KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Dr Suzana Idayu Wati Osman has been appointed as the first female director-general of Felda, succeeding Datuk Amiruddin Abdul Satar who retired on Oct 14.
In a statement today, Felda said Suzana's appointment reflects the recognition of the role of women in driving the country's economic development.
This move aligns with the government's aspirations to empower women's participation in all sectors as key drivers of the country's future.
"Suzana has extensive experience in the plantation industry, having joined Felda as an administrative officer in 1998, later serving as the Head of the Investment Department in 2008.
"She then joined FGV Holdings Bhd (FGV) as the deputy group chief executive officer and held several key positions at FGV before becoming the chief investment officer at the Social Security Organisation.
"Her leadership is backed by over three decades of experience in various sectors including banking, finance, investment, and institutional asset management.
"She has also served in senior management and board roles in more than 35 entities both locally and internationally," it said.
Additionally, Suzana previously chaired the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) and was a board member of Felcra.
"Her contribution as MSPO chairperson highlighted her commitment to the industry and sustainable management, which is crucial in ensuring that Felda continues to drive sustainability while balancing economic growth and environmental preservation," said the statement.
Suzana is also a board member of Felda and its subsidiaries, including FGV Holdings, MSM Holdings, and Encorp Bhd.
She chairs IIUM Holdings Berhad and serves as a board member at the Private Pension Administrator Malaysia.
She holds a PhD and Master's degree in Finance from Universiti Putra Malaysia, a Business Studies degree from Huddersfield University, UK, and has completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School, USA.
"With her blend of academic qualifications, local and international experience, and strategic leadership, she is expected to strengthen FELDA's strategies and competitiveness," it added.
Felda also expressed confidence that Suzana's appointment will lead the organisation to new achievements and bring lasting positive impact to the 112,638 settler families and future generations across the country.