KUALA LUMPUR, January 31, 2025 – Malaysia’s 23rd Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Datuk Haji Mohd Nizam Jaffar, officially took command of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) today in a prestigious handover ceremony at Wisma Pertahanan, Kuala Lumpur.The transition of power saw outgoing Chief of Defence Forces, General Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Mohammad Ab Rahman, formally passing the leadership baton to General Mohd Nizam Jaffar, with Malaysia’s Defence Minister, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, witnessing the historic event.

The transition of power saw outgoing Chief of Defence Forces, General Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Mohammad Ab Rahman, formally passing the leadership baton to General Mohd Nizam Jaffar, with Malaysia’s Defence Minister, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, witnessing the historic event.

A New Era for Malaysia’s Military Leadership

This handover marks the retirement of General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman, who dedicated 38 years of service to strengthening Malaysia’s defence capabilities. Under his leadership, the ATM saw advancements in national security strategies, operational readiness, and regional defence cooperation.

The ceremony included the signing of the official handover documents, symbolizing the transition of command, followed by a street lining event where military personnel paid tribute to the outgoing CDF in a final salute.

A Bright Future Under General Mohd Nizam Jaffar

As the new Chief of Defence Forces, General Mohd Nizam Jaffar is expected to lead the ATM into a new era of modernization, strategic defence planning, and military readiness. His vast experience and leadership skills are set to enhance Malaysia’s national security framework and reinforce the country’s military standing in the region.

Read Also: Breaking Tradition: The Appointment of General Mohd Nizam Jaffar as Malaysia’s Chief of Defence Force

Top Military Officials in Attendance

The event was attended by high-ranking military leaders, including:
✅ Deputy Chief of Army, Lt Gen Dato’ Tengku Muhammad Fauzi Tengku Ibrahim
✅ Western Field Commander, Lt Gen Dato’ Seri Muhammad Huzaimi Sabri
✅ Eastern Field Commander, Lt Gen Dato’ Mohd Sofi Md Lepi
✅ Army Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Dato’ Zaidan Atan

As Malaysia’s defence sector enters a new chapter, all eyes are on General Mohd Nizam Jaffar to lead with strength, vision, and strategic foresight, ensuring that the ATM remains a formidable force in the region.