Shamsul, who is currently director-general of the Prime Minister’s Department’s public private partnership unit, will take over the post from Zuki Ali, whose tenure ends on Aug 11.

Zuki has been serving as chief secretary since Dec 31, 2019. He was expected to retire on Aug 10, 2022, but was given a two-year contract extension.

In a statement, the PMO said that Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim had consented to Shamsul’s appointment.

It also said that Shamsul brings 30 years of experience in the civil service, having previously served in the finance ministry, the public service department and various state government administrations.

The 55-year-old holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Tulsa and has additional training from the University of Cambridge and the European Institute of Business Administration, it added.

The PMO also said the government extends its deepest appreciation and gratitude to Zuki for his service throughout his tenure as chief secretary to the government.

“His efforts in strengthening the public service delivery system, particularly through the introduction of various reforms, have been instrumental in successfully advancing the national development agenda.”