Shaping National Policy Across Sectors

By: Norul Hanizan Hazin, Alumni Centre

From a fisheries science graduate to a key figure shaping policy at the highest levels of the civil service, the journey of one Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) alumnus illustrates how dedication, perseverance, and consistent strategic leadership in nation-building can evolve in national influence.

That alumnus is Dato’ Razali Mohamad. Beginning his career in fisheries management before rising through the ranks of Malaysia’s civil service, he today plays a key role in national policy planning and governance across several strategic ministries.

Dato’ Razali is a graduate of Universiti Pertanian Malaysia Terengganu Branch (now known as Universiti Malaysia Terengganu), who obtained a Bachelor of Science (Fisheries) in 1995. To better understand national development in a broader context, he later pursued further studies at Vanderbilt University, obtaining a Master’s degree in Economic Development. This international exposure broadened his perspective on development policy and strengthened his analytical ability to balance on-the-ground realities with macroeconomic strategies.

He first worked at  the Economic Planning Unit under the Prime Minister’s Department, where he was directly involved in national development planning. This role introduced him to formulation and implementation of policies that have far-reaching impacts on the country’s economy and society.

He subsequently served at the Ministry of Finance Malaysia, overseeing the National Budget. The role required precision, integrity, and strategic judgment to ensure the country’s fiscal planning was carried out sustainably and effectively.

He was later appointed Deputy Secretary-General in several key ministries. These included the Ministry of Transport Malaysia, where he oversaw organisational management and governance, and the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change, which focuses on sustainability and climate change issues.

He currently serves as Deputy Secretary-General (Plantation and Commodities) at the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities, leading policy planning and monitoring within the commodities sector.

Beyond work, Dato’ Razali also serves as a Board Member in several statutory bodies and strategic agencies, such as the Malaysian Cocoa Board, the Malaysian Rubber Board, and the Malaysian Forest Research Institute. These appointments reflect the trust placed in his expertise, integrity, and ability to ensure transparent and effective governance.

He is also active in sports and community activities, including serving as a Standing Committee Member (Finance and Management) of the Football Association of Malaysia. This balance between professional responsibility and social contribution reflects a well-rounded leadership ethos.

Dato’ Razali’s journey demonstrates that success in national leadership does not happen overnight. It is built through experience, continuous learning, and a strong commitment to entrusted responsibilities. His career illustrates how each step can lay the foundation for greater responsibilities.

For UMT alumni and students, his story serves as a powerful reminder that with discipline, integrity, and the willingness to keep growing, every individual has the potential to make a meaningful impact on the nation.