Axis Real Estate Investment Trust (Axis REIT) has announced the resignation of its Executive Chairman, Dato’ Abas Carl Gunnar Abdullah, citing medical reasons.
The property manager said the resignation took effect on July 6 and relates to Dato’ Abas Carl Gunnar’s role as a director of Axis REIT Manager Berhad, the management company of Axis REIT.
Dato’ Abas Carl Gunnar, 67, had served on the board since March 15, 2005, making him one of the longest-serving leaders associated with the industrial-focused real estate investment trust.
He also chaired the Executive Committee and served as a member of the Remuneration Committee.
A Norwegian permanent resident of Malaysia, Dato’ Abas Carl Gunnar began his career as managing director of Jotun Powder Coatings (M) Sdn Bhd, a position he held from 1985 to 1993.
He entered Malaysia’s property sector in 1989 through a build-and-lease development project before partnering with investors in the development of Crystal Plaza in 1992. He later played a key role in developing Axis Business Park, Axis Plaza and Menara Axis, properties that formed the core portfolio of Axis REIT when it was listed.
He served as Executive Deputy Chairman from November 2006 before being appointed Executive Chairman in May 2023.
Beyond Axis REIT, Dato’ Abas Carl Gunnar has interests in several private companies involved in property development, property investment and agarwood plantations, as well as a New York-based fund management company specialising in global equities.
