malaysia.
A Wealth of Accomplishments
In addition to his business success, Mokhzani Mahathir has earned recognition as one of Malaysia’s wealthiest individuals. Forbes Asia listed him as the 14th richest Malaysian in 2012, with an estimated net worth of US$685 million.
Beyond wealth, Mokhzani’s influence extends to the world of sports and culture. As the chairman of the Sepang International Circuit, he played a pivotal role in promoting Malaysia as a global hub for motorsport. His leadership ensured the success of events like the Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix, further boosting the nation’s reputation on the international stage.
Personal Life: A Pillar of Family and Community
Mokhzani’s success is complemented by a strong family foundation. Married to Mastisa Mohamed, a businesswoman, he is a proud father of five children. The family resides in Kuala Lumpur, where Mokhzani continues to contribute to Malaysia’s growth while maintaining a private and grounded personal life.
Honors and Awards: A Legacy of Excellence
Mokhzani Mahathir’s contributions to Malaysia have earned him numerous accolades. In 2014, he was conferred the title of Tan Sri after being awarded the Commander of the Order of Loyalty to the Crown of Malaysia (PSM). Earlier, in 2001, he received the title of Dato’ through the Knight Companion of the Order of Loyalty to the Royal House of Kedah (DSDK). These honors reflect not only his business achievements but also his service to the nation.
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