KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 30 — The Malaysian ambassador to the United States, Datuk Othman Hashim, has been appointed the new secretary-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs effective September 1.

Othman, 58, succeeds Tan Sri Mohd Radzi Abdul Rahman whose tenure of service ends tomorrow.

The Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa, said the appointment was made based on Othman’s experience and knowledge especially in foreign relations when he was posted abroad while serving in the ministry.

“I believe his experience, knowledge and credibility will enable him to lead the Foreign Ministry in ensuring that Malaysia’s foreign relations and sovereignty are always protected.

“In addition, I have full confidence that he will be able to implement Malaysia’s marketing and rebranding strategy abroad more effectively besides stating Malaysia’s views clearly on issues at the international level through his proactive diplomatic approach,” Ali said in a statement here today.

Ali expressed his deep appreciation and gratitude to Mohd Radzi for his contributions and deeds throughout his service particularly during his three-year tenure as the secretary-general of the ministry.

Othman, who has a Bachelor of Economics degree from the University of Malaya, began his career as an Administrative and Diplomatic Service officer on November 26, 1979 and has served the government for 33 years.

He had served as Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva in 2009 before being appointed the Malaysian ambassador to the US in February last year.

In addition, he had also served as Malaysia’s ambassador to the Czech Republic and had served as ministry deputy secretary-general in the Bilateral Relations Division as well as in the Management Services Division, besides serving as divisional secretary (Policy Planning). — Bernama