Dr Zufar Yadi Brendan Abdullah is a member of the Social Development Council (SDC) Sarawak, Malaysia and a professional member of the International Society of Substance Use Professionals. Prior to that, Dr Zufar has four decades of public statutory functions, community development, training, and human resource development at various ministries and departments at the state, divisional and district levels in the Sarawak Public Service, and continuing education management experience in life-long learning education and training institutions.

He was the Executive Secretary of SDC between 2016 and 2024, and the Sarawak Early Childhood Development Council between 2004 and 2010. His contribution was instrumental in transforming the Sarawak Social Development Framework through social research to provide evidence-based input to influence effective social policies; social program development; and integrated social intervention activities and action plans for vulnerable groups affected by social issues, including children, women, special needs, people with disabilities, and the elderly. Between 2022 and 2024, Dr Zufar supported UNICEF Malaysia to conduct research on a wellbeing index for children, to develop a social protection program, and to promote child friendly city initiatives in Sarawak.

Dr Zufar holds a Doctor of Philosophy and a Master of Science from the United Kingdom, and a Bachelor of Social Sciences and Humanities from Malaysia in the field of social and community development planning, monitoring and evaluation. His area of interests includes addressing social issues related to children’s rights, such as decriminalisation for drug use, statelessness, child marriage and pregnancy, sexual crimes against children, child protection and wellbeing, school dropout, special needs, and early childhood development.

In addition to his professional work, Dr Zufar is also actively involved in various community and voluntary initiatives aimed at promoting social development, education, capacity building, and youth empowerment. He has served as a mentor and advisor for numerous children and youth programs and projects and has worked closely with local communities to address social issues and promote sustainable development.

Dr Zufar's dedication to social development and his commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable groups have earned him recognition and respect both nationally and internationally. He continues to be a strong advocate for social justice, equality, and human rights, and remains committed to making a positive impact on society through his work.