KYSERs Hazman and Azeem discuss power, information and surviving global turmoil

In an era defined by geopolitical tensions, market shocks and global fragmentation, two KYSERs from different generations shared a common message, information is power.

At the Affin Market Outlook Conference 2026, KYS Class of 1998 alumnus Hazman Hilmi and KYS Class of 2007 alumnus Azeem Abu Bakar took the stage to discuss how investors, institutions and businesses can navigate an increasingly volatile world.

The session came amid growing concerns over the US-Iran tensions and fears of disruptions to global oil supply routes, which have added fresh instability to financial markets.

Hazman, who is chief investment officer of KWAP, said uncertainty remains one of the greatest challenges facing investors today.

“You don’t know what you don’t know, and it’s always scary,” he said.

He explained that organisations today can no longer depend entirely on historical assumptions, stressing the importance of communication, governance and disciplined decision-making during periods of volatility.

Azeem, the managing director of FMT, shared a similar perspective, arguing that information itself has become a strategic asset in today’s world.

“In a world of endless shocks, information, intelligence and communication are no longer optional. They are becoming central to survival and decision-making,” he said.

Azeem, who is also founder of Futures Capital added that organisations able to obtain information quickly, process it effectively and communicate clearly would have a growing advantage in navigating crises and uncertainty.

“As the world becomes more fragmented and volatile, the winners may not necessarily be the biggest players, but the ones that are the most informed,” he said.

The discussion reflected the growing presence of KYS alumni across media, finance and national institutions.

While Hazman oversees investment strategy at one of Malaysia’s largest institutional funds, Azeem operates at the intersection of media, communications and strategic intelligence.

Together, the two KYSERs highlighted a growing reality facing leaders today, that information and intelligence may increasingly shape resilience in an age of global turmoil.