Prior to the appointment, Alias, 58, was Secretary of the National Security Council, Prime Minister’s Department, and had served in the civil service for more than 32 years.

Ali said Alias, through his work in the civil service, had wide experience in planning, research and policy, human resource management as well as security areas.

“I believe that the experience, knowledge and credibility he has will enable him to carry out his responsibilities effectively and he is capable of continuing the ministry’s mission in sustaining a quality education system to build an individual’s potential to meet national aspirations,” he said.

Alias previously served as the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism; Director-General of Immigration and Secretary of the Human Resource Management Division, Home Ministry.

In the statement, Ali, on behalf of the government, expressed his appreciation to Madinah for her contributions and service to the civil service and nation for more than 35 years.