SINGAPORE - The 64-year-old Singapore Muslim Women's Association (PPIS) has appointed its first male CEO.

He is Mr Mohd Ali Mahmood, 49, and has been with PPIS for over 16 years. He was previously PPIS' senior director of social services, overseeing its family services and student care centres, its training and consultancy unit and the Family Therapy Institute (FTI), which addresses domestic issues.

"PPIS believes his leadership will motivate more gentlemen to be a part of the global #heforshe movement," said PPIS in a press release on Thursday (May 5).

The "HeForShe" campaign, spearheaded by United Nations Women in 2014, aims to galvanise men to also play their part in the fight for gender equality.

PPIS president, Madam Rahayu Mohamad said that Mr Mohd is "the people's leader in many aspects", particularly in family and women's issues.

She added: "He is well versed and has been part of the on-going work for women in his time at PPIS."

Mr Mohd, who has been Acting CEO since January, replaces Madam Maznah Masop, who has held the position since 2009.

yuensin@sph.com.sg