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Friday 23 Oct 2026 · Kuala Lumpur

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Zainal Abidin Ahmad

President and Chief Executive Officer, Perodua

Last reviewed 12 September 2026

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AI-assisted source summary. Prepared from the linked public records; not independently reviewed by a human editor. How we use AI.

Perodua showroom in Penang, 16 February 2019. Archival company-context photograph; not a portrait of Zainal Abidin Ahmad. Photo by Bindydad123. Source · CC BY-SA 4.0. Resized; display crops may vary. The photograph retains its stated licence.

Professional overview

Zainal Abidin Ahmad is president and chief executive officer of Perodua, a role he took on in January 2019 after serving as vice-president of Perodua Auto Corporation. He joined Perodua's cost-control department in 1995 and helped develop the company's manufacturing cost structure. His professional work has included contributing to Malaysia's National Automotive Policy and establishing the Sendayan powertrain hub, which combines engine and transmission manufacturing. He holds a degree in management information systems and accounting from Pacific Lutheran University. His leadership now spans Perodua's established vehicle business and its development of electric mobility. In June 2026, the company presented its C2 electric-vehicle concept at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show. The prototype explores a new design direction and driving-assistance features, extending the company's work on future vehicles designed by its Malaysian team.

Current public business roles

  • Since January 2019
    President and Chief Executive Officer, Perodua

Career & business timeline

  • 1995
    Joined Perodua in its cost-control department.
  • 2019
    Became president and chief executive officer on 1 January.
  • 2026
    Led Perodua as it presented the C2 electric-vehicle concept at KLIMS.

Latest coverage

No published coverage linked to this person yet.

Official sources & further reading

  1. Perodua — Perodua appoints new chief as Aminar completes his term (primary)Published 2018-12-13 · accessed 2026-09-12Supports: CEO appointment effective 1 January 2019, previous vice-presidency, 1995 entry into cost control, manufacturing-cost work, National Automotive Policy contribution, Sendayan powertrain hub and professional education.
  2. Perodua — C2: Perodua's next chapter in its EV journey (primary)Published 2026-06-11 · accessed 2026-09-12Supports: Fresh confirmation of current president and CEO role in 2026; C2 concept presented at KLIMS 2026, Malaysian design team and prototype driving-assistance features.

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