Human Resource Development Among Key Priorities for New Chief of Defence Forces

Newly appointed Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Lieutenant General Datuk Mohd Nizam Jaffar, has emphasized human resource development as a key priority in strengthening the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).

He stated that workforce management is crucial to ensuring the continued enhancement of the three branches of MAF—the Malaysian Army (TD), the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM), and the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM).

“Taking on this role is my biggest challenge, including managing public perception. My goal is to build upon the progress already achieved and elevate it to the next level,” he said in a statement.

Mohd Nizam officially assumed office as the 23rd Chief of Defence Forces today, succeeding General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, who retired after nearly four decades of service. He is the second individual to be appointed as CDF from outside the existing service chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, following the late General Tun Ibrahim Ismail, the third CDF.

He highlighted the importance of making MAF a more open and dynamic organization, allowing the public to better understand its role and operations.

“The MAF will also promote the ‘Whole of Government, Whole of Society’ (WoGoS) concept. Additionally, we will reassess how the defense industry can integrate into Malaysia’s broader industrial landscape,” he added.