By: Elowen Gray
Anantharaj Appanan is a respected entrepreneur whose contributions to the Malaysian financial sector have been notable. With a strong foundation in legal and financial frameworks, he has played a significant role in shaping the tech industry through his leadership at Xanderia Berhad. His journey reflects a commitment to innovation, ethical finance, and financial inclusivity, positioning him as an influential figure in Malaysia’s evolving digital economy.
Born on January 1, 1970, Anantharaj Appanan pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB Hons) in London, equipping him with an in-depth understanding of business regulations and governance. Recognizing the importance of financial knowledge, he later obtained a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from Australia. This academic combination has helped him navigate the intersection of legal and financial complexities, contributing to his leadership in the financial market.
Anantharaj’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1997 with the establishment of Infohibur Komunikasi Sdn Bhd, a telecommunications company specializing in entertainment-based premium telephony services. This venture quickly gained momentum, establishing his reputation as a strategic business leader. In 2001, he further expanded his expertise by acquiring Biz Suria Management, a business process outsourcing (BPO) and contact center firm, demonstrating his adaptability in diversifying business portfolios.
One of his recognized achievements came in 2019 when he co-founded Xanderia Berhad, a company dedicated to advancing Islamic digital financial services. Under his leadership, Xanderia Berhad has expanded to a team of 200 and introduced a range of Shariah-compliant financial products, including Kanz Prihatin, Payday Now, and Xanderia Umrah. These services cater to diverse Islamic financial needs, aiming to align ethical banking practices with modern technological advancements.
Since 2021, God’s Kitchen, a CSR initiative led by Anantharaj through Xanderia Berhad, has distributed over 300,000 food packs to the underprivileged across Malaysia, Jakarta, Chennai (India), and Lahore (Pakistan). Rooted in the spirit of compassion and service, this initiative seeks to spread love and kindness by ensuring that the homeless and destitute receive nutritious meals.
Every Sunday or designated weekday, volunteers come together in prayer and dedication, distributing over 200 packed meals to uplift those in need. The mission follows the ethos of “Love All, Serve All,” crossing boundaries and inviting like-minded individuals worldwide to join in this humanitarian effort.
Xanderia Berhad’s efforts under Anantharaj’s guidance have garnered recognition. In 2024, the company received the Small and Medium Enterprises Business Award (SEBA) for its innovative contributions in emerging tech. Furthermore, a strategic collaboration with CUEPACS has helped extend financial literacy and accessibility to underprivileged communities. Initiatives such as the Kanz Prihatin roadshows in Johor and Kuching highlight Xanderia Berhad’s commitment to financial inclusion.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Anantharaj Appanan is also known for his advocacy in ethical finance and social impact. His work has focused on bridging financial gaps while maintaining integrity and transparency. He maintains that technology can be a force for good in financial services, supporting accessibility, affordability, and ethical governance in fintech solutions.
Under his leadership, Xanderia Berhad has integrated cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, and secure digital payment solutions, into its services. By leveraging these advancements, the company has worked to improve financial transactions, making them more secure, efficient, and inclusive. This has helped build trust among Malaysians and served as a reference for other companies in the sector. The emphasis on security and compliance aims to ensure that Xanderia Berhad’s services remain trustworthy while upholding Islamic financial principles.
Anantharaj has also been involved in shaping regulatory discussions around fintech in Malaysia. He frequently engages with policymakers, industry leaders, and various stakeholders to advocate for a balanced regulatory environment that encourages innovation while maintaining financial security. His insights and experiences have made him a valued voice in fintech, contributing to industry discussions at conferences and business forums.
Anantharaj’s leadership has also guided Xanderia Berhad’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The company actively participates in financial literacy programs, striving to ensure that Malaysians, particularly those living below the poverty line, have access to knowledge and resources that can potentially improve their financial well-being.
Looking ahead, Anantharaj Appanan continues to explore new opportunities in Islamic fintech, working to maintain Xanderia Berhad’s position as a significant player in Malaysia’s digital finance sector. His ability to identify market trends, innovate responsibly, and uphold ethical financial principles reinforces his standing as an industry leader.
Published by Jeremy S.
