The former senator replaces Dr Ibrahim Saad.

In a statement, UKM said Wahid, who is also former Kumpulan Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB) chairman, is a versatile corporate and experienced leader who has headed four major organisations in various sectors, including telecommunications and investment management.

Wahid was appointed a senator and made a minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in June 2013 before being appointed chairman of Kumpulan PNB, the largest fund management company in Malaysia.

He is also a former president and CEO of Maybank and was once the chairman of the Association of Banks in Malaysia.

Wahid said he appreciated the honour given and was happy to accept the appointment.

“This is a golden opportunity to fulfil my dreams of contributing to education, leadership and human resource development. I will try to do my best for UKM and the country,” he said in the same statement.