General Malek Razak’s appointment as Chief of Armed Force is seen as a chance for a comprehensive institutional reset of the MAF.
KUALA LUMPUR: The appointment of General Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman as the 24th Chief of Armed Forces presents a strategic opportunity for a comprehensive institutional reset.
The Malaysian Armed Forces Headquarters said the reset should cover work culture, management systems, and leadership practices.
It stated the new appointment carries a mandate to set a clear direction based on transparency, discipline, and adherence to military core values.
“As the CAF, the leadership shown functions not only through the command structure but is also rooted in moral authority capable of uniting all members of the MAF,” the headquarters said.
An approach of leadership by example, firmness against misconduct, and support for checks and balances are seen as vital foundations.
The statement was issued in conjunction with the Rank Insignia and Handover Ceremony at Wisma Pertahanan.
The ceremony was officiated by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
It was attended by Deputy Minister Adly Zahari and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The MAF Headquarters stated the appointment is significant as the institution faces major challenges in reinforcing public confidence.
It must also work to preserve organisational credibility in an increasingly complex security landscape.
“The top leadership of the MAF is not only required to be competent from an operational standpoint but also to serve as a driver of military values and professional principles,” the statement added.
Mohamed Khaled announced the appointment of Malek Razak in a statement on January 31.
The appointment as the new CAF was effective from February 1.
The minister said His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, had consented to Malek Razak’s promotion to General.
Malek Razak, 60, began his career as an Overseas Cadet Officer at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst in 1985.
He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on December 11, 1987.
Throughout nearly 40 years of service, he has held various key positions including Platoon Commander in the 21st Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment.
