Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik in a statement today said Zainal Abidin, who was appointed for a three-year term, will succeed Dr Ahmad Zaidee Laidin who held the post since July 2015.

Maszlee said Zainal Abidin, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of Maryland, United States, had vast experience as an industry advisory panel member for several public and private universities.

Zainal Abidin, 55, he added, also served as group managing director of Proton Holdings Bhd Group and deputy managing director of Perodua Auto Corporation Sdn Bhd.

“I believe that Zainal Abidin, a highly respected corporate figure, will be able to steer UiTM to become a dynamic higher learning institution as it continues to move forward, in line with current needs and challenges,” said Maszlee.

He also expressed his appreciation to Ahmad Zaidee for his invaluable contribution throughout his term.