First Chinese lieutenant-general only set to retire next year

Lieutenant General Johnny Lim Eng Seng has made history as the first senior Chinese officer in the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) to be promoted to the rank of lieutenant general.

Online portal Free Malaysia Today quoted Lim as clarifying that he is up for retirement in January next year, contrary to news reports that he had already retired.

Lim reportedly said that although his promotion was reported in June, the appointment was backdated as it had to go through a process before the official ceremony.

“So, by the time I retire next year, I will have served 10 months as lieutenant general,” he was quoted as saying.

Defence Minister Khaled Nordin earlier today said he received a courtesy call from Lim at Wisma Pertahanan.

“Lieutenant general Johnny Lim Eng Seng, in June, made history as the first Chinese officer to wear the rank of lieutenant general in the MAF.

“On behalf of the government and the Defence Ministry, I express our appreciation to him for his service and contributions to the country and the military.

“I hope he will continue contributing to the nation in his own capacity. Thank you, general, and best wishes for your retirement,” said Khaled in a statement.

Lim, a Malacca native, received his early education at St Francis Primary School from 1973 to 1978 and continued at St Francis Secondary School from 1979 to 1983.

He joined the 25th intake of the Regular Commissioning Course (TJT 25) and later underwent military training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom before being commissioned into the Royal Ranger Regiment.

The MAF said Lim’s promotion reflected the government’s commitment to the principles of meritocracy and inclusivity in recruitment and career advancement.

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