KUALA LUMPUR — The Zakat Collection Centre – Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (PPZ-MAIWP) today announced the appointment of Datuk Ahmad Azam Ab Rahman as the new Chairman of PPZ-MAIWP, effective from April 21, 2026 until December 31, 2028.
His appointment is a strategic step to ensure the continuity of PPZ-MAIWP’s leadership, particularly in strengthening zakat and waqf collection functions in a more structured and innovative manner for the well-being of the ummah. He fills the vacancy previously held by Datuk Seri Amrin Awaluddin, who completed his service on February 14, 2026.
Ahmad Azam, 66, is a prominent figure in humanitarian activities, international diplomacy, and community development. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Indiana State University and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Stephen F. Austin State University.
Throughout his career, he has served in various roles in several organisations, including MARA, the Institute of Strategic and International Studies, as well as a lecturer at the Institute for Islamic Studies.
Among the highlights of his career and major contributions are:
- NGO and Community Leadership: President of Wadah Pencerdasan Umat Malaysia (WADAH) and former President of the Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (ABIM).
- Global Humanitarian Missions: Founder of Global Peace Mission (GPM) Malaysia, leading missions in more than 30 countries affected by conflict and disasters.
- Diplomacy and Human Rights: Served as Commissioner of the OIC Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission (2019–2025) and is currently a Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (SUHAKAM).
- Policy Contribution: Serves as Special Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
- Awards and Recognition: Received the Darjah Setia Pangkuan Negeri (D.S.P.N.) award carrying the title “Dato’” in 2021, the Federal Territories Maulidur Rasul Special Individual Award in 2023, as well as international recognition from the Cambodian government through the Royal Order of Monisaraphon Moha Sena (2015) and the Royal Order of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Commander (2012).
The Board of Directors, management team, and staff of PPZ-MAIWP extend their congratulations on the appointment of Ahmad Azam and are confident that his vast experience and strategic leadership will further strengthen governance continuity and the effectiveness of zakat and waqf collection operations in the Federal Territories. —Bernama
