Ahmad Razif replaces Ahmad Said as Terengganu Menteri Besar

Razif, 49, took up the oath as menteri besar before the Sultan of Terengganu, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin at Istana Syarqiyyah at 9.18pm today.

The holder of a Master's of Science degree in Guidance and Counselling from Universiti Putra Malaysia, Razif was at one time state Education, Higher Studies, Science and Technology and Human Resources Committee chairman and Terengganu Umno information chief.

When met by reporters, Razif said he was grateful that the transfer of power was smooth and gave his assurance he would continue with all the programmes that had been planned by Ahmad for the good of the people.

"I thank Datuk Seri Ahmad Said who has taught me a lot. I can use many of my experiences with him in carrying out my duties and responsibilities," he said.

Razif, who is Kuala Nerus UMNO division chief, was the division's committee member (2001-2004), Kuala Nerus UMNO Youth vice-chief (2001-2004)and state UMNO Youth education bureau deputy chairman (2004-2008).

Razif contested for the Seberang Takir state seat in the 12th general election (2008), defeating Muzasseq Asassyunzelfuzam (PKR) with a 2,430-vote majority.

He defended the seat by beating Zakaria Dagang (PAS) with a 1,510-vote majority in the 13th general election. He is married to Toh Puan Halina Zakaria and they have four children.

Razif, from Kampung Baru, Seberang Takir, and the son of a religious teacher, was born on Nov 7, 1965.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in a statement in the federal capital, said the appointment was in line with Requirement (1) Article 10 of the State Constitution, read together with paragraph (a) under Requirement (2) Article 14.