In a statement today, HRD Corp said Rusli’s appointment reflects the agency’s commitment to strengthening its mandate in driving skills development, workforce training and human capital sustainability.

This is also in line with national priorities and the evolving needs of employers and the workforce.

HRD Corp said Rusli has more than 32 years of public sector experience and previously served as the Malaysia Co-operative Societies Commission’s (SKM) CEO from 2022 to 2025.

It said SKM recorded encouraging growth under Rusli’s leadership, with the total assets of co-operatives under SKM estimated at RM186 billion as of December 2025, reflecting the cooperative sector’s significant role in the nation’s socioeconomic development.

HRD Corp added that intensified awareness and promotional programmes saw more than 1,000 cooperatives register under SKM for the first time in 2024.