KUALA LUMPUR: AFA Group founder and chairman Tan Sri Azmil Khalili Khalid recently completed the acquisition and rebranding of Anih Bhd and is now focusing on a massive expansion of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway.
Azmil took full control of Anih in 2024, after a six-year family feud. Prior to this, he had held a 49 per cent stake in the company. However, the total acquisition price has not been publicly disclosed
Anih, now known as AFA Prime Bhd, will expand the highway from Gombak toll plaza to Bentong toll plaza with a RM2.1 billion allocation, raising its capacity by 25 per cent.
Besides the KL-Karak Expressway, the Anih acquisition also allows AFA Group's to own and manage the East Coast Expressway 1 (LPT1).
These assets complete AFA Group's organisational structure, which also includes AFA Construction & Engineering Sdn Bhd and AFA System & Services Sdn Bhd.
Established in 2023, AFA Infrastructure and Development Sdn Bhd serves as the holding company of AFA Group, with a vision driven by Azmil's 24 years of leadership at infrastructure conglomerate MTD Capital Bhd.
Azmil is poised to leverage his extensive experience to steer AFA Prime towards sustainable growth and innovation.
"AFA Prime's integration completes our infrastructure capabilities, allowing us to strengthen Malaysia's connectivity while pursuing regional growth in Southeast Asia and the Middle East," said Azmil in a recent interview with Business Times.
While AFA Prime represents a fresh start, it is backed by a legacy of infrastructure excellence and leadership cultivated over decades.
Azmil, 64, said the company's immediate focus is on expanding the KL-Karak Expressway.
The project, which is set to begin in January 2025, will involve the addition of two lanes, a third tunnel to Bentong and enhanced safety features.
The four-year project is expected to accommodate 1,400 additional vehicles per hour in each direction, which translates to a 25 per cent increase in capacity.
This aims to alleviate congestion, reduce travel times and deliver a smoother driving experience by 2029.
As road users may face temporary inconveniences during the construction, Azmil assures that these short-term challenges will lead to long-term benefits.
"We understand the disruption construction can bring, but these are short-term sacrifices for long-term gains. By 2029, we promise smoother, safer and more efficient travel to the East Coast.
"This expansion is not just about improving infrastructure but also a commitment to connectivity, economic growth and sustainability for Malaysia and beyond," he added.
As part of AFA Group's sustainability effort, Azmil said the project will incorporate solar panel installation at rest areas, the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations along the route and eco-friendly construction materials to minimise environmental impact.
"When expanding highways, it is crucial that we consider not only the technical aspects of the construction but also its impact on the environment and communities. Our goal is to carry out this project responsibly, protecting ecosystems and promoting long-term sustainability," he said.
Concurrently, Azmil said a RM200 million flood mitigation project for the LPT1 will address flood-prone areas, ensuring safer travel during monsoon seasons by raising the highway's profile at vulnerable locations.
Targeting an annual revenue growth of two to three per cent, AFA Group is focusing on strengthening Malaysia's infrastructure, creating job opportunities and stimulating regional economies to accelerate national development goals.
Recognising the opportunities beyond national borders, Azmil aims to position the company on the global stage especially in Indonesia, the Philippines and Middle East.
During his tenure at MTD Capital, he oversaw major international projects such as the improvement of Jamarat Bridge and the surrounding area in Mina, Saudi Arabia, as well as the construction of the South Luzon Expressway in the Philippines.
"In my previous role at MTD Capital, I was involved in numerous international projects, and I intend to leverage the connections I've built to expand our footprint.
"The same experienced team that delivered successful projects in Saudi Arabia and the Philippines is now with AFA Prime, ready to carry out equally successful ventures internationally," he added.