KUALA LUMPUR: Former Defence Intelligence director-general Lt-Jen (Rtd) Datuk Ahmad Norihan Jalal has been appointed Malaysia’s new facilitator for the Southern Thailand Peace Dialogue Process, replacing Datuk Mohd Rabin Basir.
The National Security Council (NSC) said the government was confident that Ahmad Norihan’s experience, credibility and leadership would strengthen Malaysia’s role as a facilitator trusted by all parties, while giving fresh momentum to the dialogue through a more comprehensive, solution-oriented approach.
It said Ahmad Norihan, the 17th former director-general of Defence Intelligence, had more than 33 years of experience in the Armed Forces, with expertise in strategic intelligence, defence intelligence, security analysis and operational management at national and international levels.
“He began his career as a mobilised officer with the 502 Territorial Army Regiment on May 15, 1987, before joining the Royal Intelligence Corps on Oct 10, 2002.
“His leadership strengthened defence intelligence capabilities, coordinated strategic assessments and provided intelligence to support decision-making by the country’s top leadership and the Armed Forces,” the NSC said, Bernama reported.
The appointment reflected Malaysia’s continued commitment to facilitate constructive dialogue in support of efforts to achieve a peaceful, comprehensive and lasting resolution in southern Thailand, it said.
“The government also expresses its deepest appreciation and gratitude to Mohd Rabin, who has completed his service,” it said.
Malaysia has facilitated talks between the Thai government and the Barisan Revolusi Nasional since 2013, over a conflict that escalated in January 2004 in Narathiwat, Yala, Pattani and parts of Songkhla.
High-level talks were last held in December, but Thailand later put the dialogue on hold following the deaths of soldiers.
