PhD in Astrophysics, University of Otago, New Zealand. First astrophysicist in Malaysia. Formerly: established university courses in astronomy, laboratories for undergraduate and postgraduate training and promoted space sciences; with Prime Minister's Department, Malaysia, directed design and construction of National Planetarium; established Malaysia Space Science Studies Division; as Director-General, initiated National Microsatellite Programme, which produced TiungSAT-1. 1999-2002, Director, UN Office for Outer Space Affairs; 2002, set up and led National Space Agency as Director-General - directed launch of Malaysia's first astronaut, established National Space Centre and Observatory; since 2007, current position; 2009, Deputy Director-General, UN Office, Vienna. Author of numerous academic papers on astrophysics, sustainable development and management. Fellow, several professional bodies.