Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain is now the chief of the Malaysian Armed Forces, succeeding General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaafar who has retired.
KUALA LUMPUR: Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain has assumed the duties of chief of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) with immediate effect.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced the appointment following the mandatory retirement of 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.
Mohd Nizam was appointed as the 23rd Chief of the MAF on Jan 31.
His appointment made him the first senior officer from outside the existing service chiefs to hold the highest position.
An army officer, Mohd Nizam was promoted to Lieutenant General on Feb 23 last year.
He has held important positions including Commandant of the National Defence College and Commander of the 2nd Malaysian Army Infantry Brigade.