KUALA LUMPUR – The Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) has named Datuk Mohamed Shamir Abdul Aziz as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 23.
This follows the departure of Dr Syed Alwi Mohamed Sultan, who had served as CEO since July 2025. In a statement, HRD Corp expressed its gratitude to Dr Syed Alwi for his leadership and contributions throughout his tenure, noting the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
“HRD Corp extends its appreciation to Dr Syed Alwi Mohamed Sultan for his leadership and contributions, acknowledging the lasting impact of his work with the organisation,” a statement read.
Mohamed Shamir brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Previously, he served as the Managing Director of Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), a national microfinance institution.
Under his leadership, AIM achieved a near-perfect repayment rate of 99.98% and reached a full 100% repayment rate in 2025. His tenure was marked by success in strengthening the institution’s operations and advancing inclusive socio-economic development.
His appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance HRD Corp’s focus on skills development, workforce training, and human capital sustainability.
Shamir holds a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), which further enhances his expertise in policy planning, sustainable development, and cross-sector collaboration.
The formal handover ceremony was held at the Human Resources Ministry (Kesuma) in Putrajaya, with Human Resources Minister Ramanan Ramakrishnan officiating. Senior officials, including Secretary-General Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof, were also present for the event. The leadership transition is effective immediately, with no interim arrangements announced.
In his message posted on Instagram, Minister Ramanan congratulated Mohamed Shamir on his appointment, praising his exceptional leadership at AIM.
“I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to Datuk Mohamed Shamir Aziz on his appointment as CEO of HRD Corp,” he said.
“During his eight years leading AIM, he demonstrated outstanding leadership, achieving a 99.98% repayment rate and an impressive 100% repayment rate in 2025.”
Ramanan also acknowledged AIM’s success in winning the Market Leadership (Microfinance) category at the 2025 Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA), bringing international recognition to Malaysia’s microfinance sector and socio-economic development efforts.
He expressed confidence that Shamir’s leadership, integrity, and vision would effectively guide HRD Corp, bolstering the nation’s talent development initiatives, enhancing workforce skills, and advancing the goals of Malaysia MADANI—an inclusive and sustainable growth framework.
Mohamed Shamir’s appointment is expected to further HRD Corp’s mission to address national workforce priorities and meet evolving labour market demands. – January