PUTRAJAYA (Aug 5): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim acknowledged on Monday that the retirement of Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali marks the departure of a crucial ally and pillar of the civil service.

Addressing the monthly assembly of the Prime Minister’s Department, Anwar said this gathering would be Mohd Zuki’s final one in his role as chief secretary to the government.

“I am grateful that since my appointment as prime minister, I have had the privilege of being supported not only by a valued friend in administration but also by a crucial pillar of public service, Tan Sri Mohd Zuki. This assembly marks his last official event as KSN,” he said.

Anwar commended Mohd Zuki for his unwavering dedication since he first assumed office in November 2022, noting that the Mohd Zuki’s consistent advice, suggestions and insights have been crucial to both public service and the nation.

“I hold deep appreciation and gratitude towards him, as despite having served the previous prime minister, he has consistently performed his duties with remarkable professionalism,” Anwar added.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, commended Mohd Zuki for his unwavering professionalism, noting that he worked regardless of the time and whenever his services were needed, even on weekends.

“I don’t intend to offer excessive praise, but this is simply the truth,” Anwar said.

“Whenever there was an issue, I would call or text him directly. He exemplifies a public servant who never appears weary or makes excuses, but instead seeks solutions with utmost dedication.

The prime minister said that the country’s progress, including the advancement of the Madani Economy, the strengthening of the ringgit, the influx of foreign investment, and the execution of various projects, would not have been possible without the commitment of civil servants.

He said that Mohd Zuki’s services and dedication will be remembered and urged other civil servants to follow his example in their own contributions to public service.

When met by reporters afterwards, Anwar said Mohd Zuki’s successor would be announced in the near future.

“There is no candidate name yet, but an announcement will be made in the near future.”

Mohd Zuki, 62, has served as chief secretary to the government since his appointment on Dec 31, 2019. He was reappointed for a two-year term on a contract basis, from Aug 11, 2022, to Aug 10, 2024.

Mohd Zuki, who graduated from Singapore’s Nanyang University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, had previously served in the Finance Ministry, Education Ministry, Rural and Regional Development Ministry, Home Ministry, and Natural Resources and Environment Ministry.

He has also served at the Istana Negara and the Prime Minister’s Department, and has held positions as Sarawak’s federal secretary and secretary-general of the Defence Ministry.

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