In a strategic move aimed at strengthening its position in Southeast Asia, Chinese streaming platform iQIYI has welcomed back Dinesh Ratnam as the Senior Managing Director for Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
This appointment marks a significant return for the seasoned media and tech leader, as he reclaims a pivotal role in shaping iQIYI’s future in three of the most dynamic digital entertainment markets in the region.
Ratnam, a familiar name in the regional streaming ecosystem, will be tasked with overseeing operations and accelerating subscriber growth, local content development, and strategic partnerships in these high-potential markets.
He will also focus on enhancing brand visibility and audience engagement, particularly among viewers who have increasingly embraced Chinese and other Asian entertainment genres.
A Homecoming of Strategic Importance
This is not Ratnam’s first stint with iQIYI. In fact, he was instrumental in establishing the platform’s presence across Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Brunei, having previously served as Country Manager for these nations.
He later ascended to Senior Director of International Business, helping position iQIYI as a go-to destination for premium Asian content in the region.
Ratnam’s return signals not just a leadership upgrade, but a broader vision to tap into the soaring demand for Asian content, including Chinese dramas, Korean series, anime, and local Southeast Asian productions.
“This feels like a true homecoming,” said Ratnam. “iQIYI has grown significantly over the years with a strong catalogue of Chinese dramas, Korean series, anime, and local productions. I’m excited to build on this momentum and tap into the immense creative potential of Southeast Asia.”
Proven Success Across Media and Tech
Before rejoining iQIYI, Ratnam served as Managing Director of Warner Music Group Malaysia and Singapore, leading the label through a period of commercial success.
Under his leadership, Warner Music achieved multiple chart-topping releases, increased cross-border collaborations, and received various industry accolades.
In that role, Ratnam also helped integrate music with brand campaigns, providing businesses with culturally relevant storytelling through music.
His leadership enhanced Warner Music’s position as a strategic partner for brands, and now, iQIYI is poised to benefit from the same brand-building capabilities.
Over 15 Years of Industry Expertise
Ratnam’s extensive career spans over 15 years, with senior roles at streaming and media companies like iflix and Catcha Group.
He began his career in investment banking at J.P. Morgan in both London and San Francisco, where he advised on over US$25 billion in transactions related to technology, media, and telecommunications.
This unique combination of financial acumen and entertainment industry experience gives Ratnam a distinctive edge in managing business growth, audience strategies, and content investment.
iQIYI’s Growing Momentum in Southeast Asia
Ratnam’s appointment aligns with a broader push by iQIYI to solidify its presence in Southeast Asia. The platform recently strengthened its collaboration with Telkomsel in Indonesia, while maintaining long-standing alliances with Astro, CelcomDigi, and Media Prima in Malaysia.
These partnerships are key to expanding iQIYI’s reach among mobile-first and digital-native consumers in the region, offering accessible entertainment powered by local and regional collaborations.
Southeast Asia: A Streaming Hotspot
With rapid digitalisation and high mobile penetration, Southeast Asia is emerging as one of the world’s most promising regions for streaming platforms.
Consumers are not only looking for global content but also demanding culturally resonant storytelling that reflects their languages, values, and experiences.
Ratnam’s track record of localising international platforms, combined with iQIYI’s growing content library, creates an ideal synergy for tapping into this evolving market landscape.
As Ratnam steps into his new role, his focus will likely include expanding local production capabilities, introducing more original Southeast Asian content, and enhancing user experiences across iQIYI’s apps and web platforms.
With his return, iQIYI reaffirms its commitment to bringing compelling Asian stories to Southeast Asian audiences, strengthening the cultural bridge between content creators and consumers across the region.
For media observers and industry insiders, all eyes will be on how Ratnam and his team shape the next chapter of iQIYI’s journey in Southeast Asia – a region ripe with opportunity, creativity, and a growing appetite for authentic, Asian-driven content.
Keywords:
- Dinesh Ratnam iQIYI
- iQIYI Southeast Asia expansion
- iQIYI streaming growth
- iQIYI Malaysia Indonesia Singapore
- Chinese dramas SEA market
- Asian content demand
