THE government has approved the appointment of Mr Shaharuddin bin Mohamed Som as Malaysia’s new ambassador to Myanmar.

The 52-year-old career diplomat is replacing Mr Cheah Sam Kip, who left Myanmar in September after completing a three-year posting, said a notice released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 28.

Mr Shaharuddin previously served as Malaysia’s ambassador to Zimbabwe,the notice said.

During a diplomatic career that has spanned more than 26 years, Mr Shaharuddin has also served in various capacities at Malaysian embassies in Vienna and Bangkok.

He also served as his country’s deputy ambassador to the United Nations Science and Cultural Organisation, the notice said.