Shafiq, 58, who was the health ministry secretary-general, succeeds Khairul Adib Abd Rahman, who went on mandatory retirement on Jan 16.

In a statement, Zuki said the Yang di-Pertuan Agong had consented to Shafiq’s appointment as JPA director-general.

“The appointment is based on his extensive experience in various fields, including policy development, management and services,” he said.

Shafiq, who has served in the civil service for 30 years, began his career as assistant secretary in the protocol division of the Prime Minister’s Department on Dec 1, 1992.

He holds a Bachelor of Political Science (Hons) degree from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and a Master’s in Public Administration from Meiji University, Japan.

“I am confident that with his knowledge and credibility, he will be able to shoulder the trust and responsibility in supporting and ensuring public sector reforms are in line with the government’s aspirations,” said Zuki.