Zulhelmy Ithnain Assumes Duties As MAF Chief With Immediate Effect - Mohamed Khaled

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 27 (Bernama) -- Navy chief Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain will assume the duties of chief of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) with immediate effect.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the appointment followed the mandatory retirement of MAF chief General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaafar.

"The Ministry of Defence expresses its highest appreciation for the service, leadership, and contributions of General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar throughout his tenure as Armed Forces chief, and wishes him a smooth retirement," he said.

Zulhelmy was appointed as the Navy chief on Sept 23, replacing Admiral Tan Sri Abdul Rahman Ayob, who retired.

On Jan 31, Mohd Nizam, 59, was appointed as the 23rd Chief of the MAF, making him the first senior officer outside the existing service chiefs to hold the highest position.

Meanwhile, Mohd Nizam, an army officer, was promoted to Lieutenant General on Feb 23 last year and has held important positions, including Commandant of the National Defence College, Malaysian Army Training and Doctrine Command training management director, and Commander of the 2nd Malaysian Army Infantry Brigade 

-- BERNAMA