Zuki said the appointment of Wan Ahmad, 58, was made with the consent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.

Before this, Wan Ahmad, who had served in public service for 29 years, was director-general of the implementation coordination unit in the prime minister’s department.

Wan Ahmad has a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from Airlangga University in Surabaya, Indonesia, and a master’s degree in strategic and defence studies from Universiti Malaya.

He previously served as the home ministry’s secretary-general and comptroller of the Istana Negara Royal Household.

Zuki said the appointment was based on Wan Ahmad’s experience in various fields, including policy, management and services.

“I am confident that with the experience and credibility that he possesses, Wan Ahmad can shoulder the responsibilities entrusted to him to ensure public sector reform is in line with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani,” he said.

Zuki expressed his appreciation to Zulkapli Mohamed for his services as public services director-general since his appointment on Feb 27 last year.