Abdul Rahim, 75, replaced Ahmad Zamzamin Hashim, who was appointed by the previous Barisan Nasional government, to facilitate the peace talks between the Thai government and Mara Patani, an umbrella body representing militant groups in southern Thailand.

Abdul Rahim served as Malaysia’s fifth IGP from 1994 to 1999. He told Bernama he was surprised at the appointment but honoured and prepared to use his experience to ensure the talks were a success.

“Yes, I have received the appointment letter. I will go to Bukit Aman later to sort out the relevant matters,” he said without disclosing the date of appointment.

He added however that his new task would be challenging as it involved prolonged issues and disputes which had yet to reach any concrete consensus.

He said he would rely on his experience as the Bukit Aman Special Branch director to facilitate the talks.

“I think my vast experience and knowledge of issues at the border can be well put to use in performing my new task.”

He said he would also need the cooperation and commitment of all parties involved to ensure the success of the talks.

Kuala Lumpur has been hosting several rounds of peace talks between representatives from the Thai government and Mara Patani to seek a peaceful resolution to years of armed conflict in southern Thailand.

About 7,000 people have died as a result of such conflict since 2004.