Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak

Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak is a senior Malaysian civil servant and diplomat who has served as the Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Head of State) of Perak since 2021. His distinguished career spans decades in the Malaysian Civil Service, including key roles as the Secretary to the Prime Minister and as the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang. He is recognized for his administrative acumen and his service under several Prime Ministers.

Early life and education

Ahmad Fuzi was born in 1944 in Kuala Kangsar, a royal town in the state of Perak. He received his early education in his home state before pursuing higher studies at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, which laid the foundation for his entry into the Malaysian Administrative and Diplomatic Service.

Career in the civil service

Joining the civil service in 1968, Ahmad Fuzi held various positions within the Prime Minister's Department. His early postings included serving as a district officer in Kuala Selangor and later in Kuala Kangsar. He rose through the ranks, holding significant positions such as the Deputy Secretary-General in the Ministry of Home Affairs and later as the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In this diplomatic role, he was involved in key international engagements with organizations like ASEAN and the United Nations.

Governorship of Penang

In 2001, Ahmad Fuzi was appointed as the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang, succeeding Abdul Rahman Abbas. His tenure, which lasted until 2021, was marked by stability and ceremonial leadership during the administrations of several Chief Ministers, including Koh Tsu Koon and Lim Guan Eng. As Governor, he presided over state functions and represented Penang at official events, fostering ties with other states and foreign delegations.

Secretary to the Prime Minister

On 1 January 2018, Ahmad Fuzi was appointed as the Secretary to the Prime Minister, serving as the principal link between the Prime Minister's Office and the civil service. He served in this critical role under Prime Ministers Najib Razak and Mahathir Mohamad, managing the administrative machinery during a period of significant political transition following the 2018 Malaysian general election. He held this post until his appointment as Head of State of Perak.

Head of state of Perak

Following the ascension of Sultan Nazrin Shah to the throne, Ahmad Fuzi was appointed as the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Perak on 15 January 2021. In this role, he performs the constitutional duties of the state's head of state, including appointing the Menteri Besar and presiding over the Perak State Legislative Assembly. His appointment was welcomed by state leaders, including Saarani Mohamad.

Personal life

Ahmad Fuzi is married to Norizan Mohd Kassim. He is known for his dedication to public service and maintains a low public profile. His career is often cited as a model within the Malaysian Civil Service, exemplifying a path from administrative officer to the highest ceremonial offices in the Malaysian states. Category:1944 births Category:Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Perak Category:Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang Category:Malaysian civil servants Category:University of Malaya alumni