The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) is set to welcome a new chief soon, as a decision has reportedly been made regarding the leadership transition.

It is understood that the Armed Forces Council convened last week to finalize the appointment of the new armed forces chief, who will succeed Mohammad Ab Rahman. Mohammad’s current service contract is nearing its end.

The proposed candidate for the position has been submitted to Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, who holds the role of field marshall of the armed forces, for approval.

According to sources, the formal announcement is expected shortly, with the handover ceremony anticipated by the end of the month.

Mohammad Ab Rahman, who hails from the army branch, took on the role of MAF chief on September 6, 2023. He has been serving on an extended contract since surpassing the mandatory retirement age in March of the previous year.

While official details remain under wraps, there are indications that the incoming chief may not be selected from among the current leaders of the three MAF branches—the army, navy, and air force. Instead, a highly accomplished three-star general with international mission experience and proficiency in several foreign languages is rumored to be the chosen candidate.

Additionally, claims of imminent changes in the leadership of the army, Royal Malaysian Navy, and Royal Malaysian Air Force were dismissed as inaccurate.