Anis Rizana appointed new customs DG

Anis Rizana Mohd Zainudin @ Mohd Zainuddin made history by becoming the first woman director-general of the customs department.

Her appointment takes effect on Sept 25, announced Chief Secretary to the Government Mohd Zuki Ali in a statement today.

He said Anis, 54, formerly the finance ministry deputy secretary-general of treasury (investment), has extensive experience in various fields, including investment, import-export, research and policy development, economics, management, and finance.

She was appointed to replace Zazuli Johan, who retired.

"This appointment is the first for a female civil servant to assume the position of director general of customs, customs department.

"I believe that with her experience and credibility, Anis is able to lead an agency that is very important in collecting revenue for the government," said Zuki.

Anis has been with the Malaysian civil service for 29 years, with the first position as assistant secretary at the finance division of the finance ministry in 1994.

She holds a bachelor's degree in business administration from Western Michigan University, USA, and a master's degree in business administration from Universiti Putra Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Zuki expressed the government's appreciation and gratitude to Zazuli for his service and dedication to public service, especially during his tenure as director-general of the customs department.