KUALA LUMPUR, May 9 — Prominent businessman and former Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI) president Tan Sri Kenneth Eswaran died early this morning at the age of 65.

MAICCI president Datuk Seri N. Gobalakrishnan confirmed that Eswaran, who had been in poor health in recent years following a stroke, passed away at Pantai Hospital Bangsar at about 7 am today.

“He was admitted to the hospital three or four days ago after feeling unwell. He had suffered a stroke about five or six years ago,” he told Bernama when contacted today.

Gobalakrishnan said final respects will be held on Monday from 9 am to 11 am at Eswaran’s residence in Country Heights, Kajang.

He described Eswaran as one of the most prominent entrepreneurs in the Malaysian Indian community, serving as MAICCI president from 2000 to 2004 before returning to lead the organisation for another 10 years beginning in 2008.

“During his leadership, he played an important role in strengthening ties between the Indian business community and the government through various engagement sessions with ministries and relevant agencies to facilitate business matters and address issues affecting the community.

“In the corporate world and among business associations, he was also well known for championing the interests of the Indian community, particularly in economic development and business opportunities,” he said. — Bernama