Ammar appointed as Oldtown’s new halal committee chairman

KUALA LUMPUR: Oldtown White Coffee (Oldtown) yesterday announced the appointment of Datuk Ammar Shaikh Mahmood Naim as the company’s Halal Committee chairman, effective Feb 1, 2024.

Ammar succeeds Datuk Dr Ahmad Tasir Lope Pihie who served in the position from January 2013 to January 2024.

Oldtown in a statement said that Ammar’s extensive experience in state administration, audit, and governance is poised to lead Oldtown in its commitment to innovative product and brand strategies, as well as adherence to halal integrity, enhancing its position as a premier halal brand.

“Oldtown’s recognition in the Franchise Excellence category at the 2023 World Halal Excellence Awards solidified its commitment and consistent growth, strategic planning, and dedication to produce high-quality halal products.

“The company's innovative product formulation, strategic distribution network, and effective marketing plans have catered to the market's demand for exceptional halal products,” the statement read.

Ammar, who hails from Alor Setar is a distinguished graduate of California State University Fresno and the University of San Francisco, had started his career as a state administrator in September 1987 before holding various positions in the Kedah state government.

He was appointed as the chief secretary to the Kedah state government in December 2018, where he was instrumental in steering Kedah’s overall strategic direction, until his retirement in August 2022.

“Ammar holds many prominent positions and actively participates in various committees and boards. Currently, he is a member of the board of trustees for the Datai Pledge and patron of the Thobrani Dakwah Centre,” the statement added.