Lt Gen Malik, who was due to retire this year, currently serves as the National Security Advisor along with his role as DG ISI.
Lt Gen Malik was appointed in September 2024 as the spy chief. His appointment being announced by the government through state-run Pakistan Television (PTV) – a departure from earlier practice, as such high-profile appointments were typically announced by the Prime Minister’s Office or the military’s media wing.
Appointed as DG ISI at 59, Lt Gen Malik is regarded as one of the Pakistan Army’s most capable officers, particularly in operational command.
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Prior to taking office as DG ISI, he served as the Adjutant General at the Army’s General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, and would oversee military administrative affairs, including legal and disciplinary matters, for three years.
He has commanded an infantry division in Balochistan and an infantry brigade in South Waziristan, both regions that have been focal points of security challenges for nearly two decades.
He is also a recipient of the prestigious Sword of Honour, awarded to the top cadet of his course.
His academic background includes serving as chief instructor at the National Defence University (NDU) and as an instructor at the Command and Staff College in Quetta.
Lt Gen Malik is the son of retired Lieutenant General Ghulam Muhammad Malik, who held prominent positions during his career in the 1990s.
A graduate of Fort Leavenworth (USA) and the Royal College of Defence Studies (UK), Malik has also held key positions in the Military Operations Directorate.
Retired Lieutenant General Naeem Khalid Lodhi described him as a “quiet yet highly respected officer”.
“Even as the Adjutant General, he did substantial work for the welfare of retired soldiers, particularly concerning pensions and other related issues,” said Gen Lodhi.
Lt Gen Malik’s tenure as Adjutant General coincided with major political events, including the arrest of ousted prime minister Imran Khan and subsequent unrest, including May 9 protests.
Founded in 1948, the ISI remains Pakistan’s premier intelligence agency.