Founder
SHAHRIL HAMDAN brings in-depth experience having built a career with a tri-sector profile; in the public, private, and non-profit spaces. He brings with him extensive experience in public policy formulation and analysis, government and business strategy, and management consulting in industries and sectors which include oil and gas, energy and investment.
Shahril is currently the founder and Managing Director of Watchtower Advisory, a corporate advisory firm that assists investors in navigating Malaysia’s corporate landscape, as well as acting as a placement agent for overseas-based funds engaged in capital raising activities in Southeast Asia.
He formerly held the role of Economic Director in the Prime Minister’s Office and a member of the National Economic Action Council under the administration of Dato’ Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, being involved in the formulation and delivery of key economic interventions in the aftermath of the pandemic.
From 2018 to 2020, he ran IGV Partners, a venture capital advisory business which assisted investors in deploying direct investments into Malaysian startups at seed to Series A levels.
He spent 3 years as a consultant with McKinsey and Company, where he worked across Southeast Asia advising multinational clients across various industries. He later brought that experience over to running an actual business, when he was CEO of Destini Oil – a midsized oilfield services company – from 2014-2018.
Apart from the private sector, Shahril co-founded The Centre, a centrist think tank conducting research and proposals on public policy issues and was part of the management team at the education non-profit Teach for Malaysia.
He had been active in Malaysian politics until November 2022, and now intends to stay out indefinitely to focus on other life pursuits, including with Watchtower. Other commitments include his recent Visiting Fellowship at the Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore and co-hosting Keluar Sekejap – Malaysia’s most listened to podcast on current issues.
Shahril is a 2023-2026 World Economic Forum Youth Global Leader, having also been a member of the Southeast Asia Young Leaders Program cohort at the 2022 Shangri-La Dialogue by IISS.
Shahril obtained his Bachelor’s and post graduate degrees from the University of Manchester and the London School of Economics, respectively.
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Our Advisory Council are individuals who have amassed a wide berth of experience and thought leadership, providing counsel and insight
AFFILIATE ENTITIES
Where necessary, we engage Affiliate Entities and firms specializing in various practices to help deliver desired outcomes to client. These specialties include Public Affairs, Policy Advocacy, Regional Geopolitics, and Media Management
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Our Advisory Council are individuals who have amassed a wide berth of experience and thought leadership, providing counsel and insight
AFFILIATE ENTITIES
Where necessary, we engage Affiliate Entities and firms specializing in various practices to help deliver desired outcomes to client. These specialties include Public Affairs, Policy Advocacy, Regional Geopolitics, and Media Management
NATASHA KAMALUDDIN, a seasoned management consultant with a diverse background, offers strategic insights and execution expertise across various sectors. With a strong track record in leading transformative projects, she has made a notable impact on healthcare reforms and corporate initiatives. In addition to her professional endeavors, Natasha is an accomplished author and engages in academia, contributing to the field of business.
TAN SRI DATO' SERI DR. HAJI NOOR HISHAM BIN ABDULLAH, a renowned Senior Consultant Surgeon and former Director General of Health Malaysia, holds expertise in breast and endocrine surgery. Recognized globally for his contributions to healthcare, he has led significant medical committees and acted as an advocate for universal healthcare coverage. Driven by innovation, he focuses on digital technology and creative solutions to enhance personalized healthcare. As of September 2023, he is also the Chairman of UCSI Healthcare Group.
TAN SRI NAZIR RAZAK, former Chairman and Group CEO of CIMB, brings extensive leadership experience in transforming financial institutions. With notable achievements in Islamic finance and advocacy for ASEAN, he has received prestigious international recognition. Currently, as founding partner of Ikhlas Capital and Chairman of PLS Plantation, he continues to drive impactful initiatives while contributing to renowned advisory boards.
