Malaysian Armed Forces ATM new two-star female officer Fadzlette Othman Merican

Tahniah! The ATM's newest two-star female general is conferred her rank insignia by Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid and Chief of Army General Zulkiple. Photo: Bernama

[Correction: Mej Jen Datuk (Dr) Hajjah Roshidah binti Ishak was the first female to rise to the rank of Major General. The report below has been revised accordingly. Many thanks to those across the Causeway for pointing this out.]

Malaysia has a new two-star female general.

Datuk Fadzlette Othman Merican Idris Merican, the Press Secretary to Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, was promoted to Major General yesterday.

DPM Zahid joined General Tan Sri Zulkiple Kassim, Chief of Army, in placing the two-star epaulettes onto the uniform of Malaysia's newest general. The ceremony took place at the DPM's office.

The Angkatan Tentera Malaysia (Malaysian Armed Forces) has shown itself to be more progressive than most ASEAN armed forces when it comes to nurturing career pathways for females in the military. It is estimated that female soldiers make up about 30% of ATM personnel.

You may also like:

Malaysian Armed Forces senior commanders with unique pedigree. Click here