Before entering politics in the 2001 general election, Maliki was an assistant professor at the National University of Singapore's Department of Social Work and Psychology.

[6] Following the 2011 general election, in addition to his portfolio at the Ministry of National Development, he also became Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence and Mayor of the South East District.

[7] In February 2013, Maliki launched a commemorative publication titled "The Making of Wisma Geylang Serai", and a design competition for the new civic centre.

[8] Maliki was tasked with chairing the workgroup on "Recognition and Benefits for NS" as part of the Committee on Strengthening National Service at the Ministry of Defence.

[9] Following the 2015 general election, Maliki was promoted to Senior Minister of State for Defence and Foreign Affairs on 1 October 2015, relinquishing his previous post at the Ministry of National Development.