Norma Noordin ~ Origins
Father
Noordin Baharuddin: The Pioneer Behind Maxis and Malaysia’s ICT Growth
The late Noordin Baharuddin, an electronic engineer, played a key role in shaping Malaysia’s ICT sector. Born in Ipoh, Perak and spent much of his schooling and adult life in Kuala Lumpur. An alumna of Methodist Boys’ School Kuala Lumpur.
Starting in 1982, he gained expertise at global tech firms like Sperry Univac and HP before joining Usaha Tegas Sdn Bhd, where he led high-profile projects, including a secure lottery network.
In 1993, Noordin founded Binariang Sdn Bhd (later Maxis), becoming its first CEO and driving its early success. His boldest move was launching Malaysia’s first communications satellites, MEASAT, in 1996—propelling the nation into the space age. He remained on Maxis’ board until 1999.
Earlier, as Managing Director of Communications and Satellite Services (CSS), he delivered satellite horse racing broadcasts. In 2006, he launched Wifive Sdn Bhd, focusing on wireless tech and even supporting Syrian telecom projects before the war.
Noordin’s legacy lies in transforming Malaysia’s connectivity, from gaming networks to satellites, with Maxis as his crowning achievement. A true tech trailblazer, he laid the groundwork for the nation’s digital future.
Mother
Alice Lim Mee Foong: Trailblazer, Globetrotter, and Beloved Matriarch
Born in Ipoh, Perak and raised in Kuala Lumpur, Alice Lim Mee Foong is a woman of adventure, resilience, and warmth. An alumna of St. Mary’s Senior Girls’ School, Kuala Lumpur, she carried its values of discipline and compassion throughout her remarkable career.
A true pioneer, Alice was among the first staff of Ken Air, marking the beginning of her lifelong passion for travel. Her love for exploration led her to become a tour guide for over a decade, where she shared her deep knowledge of cultures and destinations with eager travelers.
In the corporate world, Alice made her mark by popularizing the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) during her tenure with MSL Travel, opening doors for young explorers. Her expertise later took her to Destinations of the World (Dubai), where she continued to shape global travel experiences.
Beyond her professional achievements, Alice is a devoted mother, a fantastic cook, and a storyteller at heart—always ready with a tale from her journeys or a comforting word of wisdom. Her legacy is one of curiosity, independence, and boundless love, inspiring everyone around her to see the world with open eyes and an open heart.
Lineage of Freedom Fighters and of Leaders
Mohd Yusof (highligthed purple) was father to Baharuddin (paternal grandfather). The Baharuddin bloodline traced back to the Penghulu Bota I, the Head of Village known as Tok Imam Raja Mahkota.
The gentlemen in uniform standing next to DYMM Paduka Seri Sultan Yussuf Izzudin (Sultan of Perak at the time) was the second aide-de-camp, Major Baharuddin bin Mohd Yusof A.M.N. The set of medals which adorned his uniform were the first batch of medals conferred to him on 31st August 1957, the day Malaya gained independence from Britain.