Foreign Affairs Ministry appoint Ahmad Idham as cultural secretary, Eizlan Yusof as creative advisor

1 Nov 2021

By Farah Salim

KUALA LUMPUR: Dr Ahmad Idham Ahmad Nadzri and Datuk Seri Eizlan Yusof have been appointed as Cultural Secretary and Creative Advisor, respectively, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ office.

Its minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah said their appointments take effect today (Nov 1).

“Ahmad Idham, a former Chief Executive Officer of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), has extensive experience in Malaysia's creative industry for more than 25 years, including an international award at the Chunsa Korea

Film Festival in 2018.

“Meanwhile, Eizlan whose name is familiar in the industry has served in various capacities and won multiple local and international awards,” he said in a statement today.

According to Saifuddin, their appointments align with the objective of developing Malaysia's Cultural Diplomacy under the Foreign Policy Framework which aims to establish new avenues to project our national identity and values, besides showcasing our commitment to diversity and multiculturalism and to promote cultural outreach and exchanges.

“Towards promoting Cultural Diplomacy, an Arts and Culture Committee (ARCA) will be formed under the Minister's office to strengthen efforts in positioning Malaysia's arts as an effective avenue to promote the nation's historical and cultural heritage.

“I am confident that Ahmad Idham and Eizlan will execute their responsibilities with dedication and success.”