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Malaysian bestowed prestigious global advertising honour in Bucharest

KUALA LUMPUR: Advertising practitioner Tony Savarimuthu was recently awarded the International Advertising Association’s (IAA) ‘2017 Inspire Global Champion Award’ during its Global Conference held in Bucharest, Romania last month.

The award was in recognition of Savarimuthu, who is also Dentsu Merdeka LHS chief executive officer, for his notable contribution and commitment to advancing communications in the global marketing and advertising industry.

Winners were selected based on various criteria, including career experience, industry contribution, and, involvement in and advancement of the IAA across local and global markets, among other specific category criteria.

Savarimuthu, throughout his 25-year career span, led award-winning agencies and served in leadership positions at McCann Worldgroup, Leo Burnett and the Malaysian 4As.

He also chaired the first Malaysia’s Most Valuable Brands project and introduced many initiatives for the betterment of the country’s advertising industry, including The Malaysian Effies.

IAA Global chairman and world president Felix Tataru said: “Savarimuthu has contributed his professional expertise and inspired the marketing communications community locally, regionally and globally.

“Therefore, IAA, with its global footprint in over 70 countries, is proud to recognise his accomplishments, commitment and service,” he said during IAA’s Regional ExCo Meeting held in Bali on Nov 7.

He also said that the IAA Inspire Awards was initiated to pay tribute to the spirit of leadership, vision, commitment and service in advancing the IAA globally, as well as to make a difference in the worldwide arena of marketing communications.

Meanwhile, IAA Malaysia president John Chacko said: “The decision to bestow Savarimuthu, who is a member, advisor and friend of the IAA, with the award was unanimous.

“Over the years, he has exemplified thought leadership, creative leadership and organisational leadership in the industry.

“It’s gratifying to have a Malaysian ad luminary recognised at a global level with this award,” said Chacko, who is also IAA Global (Asia Development) vice president.

The Association of Advertising Agents Malaysia (4As) honorary life president Tan Sri Vincent Lee remarked on the achievement of Savarimuthu.

“It’s a well-deserved award and most befitting. The Malaysian advertising industry is proud to have him leading us for so many years.

“He has done us proud, yet again.”

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