Fernandes to helm 'The Apprentice Asia'

SINGAPORE: Aviation tycoon, Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, will host the Asian edition of the hit television series, "The Apprentice".

This was announced today by the reality show's Asia producer, RGM, a Singapore-based film and television production outfit.

"The Apprentice", created and produced by Mark Burnett Productions, has been a runaway success since its 2004 debut in the United States with multi-billionaire Donald Trump as host and co-executive producer.

The show has since been franchised internationally, including in the United Kingdom, hosted by Lord Sugar.

"We are tremendously excited to have Tony on board. Not only is he a great and charismatic businessman; he is also a personality Asians have come to associate with worldwide success," said Devesh Chetty, RGM Chief Executive Officer in when announcing the show.

One of Asia's youngest and most celebrated business leaders, Fernandes is the force behind Malaysian entertainment and leisure conglomerate, Tune Group Sdn Bhd, the parent firm of AirAsia and the Formula One team Lotus Racing.

He is expected to spice up the "ultimate job interview" with his trademark wit, daring decisions and entrepreneurial grit.

Commenting on the news, Fernandes said:"It's a thrill to be at the helm of "The Apprentice Asia". We'll see some of the most promising business talents in the region battle it out from the street to the boardroom.

"I can't wait to throw some really interesting challenges their way so they can show the world what the new generation of Asian business executives are made of," he said.

"The Apprentice Asia" will gather a group of business executives from across industries and countries in the region in an elimination-style competition to become a highly-paid apprentice to Fernandes. - Bernama