1984-1996 St John's Institution, Kuala Lumpur; 1997-2001 ACCA Professional Certification; 2001- B.Sc. in Applied Accounting, Oxford Brookes University, UK; 2021- Certificate in Data Analytics, ACCA; 2021- Certificate in Digital Marketing Specialist, MIM; 2021- Certified Digital Transformation Professional (International Certification Program), Casugol; 2022- Certificate in Digital Innovation for Finance, ACCA; 2022- Certified Professional Business Advisor, IOA; 2024- MIA Practising Certificate; 2025- Certified Capital Market Professional in Sustainable and Responsible Investment, SIDC

Darren began his career in 2001 as a Financial Analyst at Ford Malaysia/AMI, where he developed a strong foundation in financial planning and analysis. In 2003, he joined Komoco Motors - Hyundai as a Finance Manager, overseeing financial operations, strategic planning and budgeting until 2004. In 2006, he advanced to MBM Resources Berhad (MBMR) as Group Financial Controller, a position he held until 2016. During his 10 years in MBMR, he played a pivotal role in statutory reporting and compliance, group financial reporting and management, risk management, corporate governance and, corporate and strategic planning, significantly contributing to the company’s growth, expansion and financial stability, whereby MBM Resources Berhad was inducted into The Edge Billion Ringgit Club in 2015. Building on his extensive experience, Darren took on a more strategic role in 2017 as Managing Director of Corporate Strategy at Fusionex Group, where he oversaw corporate initiatives and strategic expansion as well as forging partnerships and collaborations with various clients for business transformation and technology adoption, a role he held until 2023. His expertise in financial strategy, business development, and corporate leadership positioned him as a key team member in shaping the company’s long-term growth and direction. Alongside his executive roles, Darren also devoted his time to other companies' corporate governance initiatives, serving as an Independent Non-Executive Director at Pecca Group Berhad from 2019 to 2020. Since 2021, he has been an Independent Non-Executive Director at Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad, a subsidiary of Royal FrieslandCampina. In 2018, Darren founded FPAX Sdn Bhd, where he serves as its Chief Executive Officer and Principal Consultant. FPAX is a boutique business consultancy firm specialising in organisational transformation, business restructuring, operational optimisation, digital transformation, corporatisation and sustainability. Through its proprietary platform, SMease, the company provides tailored solutions that empower SMEs to achieve sustainable growth through strategic advisory services, digital innovation and transformation. Recognising the importance of collaboration in advancing SME development, Darren has been actively involved in associations such as the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) and Asia CEO Community, as well as professional bodies such as the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), and the Institute of Advisors (IOA). Through these partnerships, he drives key initiatives focussed on SME growth, financial literacy, and digital transformation, equipping businesses with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in an evolving economic landscape. Looking ahead, Darren remains dedicated to expanding FPAX’s impact and driving SME success. Apart from FPAX, Darren also co-founded the Institute of Business Advisors Malaysia (IBAM) specialising in providing training and education for industry practitioners in the area of business advisory and consultancy utilising the IOA and CPBA methodologies. As an ACCA and CPA-qualified professional, he is committed to integrating digital transformation into accounting and financial practices, leveraging data-driven insights, innovative strategies, and corporate governance best practices to help SMEs achieve long-term, sustainable growth in a competitive business environment

Darren was interviewed by ACCA UK and Oxford Brookes University, where he shared his journey and views on driving digital transformation in accountancy. He was also invited by Universiti Malaya to inspire students and discuss the evolving role of accountants in the digital age. As a speaker at MDEC, he explored the growing e-commerce landscape, highlighting digital strategies that fuel business growth. He has also delivered talks at MIA and ACCA, offering thought leadership on the profession’s shift towards automation, data-driven decisions, and emerging technologies. At SSM, Darren spoke on board transparency and corporate governance, advocating for ethical leadership, compliance, and accountability in today’s corporate environment

On the Membership Committee of Malaysian Institute of Management (MIM); Member of Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA); Fellow Member of Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA); Member of Certified Practising Accountants (CPA, Australia); Member of Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (ICDM); Global Associate Member of Singapore Institute of Directors (SID); Member of Institute of Advisors (IOA, Australia); Associate Member of Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE); Member of Global Technology Forum of ACCA UK

English, Malay, Cantonese

Darren is a passionate marathon runner who enjoys pushing his limits. In his free time, he is drawn to investigative films and legal dramas for their depth and strategic storytelling

Darren began his career as an accountant, but his passion for technology and business transformation led him into leadership roles focussed on driving digital adoption and growth for SMEs. He is dedicated to helping businesses navigate digital change, optimise operations, and improve financial sustainability. Beyond his corporate work, Darren mentors professionals through the Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (ICDM) and guides students via FutureLab, supporting the development of future leaders. He is also deeply involved in ESG and sustainability. As an Independent Non-Executive Director at Dutch Lady Milk Industries Berhad, he contributes to the ESG and Sustainability Steering Committee. Additionally, he collaborates with INCEIF University on integrating sustainable finance and governance strategies. With a forward-thinking mindset, Darren continues to champion innovation, leadership and sustainability for a stronger business ecosystem

For Darren, success is not merely measured by financial gain, but by his ability to inspire and uplift those around him. He believes that true success lies in mentoring, empowering others, and seeing them grow beyond their own limitations—even surpassing him in their achievements. His guiding philosophy is rooted in continuous learning, adaptability and the pursuit of innovation. To the younger generation, his message is simple yet profound: “Keep innovating.” He encourages them to embrace change, challenge the status quo, and harness technology and creativity to shape a better future.

www.smease.app

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.